Try injecting some of your personality into your bass playing

By Jon Liebman
February 3, 2025

When playing bass in a band, it’s always important to keep your role in mind. Do what’s expected of you, lay it down, make it feel good, etc.

Do you need to do any more than that?

Truthfully, no. In fact, much of the time it’s best if you don’t do any more.

Sometimes, though, it’s appropriate, even desirable, to inject some of your own personality into your bass playing.

Years ago, I was attending a clinic with Nate Watts, Stevie Wonder’s bass player. Amazing bassist! At first, he emphasized the importance of taking care of business, so as not to lose sight of that. 

But then he said, “Sign it!” 

I’ve always loved the way he expressed that.

In this week’s video, I talk about putting some of yourself into your bass lines and how it can really enhance the music. I also play a few examples to give you some ideas.

Watch the video and let me know your biggest takeaway. If you’ve ever done anything like that, share your experience. I’d love to hear about it.

Let’s play bass!

Signed…

Jon