Why simple bass parts demand more control than you may think
By Jon Liebman
February 2, 2026
Ever notice how nobody brags about playing whole notes?
They’re usually treated like filler — something you get through so you can move on to the “real” stuff.
The way I see it, whole notes are often where the truth comes out.
If you want a quick way to tell the difference between a good bass player and a great bass player, listen closely to how they play a whole note.
A whole note isn’t just something you hit and wait through. It lasts four full beats, and what happens during those four beats matters.
Your time, your touch, and your awareness are all right there, with nowhere to hide.
In this week’s Essence of Groove video, I break down the right way to play whole notes, using short examples from several familiar songs where long tones are essential to the feel. These are songs everyone knows — but the bass part only works when those long notes really sit in time.
Watch the video, then leave a comment below with your takeaways.
Let’s play bass!
— Jon
I came from a woodwind background when I was in high school. One of the things you do when practicing is long tones. I worked on that on electric bass, too, back in the 80s. Whole notes are so important.
Thanks, Edwin. The application and function may be different for various instruments but the importance is still there, regardless of what instrument you’re playing. I appreciate you sharing that. 👍
Thank you Jon implementing this in my playing is going to help it’s easy to rush and not give proper time to the whole notes
You’re welcome, Phlee. I’m glad you’re getting something out of my lessons. Keep up the good work!