Are you a beginner bass guitarist looking to hone your skills? If you are looking for assistance in this matter, then you are in the correct location. In this post we will discuss easy bass guitar songs that are great for learning and mastering basic techniques. Whether you’re just starting out or looking for an easier challenge, these tunes make it fun and engaging as you take your playing skills up a notch! With just a few simple chords and catchy riffs, these easy bass guitar songs provide something interesting, unique, yet still attainable for any level of musician. So grab your instrument and get ready to learn some new skills with these amazing tunes!
Easy Bass Guitar Songs
Another One Bites The Dust by Queen
A great song for beginner bassists, made famous by Queen, is a classic rock tune. It’s not too difficult, but has some interesting parts that you can learn quickly. The main riff is definitely a must-learn, as it will make you stand out when playing this song on the bass.
Come Together by The Beatles
This classic Beatles song is great for bassists of all levels. The song’s main riff consists of a repeating four-note pattern and gradually progresses to more intricate licks during the chorus. It’s easy enough to learn but has plenty of room for you to add your own flair as well!
Seven Nation Army by The White Stripes
It is one of the most iconic easy bass guitar songs. It’s a great song to start with as it only uses two notes: E and A, making it an ideal choice for beginners who are just starting out on their bass playing journey. The chorus riff is played in an 8th-note groove that’s simple to learn and can be used as a building block for more advanced grooves. All you need to do is play the E note on the first beat of each bar followed by the A note on the ‘and’ of the second beat (e&a). By attempting to play this well-known song, novice bass players can experience a sense of fulfillment and bolster their self-assurance. [1]
Longview by Green Day
This classic punk-rock song is a great one to learn for beginners. The main riff only requires the E, A and D notes, so it’s relatively simple to master. Most of the progressions are just two bars long and can be repeated several times over during the course of the song. To make things even easier, some of the verses feature the same progression as the chorus, so you don’t have to worry about learning too many different parts. Longview will give you a taste for fast playing styles while still being easy enough that anyone can learn it!
Smoke on the Water by Deep Purple
An absolute classic in rock music, Smoke on The Water takes us back to 1972 when Deep Purple released their iconic anthem. One of the simplest and most recognizable riffs in rock music, it is a great one to start off your bass playing journey. It is essentially made up of four notes repeating over again; A – D – G – C (open strings on the guitar). Learning this song will give you an excellent foundation for building other songs as well, as many popular ones are also built around simple riffs like this.
Smooth Criminal by Michael Jackson
One of the most popular songs to ever grace the airwaves is Smooth Criminal by Michael Jackson, which was initially released in 1987. The bassline for this song has become a staple of many beginner’s repertoires today, as it is relatively easy and immediately recognizable. This piece has mainly quarter notes and occasional eighth notes. It can assist you in practicing beat subdivision and maintaining proper timing during playing.
Come As You Are by Nirvana
It is a great song to start learning on the bass guitar. It’s very straightforward and easy to learn, making it perfect for beginner players. Throughout the entire song, the main riff is repeatedly played using only four notes. Once you get that down, you can add in some more complex variations as you progress.
Smells Like Teen Spirit by Nirvana
If you’re a beginner in playing bass guitar, you may find this popular Nirvana song to be an excellent choice. Beginner guitarists can easily master the two-note riff with a repeating pattern. Once you have the basics down, you can work on adding more complex variations to your playing. It’s a great way to get used to playing with a band as well since it has such an iconic sound.
Californication by Red Hot Chili Peppers
This song is great for those who are just starting to play the bass guitar. The has a simple bass line consisting of only four notes that remains consistent throughout the entire song, making it easy to learn. With just some minor changes here and there, you can make the song your own and really impress your audience when playing live.
Good Times Bad Times by Led Zeppelin
This classic Led Zeppelin song is perfect for beginners looking to master the basics of bass guitar. It features a four-note riff that can be easily learned and mastered without too much difficulty. Once you have it down, you can start experimenting with different variations to really take your sound to the next level. [2]
Money by Pink Floyd
This is another great song for beginning bass guitarists. It starts with a simple four-note riff that repeats throughout the majority of the song, so it’s easy to learn and remember. However, there are some subtle variations thrown in as well, challenging you to experiment and develop your own unique style. Once you have the basics down pat, try adding in fill notes or other techniques to really make this song your own.
