Fingertips

[icarus88]

I asked while someone was answering my question, is it necessary to play with the tips of the fingers for a rock metal tone (bright)? Does it have to be the very tip or can it be the edge of the fingertips? Also, should the fingertips lick or strike the strings? I laugh with my ass at those who say that bass guitar is the simplest instrument, there is a lot to learn

 

[JimmyM]

While it’s true there’s a lot to learn, this is one of those cases where it’s up to you. I do recommend glancing blows and less effort if you want to play fast and not jack your hand, but lots of metal players dig in.

 

[icarus88]

While it’s true there’s a lot to learn, this is one of those cases where it’s up to you. I do recommend glancing blows and less effort if you want to play fast and not jack your hand, but lots of metal players dig in.

I'm already dealing with this too

 

[moody]

I spent too many years playing too hard rather than just the tips and turning up the volume, to the point that my right hand suffered. As such I now only play with a pick and I think a pick would get the tone you want,

 

[JimmyM]

I'm already dealing with this too

The one rule I live by with music is that it should never cause pain to do it. As such, I've been playing 50 years now, and I've had bouts with pain doing certain things, yet I always found a way to play without pain once it started happening AND get the exact sound I wanted. Between modifying your technique and EQ, you can do pretty much anything with safe technique.