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Tips for avoiding bloody cuticles?

Hey AudioTaper, there is no right and wrong, there is just what works for you, period. If I'm not mistaken we listen to music, not watch music (you know what I mean). Was Jimi Hendrix wrong for playing left handed upside down? Did he not change the world? Is Jimmy Haslip wrong for playing the essentially the same way? Is he not a great bass player and musician? Stanley Jordon? On and on. Do what's right for you and own who you are. I guarantee that when you listen to a recording you have no idea if someone is using their middle finger or index finger to slap, you have no idea if they are playing right or left handed, etc... Most importantly.....does it really matter? Play the way you play and love every minute of it as that is why we play in the first place! Happy Holidays!
 
Hey AudioTaper, there is no right and wrong, there is just what works for you, period. If I'm not mistaken we listen to music, not watch music (you know what I mean). Was Jimi Hendrix wrong for playing left handed upside down? Did he not change the world? Is Jimmy Haslip wrong for playing the essentially the same way? Is he not a great bass player and musician? Stanley Jordon? On and on. Do what's right for you and own who you are. I guarantee that when you listen to a recording you have no idea if someone is using their middle finger or index finger to slap, you have no idea if they are playing right or left handed, etc... Most importantly.....does it really matter? Play the way you play and love every minute of it as that is why we play in the first place! Happy Holidays!
I would be inclined to take this guys advise. He seems to know his stuff...
 
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I'd like to thank everyone for their input and advice. Since I posted this, I've listened to a lot that was said, mainly the "lighten up" part and "work on technique" part. I've practiced a ton since then, and my touch has gotten lighter, as well as my aim has gotten better, so guess what...not a bloody cuticle to be had. That being said, there's always room for improvement, so I'll certainly hit up YouTube and check out the suggested videos on technique. Thank you all.