Walk This Way by Aerosmith
It is a great choice for beginner bass guitarists. This classic rock track features an instantly recognizable riff that has been covered by countless bands, and it’s perfect to learn the fundamentals of the instrument. The song builds up gradually with simple chords before exploding into a full-fledged rock anthem. It’s a perfect way to get familiar with chord progressions and basic techniques like palm muting and slapping. With some practice, you’ll be impressing your friends in no time!
Three Little Birds by Bob Marley
This classic track from the king of reggae is a great choice for bass guitarists. The melody progresses steadily throughout with a simple yet effective bass line that’s easy to learn and pick up. You can add some of your own flair to it by playing around with the chords or experimenting with different rhythms. With its laid back vibe, it’s sure to get everyone grooving!
Yellow by Coldplay
It is a great song for beginner bass guitar players. It is in the key of A and the song moves around between two simple chords, A major and E minor. The verse riff consists of a series of open strings played with your index finger, while the chorus uses barre chord shapes to create more complex progressions. To make it even easier, you can use an octave pedal to get some big sounding notes without having to stretch too far up or down the fretboard. With practice, Yellow can become a really fun performance piece that you can show off at jam sessions! [3]
Pumped Up Kicks by Foster The People
This song has a really great bass line that you can learn relatively quickly as a beginner. It is in the key of C and consists mainly of open strings, with some simpler barre chord shapes to spice up the chorus. The main goal here would be to get the rhythm down so that you’re playing along with the song, rather than just playing notes randomly. Once you get comfortable with your timing and accuracy of playing each note, then start exploring other parts of the fretboard for more interesting variations on the melody!
I Got You (I Feel Good) by James Brown
It is a great song for intermediate bass players. The classic upbeat rhythm and its catchy hook make it a great choice for any practice session. You can use either the root note of the chord or the fifth note to play along with the melody. This is an excellent opportunity to practice mixing up your playing styles and making different combinations of notes work together in harmony. With enough practice, you’ll be able to confidently play this tune in no time!
All About That Bass by Meghan Trainor
This song is great for beginner bass players. The very simple melody of the chorus makes it easy to learn without getting too overwhelmed. You can use either a two-note pattern or simply play along with the root note of each chord. This is a great way to get familiar with playing different patterns and recognizing chords while still playing recognizable music. Give this tune a try and you’ll be playing along in no time!
Happy by Pharrell Williams
This upbeat pop tune is perfect for intermediate bass players. It has an interesting groove that requires more advanced skills than beginners would have, but experienced players will find it fun and challenging to master. You can use various finger picking techniques, as well as incorporating hammer-ons and pull-offs to create a unique and interesting sound. Once you’ve got the hang of it, you can really have some fun experimenting with different sounds and licks! [4]
Crazy Train by Ozzy Osbourne
It is a classic hard rock song from the ’80s that can be easily played on bass guitar. It’s composed of finger-picked staccato notes, which makes it great for learning basic techniques like plucking and slapping. To play this song correctly, you need to make sure you get the timing right between picking and slapping. You could also add fills in-between chords to give the song an extra boost of energy. With practice, Crazy Train will become one of your favorite easy bass guitar songs to jam out with friends!
Otherside by The Red Hot Chili Peppers
This is another great song for beginner bass guitar players. It’s composed of a few simple but effective riffs, which makes it ideal for learning the basics of playing with a pick and slapping. When you’re ready to take it a step further, add in some fills between chords to spice up your performance. With enough practice, Otherside will become one of your go-to easy bass guitar songs!
I Want You Back by The Jackson 5
This classic hit from the 70’s is an easy bass guitar song that you can learn quickly. The main riff consists of two notes played at a steady rhythm – perfect for beginners looking to get comfortable with their instrument. To take things up a notch, try adding in some walking bass lines to give the song a more interesting sound. With consistent practice, you can master I Want You Back in no time!
