Ep029 - Walking Bass Lines - Part 2: Pentatonics

In this episode of GTRNRD, Andy Schneider continues his exploration of walking bass lines, focusing on the use of pentatonic scales to create compelling bass parts. Walking bass lines are essential in jazz, blues, and rock, providing rhythmic and harmonic foundations. Andy emphasizes the importance of pentatonics as a versatile tool for both bass and guitar players, offering insights into their structure and application.

Andy explains the major and minor pentatonic scales, highlighting their role in crafting bass lines and solos. He encourages musicians to start with the root and fifth, the "meat and potatoes" of bass playing, and to strategically use pentatonics to enhance their music. Andy demonstrates how to construct bass lines using pentatonic scales on his six-string bass, providing practical examples in both major and minor keys.

For advanced players, Andy suggests experimenting with different fingerings and positions to discover new melodic possibilities. He also introduces his new books, "Beginner Bass Scales and Exercises" and "Beginner Left-Handed Bass Scales and Exercises," designed to help musicians build scale knowledge and improve their playing with just 10 minutes of practice a day.

Andy concludes by encouraging listeners to experiment with pentatonics, listen to their favorite bassists, and recognize the widespread use of these scales in music. He teases the next episode, "Game Killers," which will focus on identifying issues with your guitar or bass that might be holding you back.