You can play slap on any bass. However, different basses will be optimal for the sound of slap such as having hot pickups, steel strings and the bass being constructed of high-quality wood matched with a set up for optimal playability. Technique and amp EQ settings are also very important factors.
Can every bass slap?
In general, you can slap any bass guitar. However, not all basses produce the type of sound associated with slap bass. Having high action on your bass will make slapping more difficult and produce a less desirable sound. Slapping also becomes more difficult on basses with strings that are old or too thick.
Does slapping the bass damage it?
Yes, it can do. I’ve seen various fretless basses over the years where you could see grooves worn into the bottom of the fingerboard from overly energetic slapping. There’s several things that can be done.
Is slapping bass difficult?
Slapping can be really tough for beginner bass players that want to imitate their heroes like Flea, Marcus Miller or Mark King but some of the issues are easily fixed with some simple tips.
Can you slap a 5 string bass?
Despite having an additional low string, it is possible to slap on a 5-string bass. While there are slight differences in slapping a 5-string and a 4-string, multiple professional bassists have used 5 basses for slapping.
What bass is best for slapping?
5 Best Bass Guitars for Slap
- Fender Player Jazz Bass.
- Squier Classic Vibe ’70s.
- Squier Contemporary Active Jazz.
- Schecter Stiletto Extreme.
- Jackson Spectra JS3.
Who invented bass slapping?
Larry Graham
Larry Graham is generally credited as inventing slap bass guitar. Graham has said that he was simply trying to create a drum-like sound to flesh out the rhythm in the then drummerless Family Stone.
Why do you slap bass?
By slapping the strings, bassists can get a distinct percussive sound they couldn’t have gotten by picking or plucking the strings.
Is it easier to slap on a 4 string bass?
4-string basses are easier to play. This means that you can pick up playing techniques such as fingerstyle, slapping, and tapping on the instrument with more ease in comparison to 5-string basses. But there is a limit in terms of what notes you have access to.
Can I slap on fretless bass?
A fretless bass can be slapped just like a bass with frets. However, the lack of frets produces a warmer sound that is atypical for slapping. With the right technique, a slap plate, and EQ, a fretless bass can produce a great slap sound, but it will still sound dissimilar to a bass with frets.
Who invented slapping?
The invention of slap on electric bass is generally credited to funk bassist Larry Graham. Graham has stated in several interviews that he was trying to emulate the sound of a drum set before his band had found its drummer. Graham himself refers to the technique as “thumpin′ and pluckin′”.
Can you slap on a jazz bass?
The Jazz is definitely right on for slap! I slapped mine like crazy this past weekend! Just roll your highs off a bit!
Why is bass so underrated?
Bass is severely underrated because it does not carry the melody. You generally don’t hear bass solos. Bass isn’t the type of instrument that garners attention. It’s generally there to drive the music and provide rhythm to the entire band.
What’s better 4 or 5 string bass?
A 4 string bass has a narrower neck, wider string spacing, and is easier to play. In comparison, a 5 string bass has an extra string allowing an extended lower range to play notes in lower keys and the choice of more scales, chords, and arpeggios but has a wider neck and a heavier instrument.
What is the advantage of a 5 string bass?
The biggest advantage of the five-string bass is its extended lower range. From the fretted low-E all the way down to the chest-imploding low-B, that fifth string provides a gateway for exploration into previously uncharted territory.
Are active basses better for slapping?
Either can work, and there are great players slapping using both active and passive pickups. Answer is, whichever of the two you like better, is better. IE, its entirely a question of personal preference. active pickups are brighter,louder and some people prefer that sound when they slap.
What bass does Flea play?
That instrument is the Flea Active Jazz Bass. Flea has been a Jazz Bass aficionado for many years – his prized model is an authentic 1961 Shell Pink Jazz Bass that he received from a fan in the early 2000s.
Can you slap an acoustic bass?
You can, physically, slap and pop an ABG without doing damage. It may (and almost certainly) not sound like generic slap and pop. The most likely sonic result would be slop and poop.
Who is the best bassist in the world?
Top 10 Bassists of All Time
| Rank | Bassist | Associated Acts |
|---|---|---|
| 1 | John Entwistle | The Who, Pete Townshend, Roger Daltrey |
| 2 | Flea | Red Hot Chili Peppers, Atoms For Peace |
| 3 | James Jamerson | Motown, The Funk Brothers |
| 4 | Larry Graham | Sly & The Family Stone, Graham Central Station |
Who’s considered the best bass player?
- 8: Larry Graham (Sly & The Family Stone)
- 7: James Jamerson (The Funk Brothers)
- 6: John Entwistle (The Who)
- 5: Chris Squire (Yes)
- 4: Stanley Clarke.
- 3: Carol Kaye.
- 2: Paul McCartney.
- 1: Jaco Pastorius.
Can you slap a double bass?
Do I need a special set up or strings to play slap bass? It’s possible to play slap on any bass and there are many bassists using steel strings with a standard setup.