Should I stay Or Should I Go by The Clash
It is an iconic song that’s perfect for a beginner on bass guitar. The song utilizes the same four-bar loop throughout and features an easy, recognizable riff. It’s a great choice to learn basic chord progressions and techniques like slides, hammer-ons, and pull-offs. [5]
La Grange by ZZ Top
This classic rock song is a great opportunity for beginning bassists to learn about blues and funk rhythms. It features an easy, four-chord progression along with simple licks and riffs that can be easily memorized. Beginners will also find the timing of the song’s bridge to be straightforward and easy to master.
Hit Me With Your Best Shot by Pat Benatar
This upbeat classic makes for a great early challenge for beginner bassists. The simple power chord riff follows a twelve-bar blues structure and uses walking bass lines to create a more complex sound. It’s not too difficult, but it allows new players to experience working with groove-based techniques like eighth notes and triplets.
Stand By Me by Ben E. King
It is an easy and fun song to learn on the bass guitar. It’s a classic rock and roll tune that can be played with just a few simple chords. The song features some great bass lines, including walking bass in the verse, and a memorable iconic hook in the chorus. With practice, even beginner level players can have this one under their belt in no time!
Wicked Game by Chris Isaac
This is another simple but effective song for the bass guitar. The bass line in this tune follows a steady 4/4 groove that makes it easy to follow. The chords are basic, and can be played with single notes or power chords. It also features some great fills and licks that will have you sounding like a pro in no time!
Sunshine Of Your Love by Cream
It is one of the most recognizable bass tunes in all of rock ‘n’ roll. The song is easy to learn and features a catchy, repetitive riff throughout the verses that will have you hooked from start to finish. It also has two bridge sections with plenty of notes for more experienced players to explore and expand upon. Whether you’re just starting out or looking for an easy but iconic tune to add to your repertoire, Sunshine Of Your Love should definitely be on your list. [6]
The Chain by Fleetwood Mac
The Chain is another great easy bass guitar song to learn. It features a simple, steady groove that doesn’t require any advanced techniques or complicated fills. The song also has plenty of open notes in the chorus that make it fun and accessible for beginners. Plus, its classic rock sound will make you feel great as you master this iconic tune.
Crazy Little Thing Called Love by Queen
This song is the perfect blend of simplicity and complexity—it can be picked up quickly by novice players but also offers plenty of room for more experienced musicians to experiment with their own ideas and interpretations. Plus, Crazy Little Thing Called Love’s upbeat rhythm makes it an absolute blast to play!
Feel Good Inc. by Gorillaz
It is a great song to start learning if you’re a beginner bass guitar player. The iconic bass line that opens the track starts with two simple notes and then builds up gradually as the song progresses, allowing for gradual mastering of this beloved tune. As one of Gorillaz most popular songs, there are plenty of tutorials online to help guide your learning. You can also find some terrific backing tracks online to play along with once you have the basics mastered. [7]
For Whom The Bell Tolls by Metallica
Metallica’s iconic track is a great choice for bass guitarists of all levels. The song opens with a simple line that gradually builds up to a complex riff, making it an ideal learning piece. As one of the most popular metal songs ever written, there are plenty of tutorials online to help you through this classic tune.
The Low Spark Of High Heeled Boys by Traffic
This progressive rock track is great for more experienced bass guitarists who want to tackle something more difficult than the previously mentioned tracks. While its main riff starts off simple enough, it quickly progresses and introduces foundation-altering techniques such as tapping and hammer-ons. Once mastered, you’ll have a great tool to add some variety and complexity in your bass guitar playing.
Billie Jean by Michael Jackson
It is an easy song to learn on the bass guitar. The main part of the song consists mostly of a single note played throughout the verse and chorus. This simple repeating pattern makes it easy for beginners to learn quickly and start playing along with the track right away.
