Online Bass Instruction with Rusty Springfield
Playing in a Band

It has been stated many times that as a bassist, we must often bury our egos and play what's best "for the song." This does not mean that we can't be creative and put our own energy into the piece.

The most important "Rules of the Road," somewhat in order, are:
1. Be a pro. Showing up to the gig on time, being musically prepared, and having a positive attitude, all count for a lot. Bandleaders will really appreciate it. You may be the greatest player of all time, but if you don't exhibit a professional attitude, you'll be doing the majority of your playing at home. If you show that you are enjoying yourself on the gig, your attitude will be contagious, and the other musicians will prefer playing with you.

2. Play your part clearly, in time, and with conviction. This is the same regardless of the type of music you are involved with. Try to "lock" with the drummer and make each piece sizzle. (In context, of course). Make the bandleader think that you really deserve a raise.

3. Always know your place in the tune. If you lose track of the form and get lost, it's probably because you are letting yourself get distracted, or just don't know the tune well enough. If the song starts derailing, they usually blame the bass player. Don't let this happen to you!

4. Know your harmonic options. Your creativity can help you to find alternate roots of chords as substitutions. You shouldn't take this idea to extremes, but in the right spot, a well executed root substitution or slight reharmonization can take the tune over the top.

5. Lastly, as bassists, we must learn to be musically "giving." We've gotta be team players. It's our job to make the front person/ band sound as good as we can possibly make them. If you can do this consistently, they will love you for it and keep calling you back. It is possible (and desirable) for the bassist to have a very strong musical personality, possess loads of chops, and still play a simple part with pride, just because that's what is needed for a particular tune. The chops will still be there when called upon, and be much more effective when used selectively.
Go to the next lesson: Soloing