How playing the same line makes the whole band sound betterJon Liebman
November 13, 2025

Ever notice how some of the greatest songs use the same bass line through most — or even all — of the song?

Think “Another One Bites the Dust,” “Under Pressure,” “Come Together,” “With or Without You” — they hardly change at all.

Why do they sound so good?

Because repetition builds stability. It lets the listener relax into the groove. When the rest of the band is moving, you’re the anchor that holds it all together. That’s the real secret to making a song sound powerful.

In this week’s Essence of Groove video, I’ll show you how simple, repetitive bass lines create the foundation that makes a band sound tight and strong. You’ll also get a few tips on how to keep your timing, consistency, and touch locked in — even when the line doesn’t change.

Watch the video, then leave a comment below with your takeaways.
Let’s play bass!
— Jon