Under Pressure by Queen
The bass line for this classic is also fairly easy to learn. The main riff consists of an eighth-note pattern that gradually accelerates throughout the song. Although it can be tricky to keep up with the tempo, the basic pattern remains consistent throughout the entire song so it should not take long for a beginner to master. [8]
Bombtrack by Rage Against The Machine
It is a great song to learn on bass guitar. It has an easily identifiable and punchy riff that can be played with just four notes: G, D, A, and E. It also includes some quick hammer-ons and pull-offs which are great for getting familiar with using slides on the fretboard. The song also features some slightly more complex sections such as the bridge breakdown section which introduces additional notes such as Bb and F. If you want to challenge yourself even further, you can try playing some of the fast punk-style octave fills during the chorus sections. All in all, Bombtrack is a great way to practice your bass guitar skills and have fun while doing it!
Pretty Fly For A White Guy by The Offspring
If you’re looking for an easy yet catchy song to learn on bass guitar, Pretty Fly For A White Guy is the perfect choice. This classic punk rock tune features a simple riff in G minor that can be played with just four notes: D, F, Bb, and E. Following this is a brief solo part which includes some fast 16th note phrases to practice your accuracy. Once you’ve got the basics down, you can also add some of the little fills scattered throughout the song which requires more advanced finger techniques such as slapping and popping.
Play That Funky Music by Wild Cherry
It is one of the most iconic and beloved easy bass guitar songs. The track is a classic funk rock anthem from 1976, and it’s perfect for beginner bassists as well. Not only does it feature an incredibly catchy melody, but its simple four-note riff makes it a great song to learn how to groove on the bass guitar. It’s also a great way to practice playing eighth notes in time since the main hook features eighth notes all the way through. With its upbeat tempo and groovy vibe, Play That Funky Music is sure to get you moving – even if you’re just starting out!
Super Freak by Rick James
If you’re looking for a classic and iconic funk song to learn, Super Freak by Rick James is definitely worth considering. The main riff is incredibly memorable and features some great syncopated rhythms which are sure to keep your head bobbing along! This track also has some great slides that are easy enough for beginning bassists to tackle – plus it’s just an all-around fun and energetic track. It’s no wonder why Super Freak has been sampled in so many songs over the years – it’s truly one of the most recognizable and beloved easy bass guitar songs out there.
21 Guns by Green Day
This popular punk-rock classic has a simple verse and catchy chorus that will have you playing along in no time. The main riff can be learned quickly, and the steady 4/4 rhythm is perfect for practicing basic eighth notes on the low E string. With its upbeat tempo and fun lyrics, 21 Guns is sure to become one of your favorite songs to play! [9]
Is It Hard to Play Bass Guitar?
Playing bass guitar isn’t hard but it does require practice and dedication to master. Some beginners may struggle with the physicality of playing, since the instrument is relatively large compared to others like the electric guitar or ukulele. You will need to develop finger independence and strength in order to press down multiple strings at once and get used to changing positions quickly for different chords. However, if you stick with it and persistently practice then you can become a great bass guitarist!
Tips on Playing Bass Guitar Songs
Playing bass guitar can be intimidating, especially for beginners. But there are some tips and tricks that can help make playing easier and more enjoyable. The first step is to find easy bass songs that you enjoy the sound of and that don’t tax your skills too much. Take an honest assessment of your current ability level before attempting a song.
It’s important not to set yourself up for failure by trying something that’s beyond your skill level; this could end up discouraging you from continuing in the long run.
Once you’ve selected a song, look into what type of techniques it calls for—such as slides, hammer-ons, or pull-offs—so you can practice them ahead of time. This will ensure that you have a good handle on the song before actually playing it.
Finally, don’t forget to take breaks. Even though mastering a new bass guitar song can seem overwhelming at first, taking regular breaks will help prevent burnout and allow enough time for your fingers to adjust to new scales and techniques used in the piece. With patience and dedication, you’ll find that easy bass guitar songs can be a fun and rewarding experience.
