Songs With The Best Bass Lines - Groove To The Rhythm
When it comes to music, the bass guitar often serves as the foundation, providing the essential rhythmic and melodic backbone that holds a song together. From funky grooves to driving rock lines, songs with the best bass lines have the power to captivate listeners and leave a lasting impact.
Author:Scarlet SunsetReviewer:Caden SteelheartJul 04, 202365.5K Shares910.3K Views
When it comes to music, the bass guitar often serves as the foundation, providing the essential rhythmic and melodic backbone that holds a song together.
From funky grooves to drivingrock lines, songs with the best bass lineshave the power to captivate listeners and leave a lasting impact.
The bass guitar adds depth, richness, and a sense of groove to the music, making it an integral part of many memorable songs across various genres.
In this article, we will explore some iconic tracks that feature outstanding bass lines, showcasing the mastery and creativity of talented bassists.
Whether you're a bass enthusiast or simply appreciate the importance of a solid low-end, these songs will undoubtedly resonate with you. Get ready to dive into a world of infectious bass lines that will make you move and groove to the rhythm.
Gorillaz – Feel Good Inc.
Gorillaz - Feel Good Inc. (Bass Cover) (Play Along Tabs In Video)
This isn't anything that should surprise you. The Gorillaz's Feel Good Inc. kicks off the playlist. Released on May 9, 2005, "Demon Days" was the first single from the band's second studio album. This bassline has achieved legendary status and is instantly recognizable by almost everybody.
The song became an international sensation. Released in 2005, it spent eight weeks at the top of the Modern Rock Tracks chart and made both the 2005 and 2006 Billboard Hot 100 year-end lists. "Feel Good Inc." was awarded platinum in Australia and double platinum in the UK.
Red Hot Chili Peppers – Can’t Stop
Red Hot Chili Peppers - Can't Stop (Bass Cover) (Play Along Tabs In Video)
You kind of knew that this was coming. I mean, if there isn't a Red Hot Chilli Peppers song on there, can you even call it a "best bassline list"? On February 3, 2003, it was made available to the public as the third single taken from their eighth studio album titled By the Way.
It was the band's ninth number one on the US Billboard Modern Rock Tracks chart, where it remained at the top for three weeks, and it reached its highest position on the Billboard Hot 100 at number 57. Without a doubt, one of the basslines that has stood the test of time in terms of recognizability.
Michael Jackson – Billie Jean
Michael Jackson - Billie Jean (bass cover with tabs in video)
We could not have been more certain that Michael Jackson would, at some point, be found on this list. Michael penned and recorded the song, and Epic Records issued it as the second single from his sixth studio album, Thriller (1982), on January 2, 1983. The album in question was published in 1982.
The song climbed to the top of the Billboard Hot 100 in only three weeks, making it Jackson's quickest-rising number one hit. It has sold more than 10 million copies around the globe.
It is also one of the singles that has sold the most copies throughout the history of music. It is possible that this bassline may go down in history as one of the most famous ones ever.
Hysteria – Muse
Muse - Hysteria [Live From Wembley Stadium]
The story of 'Hysteria' follows a man who becomes enamored with a lady that he cannot have. It is his insatiable want to be with her that is driving him completely insane. Muse published this song in 2003, and it quickly rose to the top of the charts in various nations, including the United States and the United Kingdom.
Another One Bites The Dust – Queen
Queen - Another One Bites the Dust (Official Video)
The song 'Another One Bites the Dust' has what is perhaps one of the most well-known bass lines of all time, and it will have you up and dancing as soon as it begins to play through your speakers. You "sing along" to the bass with some "bum bums," don't you think?
This song peaked at number one in the United States but only reached number seven in the United Kingdom. Given that the song is about showing resilience in the face of adversity, listening to it may be an effective way to boost one's self-assurance.
Yes – Roundabout
Yes - Roundabout (Bass Cover) (Play Along Tabs In Video)
If you've read our article titled "20 of the Hardest Songs to Play on Bass Guitar," then it's possible that you came across the band Yes's song "Roundabout." Fragile, their fourth studio album, was released in November of 1971, and the song was taken from that album.
