Finding your niche?

[bassdownlow23]

I love a variety of music. How do I find out what I want to play and really focus on? This is a rather young example, but it's the last three songs I've listened to: I like the spirited energy and fire of crushcrushcrush by Paramore, but I love the flow and feel-good energy of Many The Miles by Sara Bareilles, and I also like the edgy, dark slap & pop and raw energy in Survive by Sick Puppies. So how do I decide which direction I want to go in as a young musician?

[Ayce]

Don't pigeonhole yourself into a particular style, unless that is all you want to play. Keep expanding your horizons.
I wanted to be a metal bassist when I first started, but my first band was country. Over my rather short career, I tried to be versitile, and play many styles of music. (Jazz excluded. Not much call for it here) You can then find your own unique style that can fit many bands, and have your choice.
JME, YMMV.

[Phalex]

Back in my formative years, I listened to a lot of blues, jazz, and "world" music. All of that stuff has come in handy (and adds flavor) to the rock band I'm in now.

Bass is a voice, there's nothing wrong with being familiar with a few different accents.

[anonymous122511]

Originally Posted by bassdownlow23

So how do I decide which direction I want to go in as a young musician?

You don't decide. It'll sort itself out if you play and practice a lot and don't force it.

[Snarf]

Do it all. Don't ever limit yourself.

[joebar]

Originally Posted by jeff arddun

You don't decide. It'll sort itself out if you play and practice a lot and don't force it.

i agree. when i first started out, i was steve harris incarnate; the truth though, is that i always enjoyed swinging as well. i would rather bounce than gallop nowadays.