How to make the music feel great with a super simple bass line!

By Jon Liebman
May 23, 2024

One of the first things most aspiring rock bassists want to learn to play is a shuffle groove. Specifically, a blues shuffle groove.

While the shuffle groove itself is not technically difficult, it still requires strict adherence to three things:

• Interpreting – and really feeling! – the triplet subdivision
• Keeping a steady, driving pulse throughout the entire song
• Building strength and stamina as a bass player — you never know how long you’re going to have to keep up the groove!

As is the case when learning how to play any style on the bass, start simple and easy. Then you can build from there, giving the music just what it needs.

Watch the video below, where I explain it all, and play some examples, both simple and not so simple. Then see what you can come up with on your own!

Leave a comment below and share your thoughts, experiences, and/or questions.

Let’s play bass!