Both vocalist Jon Anderson and guitarist Steve Howe contributed to the song's composition, and the band as well as Eddy Offord was involved in the production of the track.
On the Billboard Hot 100, it peaked at number 13, while on the Cash Box Top 100, it reached number 10. In 1973, Anderson and Howe were honored with a BMI Award for their contribution to the creation of the song.
Come Together – The Beatles
The Beatles - Come Together // BASS COVER + Play-Along Tabs
This tune was originally written by Timothy Leary in 1969, while he was running for governor of California, with the intention of using it in his political campaign. He requested that John Lennon compose a song just for him. The title word, "Come Together," is repeated many times throughout the song to serve as a call to the listeners to gather together. Leary ultimately came to the conclusion that he would not utilize the song, so The Beatles decided to add some meaningless lines to it and make it into a smash, which ultimately reached number one in the UK.
The Chicken – Jaco Pastorius
Jaco Pastorius-"The Chicken"
In his element, the jazz fusion bass guitar guru Jaco Pastorius destroys an old Pee Wee Ellis session on the Bass of Doom, using his custom-built fretless to usher in a new era of bass playing. Perhaps, you guys, this ought to have been higher up on the list.
It's a strolling, strutting piece of jazz funk that sounds intellectual on paper but ethereal in performance; it makes for a terrific jumping off place. When Pastorius is in a mellow jam mood, the bass guitar becomes a showpiece. It seems to be simple, yet...
Rio – Duran Duran (John Taylor)
Duran Duran - "Rio" Bass Tutorial with John Taylor
John Taylor has characterized Rio, with its hyper-kinetic bassline, as a love letter to the classic rhythm sections that inspired him and drummer Roger Taylor. It's the pinnacle of Duran Duran and maybe all of British pop.
With pop music, everything needs to be in sync, fastened securely, and thoroughly checked before it can be released to the public. It needs to be in order for the song to succeed, since the syncopation is terrifying and there are huge hooks to hit.
Above, you can see a video in which Taylor discusses the writing and production process behind the song. The Taylors, in an effort to pay respect to classic rhythm sections, developed into one themselves.
Ain't No Mountain High Enough – Marvin Gaye And Tammi Terrell (James Jamerson)
Ain't no mountain high enough - Isolated Bass Track
James Jamerson demonstrates sonic and spatial mastery. Jamerson's discipline and restraint serve to enhance the song's foundations, so it's frequently the parts he doesn't play that are the most impressive.
Perhaps a certain indicator of a superb musician is that they only perform on excellent tunes. Of course, this is a soul standard; it's upbeat and positive, and the music supports the singers as it should.
However, if you listen to the isolated audio up top, you'll hear how much breathing room there is in the arrangement and how the notes were carefully chosen to complement the melody. Is that Jamerson's voice? It has all the beat and soul you'd expect from classic Motown; it's warm and woody.
Tommy The Cat – Primus (Les Claypool)
Primus - Tommy The Cat (Official Music Video)
Master bassist, bassist, stoner, and winemaker. Les Claypool is the consummate modern polymath. Nobody else on the team plays like he does. While Primus' bassist Les Claypool may have looked up to Rush frontman Geddy Lee, the vivacious stage presence of Primus' lead singer influenced Lee.
Nowhere is this vision more obvious than on Tommy The Cat, when he uses strummy chords, taps, hits harmonics, and scatters well-aimed ghost notes over his performance. It calls for a steady hand and no fear in its slap-happy bass groove.
The Chain – Fleetwood Mac (John McVie)
Jaco Pastorius-"The Chicken"
The bassline in question doesn't arrive until the song completely flips direction at the conclusion, making The Chain one of the most dually effective pieces of rock music ever written. Tension from the first act is alleviated in the second, and the structure holds together.
Maybe it's because the music was stitched together from various parts. Every aspiring bassist should master McVie's bassline, which is straightforward and prominent; it was likely recorded on the Alembic Series 1 he was playing at the time; and it will surely annoy the staff at any music shop you visit.
People Also Ask
What Makes A Bass Line Memorable In A Song?
