Your approach to creating fills...go!

[ambissonnett]

Hey guys,
My band has been working on some new songs and on one of our new tracks there's a lot of space for some bass fills. I'm curious as to how you write them. I've never been the best at improvisation, so advice is appreciated.

 

[Bassic Playing]

Well, if it's just on the one song, work out which notes sound great as a fill, and then just subtly vary that throughout the song.

Just watch you don't go overboard.

 

[kenneffdupriest]

Just feel it out. Or up. Maybe you and the percussionist can share a walk, roll or run. don't over do it or try to play outside your skill level or the necessity of the tune in general. Sometimes a good fill or lead break is no more than a harmonic thump or power slide. Just be yourself and own that mutha. thank you, drive thru

 

[funkybass]

I listen to the song and hum a part that sounds good, and find the notes.

 

[Aussie Player]

I listen to the melody and sing a contrasting bassline in my head, then find the notes. Also tend to stretch the notes a long way apart to make it original and interesting.

 

[JimmyM]

I think fo something that might sound good and I play it. If it works, I keep it. If it doesn't, I try something else. Bam.

 

[Nashrakh]

Slonimsky has been a great friend in recent times if you're looking for something far-out.

 

[wmheilma]

It is a good idea to coordinate with the drummer in order to avoid filling up all that nice space with a big busy mess. Then think about where the fill is going to end up and come up with a little phrase that gets you there. Singing it first is a great suggestion! You don't want it to sound like a finger exercise.