Low-End Grooves: Mastering Easy Bass Guitar Hits
Dive into the rhythm and pulse of music with these beginner-friendly bass guitar hits. Explore this detailed comparison table, featuring groove complexity, iconic basslines, technique requirements, tempo, and song structure. Embark on your bass guitar journey and effortlessly bring these easy-to-master hits to life with a powerful low-end presence.
| Song | Groove Complexity | Iconic Basslines | Technique Requirements | Tempo (BPM) | Song Structure |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Another One Bites the Dust – Queen | Medium | Signature Slap Bassline | Slap and Pop Technique | 110 | Verse, Chorus, Verse, Chorus, Bridge, Chorus, Outro |
| Billie Jean – Michael Jackson | Medium | Funky Pulsating Groove | Fingerstyle Technique | 117 | Intro, Verse, Chorus, Verse, Chorus, Bridge, Chorus, Outro |
| Stand by Me – Ben E. King | Low-Medium | Smooth and Soulful Bassline | Fingerstyle Technique | 120 | Verse, Chorus, Verse, Chorus, Bridge, Chorus, Outro |
| Come Together – The Beatles | Medium | Bluesy Bassline | Fingerstyle Technique | 95 | Verse, Chorus, Verse, Chorus, Bridge, Chorus, Outro |
| Superstition – Stevie Wonder | High | Funky and Syncopated Bassline | Slap and Pop Technique | 105 | Verse, Chorus, Verse, Chorus, Bridge, Chorus, Outro |
Explanation:
- Another One Bites the Dust – Queen: Medium groove complexity, features a signature slap bassline with slap and pop technique. The song structure includes verse, chorus, verse, chorus, bridge, chorus, and outro at a tempo of 110 BPM.
- Billie Jean – Michael Jackson: Medium groove complexity, presents a funky pulsating groove with fingerstyle technique. The structure consists of intro, verse, chorus, verse, chorus, bridge, chorus, and outro at a tempo of 117 BPM.
- Stand by Me – Ben E. King: Low-medium groove complexity, showcases a smooth and soulful bassline with fingerstyle technique. The song follows a verse-chorus-verse-chorus-bridge-chorus-outro structure at a tempo of 120 BPM.
- Come Together – The Beatles: Medium groove complexity, features a bluesy bassline with fingerstyle technique. The structure includes verse, chorus, verse, chorus, bridge, chorus, and outro at a tempo of 95 BPM.
- Superstition – Stevie Wonder: High groove complexity, boasts a funky and syncopated bassline with slap and pop technique. The song follows a verse-chorus-verse-chorus-bridge-chorus-outro structure at a tempo of 105 BPM.
Feel the rhythm and pulse as you embark on your bass guitar journey with these iconic and easy-to-play hits.
FAQ
What are the easiest songs to play on bass guitar?
The most basic easy bass songs are “Smoke on the Water ” by Deep Purple, “Iron Man” by Black Sabbath, and “I Want You Back” by The Jackson 5. As you become more experienced in playing the bass guitar, other popular classic rock and blues songs such as “Sweet Home Alabama” by Lynyrd Skynyrd or “Crossroads” by Cream can also be easily learned. Additionally, there is a plethora of modern chart-topping hits that incorporate simple yet catchy bass lines such as “Feel It Still” (Portugal. The Man), “Uptown Funk” (Mark Ronson ft. Bruno Mars) and “Shape of You ” (Ed Sheeran).
What are the best resources for learning easy bass guitar songs?
The internet is home to a wide range of websites and instructional videos that can provide helpful tips and guides on how to play certain songs. Additionally, there are many online platforms like YouTube and Dailymotion where you can find tutorials specifically tailored towards beginners. Furthermore, many books are available which offer detailed lessons and exercises on playing popular songs. Finally, if you’re more interested in one-on-one tutoring, consider enrolling in a local music school or hiring a private tutor.
Are there any other aspects of playing bass that I should be aware of?
Yes! In addition to practicing with your fingers, it’s important to pay attention to the timing. This means making sure that you hit each note in time with the beat of the song, and being mindful of when to pause or accent certain notes. Additionally, you should also be familiar with reading musical notation charts and tablature which can help you understand rhythm structures more easily. Lastly, practice makes perfect so make sure to set aside enough time for yourself if you want to improve your skills!
What are some tips for improving my bass guitar playing?
Practice is key when it comes to improving your bass guitar playing! Try setting small goals like mastering a new technique or learning a new song each week – this will help keep your progress steady and consistent. Additionally, listening to recordings of great bass players is a great way to learn new techniques and styles. Finally, don’t be afraid to experiment – by trying different sounds and techniques, you can find your own unique style of playing!
Is it easy to learn the bass guitar?
