Intermediate Bass Songs: Take Your Playing to the Next Level
Ready to move beyond beginner basslines? These intermediate bass songs will challenge your technique, improve your timing, and introduce new grooves. Whether you’re into rock, funk, or metal, this list has something for you!
1. What Makes a Song “Intermediate” on Bass?
If you’ve mastered the basics and can play simple basslines confidently, you’re ready for the next level! Intermediate bass songs typically include:
- ✅ More complex rhythms – Syncopation, groove variations, and faster tempos.
- ✅ String crossing & position shifts – Moving across the neck smoothly.
- ✅ Basic techniques – Hammer-ons, pull-offs, ghost notes, or slap bass.
- ✅ More active bass parts – Stepping beyond root notes into melodic playing.
2. Top 10 Intermediate Bass Songs to Learn
1. “Money” – Pink Floyd
- 🎵 Why It’s Great: Uses a unique 7/4 time signature, walking bassline, and syncopation.
- 🎸 Techniques: Timing control, groove consistency.
2. “Come Together” – The Beatles
- 🎵 Why It’s Great: Iconic groove-based bassline with slides and syncopation.
- 🎸 Techniques: Groove, slides, muting.
3. “Hysteria” – Muse
- 🎵 Why It’s Great: A fast-paced galloping bassline that tests stamina and precision.
- 🎸 Techniques: Finger speed, endurance, alternate plucking.
4. “Under Pressure” – Queen & David Bowie
- 🎵 Why It’s Great: A famous syncopated bassline with hammer-ons and groove.
- 🎸 Techniques: Hammer-ons, groove feel.
5. “Longview” – Green Day
- 🎵 Why It’s Great: One of the most recognizable punk basslines, using fills and slides.
- 🎸 Techniques: Finger dexterity, slides, rhythmic consistency.
6. “Super Freak” – Rick James
- 🎵 Why It’s Great: A funky octave bassline that locks in with the drums.
- 🎸 Techniques: Octaves, groove, muting.
7. “Roundabout” – Yes
- 🎵 Why It’s Great: Features a complex intro riff and melodic fills throughout.
- 🎸 Techniques: Fast plucking, finger independence.
8. “Schism” – Tool
- 🎵 Why It’s Great: Uses odd time signatures and dynamic phrasing.
- 🎸 Techniques: Rhythmic control, fretboard navigation.
9. “Billie Jean” – Michael Jackson
- 🎵 Why It’s Great: A tight, groovy bassline that demands precision.
- 🎸 Techniques: Muting, ghost notes, rhythmic accuracy.
10. “Aeroplane” – Red Hot Chili Peppers
- 🎵 Why It’s Great: Features slap bass, slides, and fast runs.
- 🎸 Techniques: Slap & pop, slides, ghost notes.
3. Tips for Learning Intermediate Bass Songs
- 🎯 Start Slow – Play at 50-75% speed before trying full tempo.
- 🎯 Use a Metronome – Helps lock in timing, especially with syncopated rhythms.
- 🎯 Break It Down – Learn difficult sections separately before putting them together.
- 🎯 Play Along with the Track – Helps develop feel and groove.
4. Next Steps: Keep Improving!
- 🚀 Master More Techniques – Try Slap Bass Basics or Finger Independence Drills.
- 🎼 Experiment with New Genres – Funk, jazz, and prog rock challenge different skills.
💬 Which song are you learning next? Drop a comment below and let’s talk bass! 🎸🔥
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