A memorable bass line is often characterized by its melodic or rhythmic complexity, its ability to enhance the overall groove and feel of a song, and its distinctiveness in complementing other musical elements. A great bass line can create a strong foundation, add depth and richness to the music, and leave a lasting impression on listeners.
Are Bass Lines Important In Popular Music?
Absolutely! Bass lines play a crucial role in popular music. They provide the backbone of a song, connecting the rhythm and harmony, and adding a powerful low-end presence. Bass lines contribute to the overall groove, feel, and energy of a track, making it impossible to imagine many popular songs without their iconic bass parts.
How Can I Learn To Play Bass Lines?
To learn to play bass lines, you can start by studying basic music theory, learning proper technique, and familiarizing yourself with different musical genres. Practice regularly, listen to songs with prominent bass lines, and try to replicate them. Taking lessons from a bass instructor or using online tutorials and resources can also help you improve your skills and develop your own unique style.
Final Thoughts
Songs with the best bass lines have a special place in the hearts of music lovers. The bass guitar brings depth, groove, and a powerful foundation to a song, elevating the overall musical experience.
From iconic basslines that have become legendary to lesser-known gems that deserve recognition, these songs showcase the artistry and skill of bass players who have left an indelible mark on the music industry.
Whether it's the funky basslines of James Brown's "Get Up (I Feel Like Being a) SexMachine," the driving bass groove of Queen's "Another One Bites the Dust," or the melodic bassline of Pink Floyd's "Money," each song has its own unique charm and demonstrates the versatility of the bass guitar.
Exploring songs with the best bass lines is not only a journey through iconic tracks but also an appreciation of the important role the bass plays in shaping the musical landscape.
So, whether you're a bass player seeking inspiration or simply a music enthusiast looking for captivating rhythms, these songs are sure to leave you impressed and inspired by the mastery of the bass guitar. Get ready to groove along and experience the power of the low end as these bass lines take you on a musical adventure.
Jump to
Gorillaz – Feel Good Inc.
Red Hot Chili Peppers – Can’t Stop
Michael Jackson – Billie Jean
Hysteria – Muse
Another One Bites The Dust – Queen
Yes – Roundabout
Come Together – The Beatles
The Chicken – Jaco Pastorius
Rio – Duran Duran (John Taylor)
Ain't No Mountain High Enough – Marvin Gaye And Tammi Terrell (James Jamerson)
Tommy The Cat – Primus (Les Claypool)
The Chain – Fleetwood Mac (John McVie)
People Also Ask
Final Thoughts
Scarlet Sunset
Author
Scarlet Sunset is a captivating and confident transgender individual who radiates sensuality and embraces her unique beauty. With a radiant smile and a touch of red lipstick, she captivates hearts by the poolside as the sun dips below the horizon, casting a warm glow on her unforgettable presence.
Despite societal norms and expectations, Scarlet celebrates her body, proudly defying conventional standards of beauty. Her curves tell a story of self-acceptance and empowerment, challenging stereotypes and inspiring others to embrace their own bodies without reservation.
Caden Steelheart
Reviewer
Caden Steelheart, an enigmatic author, weaves tales that immerse readers in the depths of sin city's underbelly. With his words as a weapon, he crafts literary masterpieces that reflect the dark and dangerous spirit of the city. Caden's writing captures the gritty essence of sin city, delving into the intricacies of its characters and the moral complexities that define their existence.
Born amidst the shadows, Caden draws inspiration from the relentless chaos and unforgiving nature of the city. His words carry the weight of experience, creating a vivid and haunting portrayal of sin city's undercurrents. Through his stories, he explores the blurred lines between right and wrong, exploring themes of power, deception, and redemption.
Caden Steelheart's literary prowess has made him a name whispered in literary circles, captivating readers with his ability to immerse them in sin city's intricately woven tapestry. With each written word, he invites readers to journey into the darker realms of the human experience, offering them a glimpse into the secrets and sins that shape the city's inhabitants. Caden Steelheart, a master of capturing the essence of sin city through his writing, continues to captivate audiences with his haunting and evocative narratives.
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