Absolutely! With the right techniques and the proper guidance, anyone can learn to play amazing bass lines. The key is starting with easy bass guitar songs that you can pick up quickly and master in a short time. So, where do you start? Beginners should look for simple bass lines that only require basic chords and fundamental notes. Choose popular tunes so you can get familiar with the melody as well as the chord progressions. That way, you’ll be able to focus on learning each part of the song without getting overwhelmed or frustrated. It’s also helpful to practice slowly so you can execute each note accurately while gradually building up speed. Some examples of easy bass guitar songs include classics like “Stand By Me” by Ben E. King, “Billie Jean” by Michael Jackson, and “Uptown Funk” by Mark Ronson feat. Bruno Mars. With enough practice and dedication, you’ll be able to master the basics of playing the bass guitar in no time!
Is bass or guitar harder?
The answer to this question will depend on the individual and their own playing experience. Generally speaking, bass guitar is considered simpler than its six-string counterpart since it typically features fewer strings and chords. That being said, both instruments require practice and dedication if you want to get good at them. So, whether you’re more interested in learning the bass or guitar, start with easy songs that you can master quickly before tackling harder pieces of music.
Can you recommend easy bass guitar songs for beginners?
Some easy bass guitar songs for beginners include “Stand by Me” by Ben E. King, “Seven Nation Army” by The White Stripes, and “Another One Bites the Dust” by Queen. These songs typically feature straightforward basslines and repetitive patterns, making them ideal for bassists who are just starting to learn.
Which bass guitar songs are suitable for developing fingerstyle technique?
For developing fingerstyle technique, songs like “Come Together” by The Beatles and “Superstition” by Stevie Wonder are excellent choices. These bass guitar songs provide opportunities to work on fingerstyle playing and explore different rhythmic patterns with your fingers.
Can you suggest bass guitar songs that focus on groovy and funky basslines?
Certainly! “Uptown Funk” by Mark Ronson ft. Bruno Mars and “Give It Away” by Red Hot Chili Peppers are great choices for exploring groovy and funky basslines. These songs allow bassists to develop a sense of groove and rhythm while playing in a fun and energetic style.
Are there any bass guitar songs with minimalistic notation for beginners?
If you’re looking for songs with minimalistic notation, “Sunshine of Your Love” by Cream and “Hysteria” by Muse are good choices. These bass guitar songs have straightforward sheet music, making them accessible for beginners who are still getting comfortable with notation and reading bass tabs.
What are some bass guitar songs with easy arrangements suitable for adult beginners?
For adult beginners, songs like “Billie Jean” by Michael Jackson and “Longview” by Green Day offer relatively simple arrangements. These bass guitar songs allow adults to enjoy playing the instrument while learning and mastering the basics, even if they are new to playing the bass guitar.
Useful Video: TOP 10 EASY Songs To Play On BASS GUITAR!
Conclusion
Learning easy bass guitar songs can be a great way to practice and hone your skills as a bassist. With these tips, you should have no problem finding the best tunes for you and having fun playing them! Don’t forget to always strive for improvement by using different techniques and expanding your repertoire with more challenging pieces. With the right attitude, patience, and dedication, soon enough you’ll become an expert on all things bass guitar!
Enjoying music doesn’t require complicated pieces – good vibes can still be created with simple melodies. So don’t let yourself worry if you are yet to learn some of the classic bass lines of popular songs; there is always time to expand your knowledge as a musician. Take it one step at a time, and you’ll be surprised at how far you can come.
Happy playing!
References:
- https://www.bassguitarguide.com/easy-bass-songs/
- https://killerguitarrigs.com/easy-bass-songs-for-beginners/
- https://www.schoolofrock.com/resources/bass-guitar/best-songs-for-beginner-bass-guitar
- https://www.musicindustryhowto.com/easy-bass-songs/
- https://beginnerguitarhq.com/easy-bass-songs/
- https://www.fender.com/articles/songs/10-easy-songs-to-learn-on-bass
- https://www.nkoda.com/blog/easy-bass-songs
- https://themusicambition.com/easy-bass-songs/
- https://moises.ai/blog/easy-bass-songs/