How To Play Slap Bass

Have you ever tried to learn how to play slap bass and only been frustrated at the results you achieved? Well, you don't have to settle for a wimpy slap and or an an iffy pop any longer! I am going to tell you exactly how to play slap bass, the right way.

The first thing to get a hang of is the slap. In case you don't know, a slap means to hit the string with your thumb instead of plucking it with your fingers or a pick like in standard bass playing. Here are some tips:

1. Make a first with your thumb on top. lift your thumb until it makes about a 45 degree angle. This is the position it should be in for the slap.
2. Rotate your hand, like you were turning a car key. This is the motion you should use for slapping.
3. Keep your arm about parallel with the strings.
4. Using the "car key" motion, strike the E string and come to rest on the A string. Try to aim for the floor side of the E string.
5. Hit the string hard enough that it slaps the fretboard.
6. Popping is an essential technique that is used in conjunction with slapping 99% of the time.
7. Be sure to pop the string with enough force that it bounces on the fretboard and makes the pop sound.

Practice dilligently, and you'll learn how to play slap bass.