"I Was Made To Love Her" technique question...

[Lichtaffen]

This song is such a challenge. For the longest time I figured the way to finger the last two measures of each 4 measure repeat was going up the neck for each arpeggio (Db, Eb, F) using the A,D and G strings, but now I'm wondering if the great James Jamerson would just play the first two arpeggios in open position and then go up the G string for the F arpeggio. It seems more logical based on some of the note selections. What do you think?

I know someone is going to say 'do what's comfortable to you', but in all due respect, that's not my question.

[JimmyM]

He might have. Jamerson used open strings and low positions whenever possible. But I wouldn't worry about it. I play it whatever's easiest for me, which is starting the Db on the A string and going up the A string with the Eb and F. Doesn't really make any difference except for historical purposes.

[Bluesy Soul]

Originally Posted by JimmyM

He might have. Jamerson used open strings and low positions whenever possible. But I wouldn't worry about it. I play it whatever's easiest for me, which is starting the Db on the A string and going up the A string with the Eb and F. Doesn't really make any difference except for historical purposes.

I agree. As well-known as James' penchants for open strings and lower positions were, it has always seemed more logical to me to walk these arpeggios up the A-string. Eventually you have to play an F3 on the G-string (10th fret) as part of the last arpeggio, and I think that's a lot easier to do that from F2 on the A string (8th fret) than from F2 on the D-string (3rd fret).

I have tremendous admiration and respect for James, of course; but I don't try to emulate his action or his string tension, either.

[Lichtaffen]

Originally Posted by Bluesy Soul

I have tremendous admiration and respect for James, of course; but I don't try to emulate his action or his string tension, either.

Agreed. I have small white man hands. I don't want to end up with carpal tunnel.