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Playing bass chords

I

iwannalearnbass

Apr 1, 2009
86
0
#1
Hi,
I am learning Red by Crimson and was wondering whether one should play the chords with your l hand thumb supporting on the back of the neck or with the palm supporting?

I am currently trying to do it with the thumb but it gets twisty on the upper frets. My bass position is fine as far as I can tell.

Thanks.
 
#4
Having trouble with the C-E-G with root on the 15th A-string fret. Playing J-bass.

I can manage it with my thumb more or less flat on the back of the neck pointing at the headstock, but definitely not pointing toward the ceiling (as I was told).
 
#5
Honestly, dont worry about that man. You're not playing classical guitar, your form can only get you so far, but if you choke the bass like you said, it will lead to really bad habits and will cause exhaustion. Generally, I find a lot of shredders and technical players to slide their thumb so that its aiming towards the headstock anyways. The only reason people put emphasis on your thumb pointing toward the ceiling is because some people make a habit of keeping their wrist bent while playing, and can potentially hyperextend their ligaments overtime. On the same note, some people play their entire career like this and will suffer no injury. So yea, you've got the right idea playing with good form, but playing whats comfortable is really whats more important.
 

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