Beginner seeking advice on slap technique

[iwannalearnbass]

(My first post on this forum, how exciting)

Ok, so I've been playing guitar for quite a few years, been jamming quite frequently with some buddies (normally rock, some prog rock), and have grown fond of bass.

Picked up a Squier P Bass last week, and am trying to improve technique. Finger strength ain't much of a problem, and I know a few scales, so jamming can be fun. But I'd like to move to the next level beyond playing simple basslines and chord progressions.

I'd really really like to learn slap bass. Where I live, nobody plays slap bass (all rock) and it's difficult to find teachers. I have been watching some youtube videos and checking out various websites, but none of them are really that helpful for technique. They just tell you what to play but don't show you how to position your hands etc...I'm terrified of doing it wrong and picking up bad habits.

Any advice on where I should go from here much appreciated. Good links for technique instruction etc...I suppose I should spend the next few weeks/months doing simple slap/pop exercises before trying some tunes? Or what?

Thanks!

[iwannalearnbass]

Ok sorry I just realised there is a special section in the Technique forum dedicated to my question.

[erix]

You can try this method: Ultimate Bass by Stuart Clayton (basslines publishing).
It is very good. From beginner to expert.

Also Slap It by Tony Oppenheimer is a well-known one.

[Dmanlamius]

Hey man!

I have quite a few slap and pop tut's on youtube that people have found helpful. Have you seen them yet?

Anyway, here us the first. I hope it helps you!

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=q6AJHeYY5Hw

[iwannalearnbass]

Thanks for links guys. I'll watch your vids when I get then chance. Youtube isn't working in China for some reason this week. Damn censors.