How to Learn to Jump, Jive and Wail on Bass

Learn to jump, jive and wail on an upright acoustic bass by playing in the rockabilly style. Use the tips below to give rockabilly style of music a try on your upright bass. It is a fun and lively sound that can be used in jazz, blues or rock and roll. Try the techniques below, and then combine them for the rockabilly or boogie-woogie style of music.

Instructions

Difficulty: Moderate

1. Get the right set up for slap style. You need very low-tension strings. Many players opt for strings made from things other than steel, such as gut strings. You also may need a higher bridge. If you have an adjustable one, then make it as high as possible.
2. Try slap style. Pull the string away from the neck of the upright bass. When the string bounces back, it collides with the neck of the bass, creating a slapping sound.
3. Do a double slap. Double slap is probably the most commonly heard slap style technique. A double slap is slapping the string before pulling it away. Do this a step before the note is played--otherwise it will be behind.
4. Perform a triple slap in a 2-count space. Hit the note and then slap the neck twice for rhythm.
5. Practice a rumba slap. A rumba slap alternates between triple slap and no slap at all. It creates an uneven beat that adds a great amount of interest to a song. It takes some practice to get used to.