new to bass

[psuc5b]

hey guys/gals. i've been playing guitar for about 15 years now, and drums for about 3, and yesterday i picked up my first bass. it's a squier vintage modified series p-bass with the p-bass, and j-bass pickup configuration. honestly for the cost it's really damn nice. it plays like a dream. but i digress...
my biggest concern about playing bass is that i'm going to end up just playing the thing like it's a guitar and i really hate when bassists do that. it's not interesting to listen to, and it's incredibly obvious that they're just thrashing around on the thing as opposed to doing something musical and unique. so i've gotten a start on learning how to finger pick and i was just wondering if any of you have any advice for me. even if it's just as simple "learn some songs by ______". i'll take any tips you're willing to give.
thanks in advance for taking the time to read and respond

- randy

 

[armybass]

The fact that you don't want to play bass like a guitar player and know that some people do is a very good sign and a good indication that you won't do that! :0)

 

[BassCliff]

Hi,

I also started playing guitar before bass. Luckily I didn't play that much guitar before I picked up a bass.

I started playing Beatles and Creedence (dating myself). But you might want to Google "bass lessons" and take advantage of the almost unlimited free resources on the internet. I wish you all the best. I'm glad you escaped from the dark side.

Thank you for your indulgence,

BassCliff