what i got bass tab

2 min read 22-12-2024

What I Got: Bass Tablature and Playing Tips

Whether you're a seasoned bassist or just starting out, learning the bass line to "What I Got" by Sublime is a rewarding experience. This iconic song features a catchy, relatively simple bassline perfect for practicing your groove. This guide provides the bass tab, some playing tips, and even explores some variations you can add to make the song your own.

Getting Started with the "What I Got" Bassline

The bassline in "What I Got" is characterized by its laid-back groove and repetitive, yet effective, rhythmic pattern. The key is to focus on the feel, ensuring your timing is tight and your notes are clean. This is a great song for developing your sense of rhythm and understanding how a simple bassline can underpin a complex song.

Bass Tablature:

(Note: This is a simplified version. Listen to the original recording for nuances and variations.)

G|-------------------------------------------------|
D|---3-3-3-3-3-3-3-3-1-1-1-1-1-1-1-1-----------------|
A|---3-3-3-3-3-3-3-3-1-1-1-1-1-1-1-1-----------------|
E|-------------------------------------------------|

This tab represents the main riff. It's repeated throughout much of the song. Pay close attention to the timing and try to emulate the slightly relaxed feel of the original recording.

Playing Tips:

Focus on the feel: Don't just play the notes; feel the groove. Listen to the original and try to match its relaxed, slightly off-beat feel.
Use your fingers effectively: Experiment with different fingerings to find what’s comfortable and efficient.
Practice with a metronome: This will help you develop your timing and accuracy. Start slow and gradually increase the tempo as you become more comfortable.
Listen to the song repeatedly: Immerse yourself in the music to internalize the groove and nuances. Pay attention to the interplay between the bass and the other instruments.

Exploring Variations and Advanced Techniques

Once you've mastered the basic riff, you can experiment with variations:

Adding slides: Try incorporating slides between notes to add a smoother, more fluid feel.
Ghost notes: These are lightly played notes that add texture and rhythm without being overly prominent.
Experiment with different rhythms: Try slightly altering the rhythm of the repeated riff to create subtle variations. A little variation can make the performance more dynamic.

Beyond the Basics: Understanding the Song's Structure

To truly master the "What I Got" bassline, you'll want to understand the song's structure. The basic riff is repeated throughout, but there are sections with variations and fills. Learning the entire song, including the transitions and other parts, will enhance your overall understanding and playing.

Resources and Further Learning:

YouTube tutorials: Search for "What I Got bass tutorial" on YouTube. Many videos provide detailed instruction and demonstrations.
Online bass communities: Engage with other bassists online to share tips, techniques, and ask questions.

Mastering the bassline for "What I Got" is a fantastic way to improve your bass playing skills. Remember, practice, patience, and a good ear are essential. Enjoy the process, and have fun playing!

what i got bass tab