Writing tunes on the bass

[Waspinators]

I've been trying to write riffs and licks on bass that would sorta "lead" the song, or at least provide an interesting bassline that jumps out of a song. Problem is, I just can't come up with anything more interesting than the same licks I've been playing for months. I've been listening to people like Mike Watt, Geezer, Jamerson, and Macca trying to pick out how they created their lines, but I keep drawing blanks and find myself unable to even learn half of their lines. I plan to take lessons sometime soon when my funds are a little better, but until then I'm on my own. If anyone's got any tips on writing creative songs from the bassline up, please lay it on me.

[LuckyBassPlayer]

Download a free drum machine, just type stuff into Google. Try make a reasonable sounding beat, and jam along with it. I get waaay more inspiration when playing with someone or even someTHING.

[Waspinators]

Originally Posted by LuckyBassPlayer

Download a free drum machine, just type stuff into Google. Try make a reasonable sounding beat, and jam along with it. I get waaay more inspiration when playing with someone or even someTHING.

Yeah I'm using Hydrogen but I haven't really been able to come up with more than a standard beat. I think if I had some stranger or more unique beats I'd be able to come up with some more engaging lines.

[enricogaletta]

Well for me, I can tell you that sometimes I started a tune from a bas line, sometimes just from a chord progression I like it and sometime from a melody.
So if you feel you're stuck in the bass line, than don't play it anymore, try to think about another section of the song or something that is not related with the groove you gave in mind, just think about something of new and than try to "paste" it on you previous groove or anyway a good way to merge with the bass line you already wrote.
If you need more help just let me know o write e PV, I would be glad to help you.
Cheers. Enrico
YouTube
My Album
WebSite