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From Jamerson to Spenner: A Journey Through Basslines

Preston Simmons

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Published in The Quest For The Melodic Electric Bass: From Jamerson To Spenner (Ashgate Popular And Folk Music Series)

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The bassline is one of the most important elements of popular music. It provides the foundation for the rhythm and harmony, and it can also be used to create a sense of groove or excitement.

The Quest for the Melodic Electric Bass: From Jamerson to Spenner (Ashgate Popular and Folk Music Series)

by Keisha Ervin

4 out of 5

Language	:	English
File size	:	10257 KB
Text-to-Speech	:	Enabled
Enhanced typesetting	:	Enabled
Word Wise	:	Enabled
Print length	:	251 pages
Screen Reader	:	Supported

In the early days of popular music, the bassline was often played by the tuba or the string bass. However, in the 1950s, the electric bass guitar became popular, and it quickly became the standard instrument for playing basslines.

One of the most influential bassists of all time is James Jamerson. Jamerson played on many of the Motown hits of the 1960s and 1970s, and his basslines are known for their melodicism and groove.

Another influential bassist is Larry Graham. Graham played with Sly and the Family Stone in the 1970s, and he is credited with inventing the "slap bass" technique. The slap bass technique involves slapping the strings of the bass guitar with the thumb, and it creates a percussive sound that is often used in funk and soul music.

In the 1980s and 1990s, the bassline became increasingly prominent in popular music. Bassists such as Bootsy Collins and Flea helped to popularize the use of the bass guitar as a solo instrument, and they also helped to develop new and innovative basslines.

Today, the bassline is an essential part of popular music. It continues to be used to provide the foundation for the rhythm and harmony, but it can also be used to create a sense of groove or excitement. The bassline is a versatile instrument that can be used in a variety of musical genres, and it is one of the most important elements of popular music.

Interviews with Influential Bassists

This book features interviews with some of the most influential bassists in history, including:

James Jamerson
Larry Graham
Bootsy Collins
Flea

These interviews provide a unique insight into the minds of some of the greatest bassists of all time. They discuss their influences, their techniques, and their thoughts on the role of the bassline in popular music.