Well, actually, this time, it's going to be TWO Bassists, One Question. Boy, it sure is hard getting hold of people during the Summertime. But we did manage to score some serious input from two very talented bassists, Beaver Felton and Aaron Gibson.
The question was: WHAT DO YOU THINK ABOUT USING A PICK ON A BASS? DO YOU EVER USE ONE?
Beaver Felton says: I've been playing bass 47 years. I've played in progressive rock groups, straight black funk groups, fusion combos, dance bands, corny show bands, and everything in between. As such, I've developed finger-style, slap-style, and pick-style.
As far as which technique I use, it of course comes down to what's the effect I'm trying to create and what's the application. It's really just that simple and has nothing to do with one technique being any "better" than another. Each one has its own merit and place and produces its own sound.
It truly bothers me when I hear that phrase "Real bass players don't use a pick". Ridiculous. It's as absurd and saying "Real bass players don't play slap" (oops, sorry, Jeff Berlin). And so on.
Here is a great example of everything stated above:
Many years ago I met Kenny Aaronson (world renown touring and recording bass player for well over 40 years). You've heard him, whether you know it or not. He's known for using a variety of techniques, with a wide variety of national artists, and in different genres.
At one point while we were in contact with each other (mid-late 80s), he landed the gig with Billy Idol ($$$). He told me that the gig absolutely demanded that he play with a pick for most or all material. If you're at all familiar with Billy idol's material, you'll remember that much of it is comprised of a bass-line consisting of straight eighth notes. Very driving, consistent, and straightforward.
***As a matter of fact, guitarist/band-leader, Steve Stevens, would absolutely get onto Kenny if he deviated from using All Down Strokes! Why? Because they sound identical to each other.
Kenny is also great at finger style and a very uncommon technique that's more indicative of upright bass players where he slaps fingers of his right hand against the fretboard. He may have used this technique while playing with Brian Setzer.
So, my fellow bassists, how many of you would turn down a Great gig because you're too stubborn or unable to use a technique other than the one you prefer?
And Aaron Gibson says: If my memory is correct, the first bass lesson book that I acquired alongside my Fender precision bass had an opening page with an iconic black shape on it. “This is a pick” was written down as the starting point, and the local shops had guitar teachers that took on bass students. So, I started with a pick.
After some time I progressed from modern rock to funk and then jazz, and the pick seemed to get in the way. I never really looked back once I started using my fingers, but I have employed picks many times for recording.
Sometimes a bright attack sounds best for a certain kind of song. I never really understood the people who get ruffled about it though, every musician has their own path, and that is the way it should be. The vibrating string will create a tone if it is plucked, slapped or picked. Bobby Vega plays bass with a pick. Tony Levin plays bass with little drum sticks strapped to his fingers.
Thanks for the input, Gents. It sure is nice to hear from you!
If you have a question you'd like to ask the pros, or if you have a bassist you'd like to hear from, just drop me an email or a PM.
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