Noob Thumb placement question...

Akeo · #1 08-19-2006, 08:26 PM

I have been playing for awhile and i have this question. When i'm playing the top string, the E string, i have my thumb resting on the p'up. now the question is this, NORMALLY, does a bass player keep his/her thumb on the pup when dropping down to the next string The A string? or do i keep it on the pup? I have been up till now so far keeping my thumb resting on the pup playing on the E and A strings and then dropping it off the pup to use the D and G strings. Let me know if i'm wrong. Thanks everyone.

Flintc · #2 08-20-2006, 07:22 AM

Akeo:

There is a sticky thread entitled "floating thumb technique" that should tell you more than you dreamed of.

PrimusNut · #3 08-20-2006, 06:23 PM

Yeah. check out the stick thread.

I usually play with my thumb on the pup while playing E and A, then drop it E when I play D, and to A when I play G. I find that keeping my thumb 2 strings above makes it easier for me to quickly change strings while playing.

You shouldn't worry about if its how a bassist normally plays. If it feels right for you, than play like that. Sure, there are "proper" ways to play, but watch any famous bassist, most of them only follow a few of the textbook rules, if any.
Play how you WANT to play, not how you think others will want to see you play.