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Rockabilly Bass

Tips and Tricks

 

Rockabilly bass is still played on a traditional standing bass rather than a bass guitar.  Much like bluegrass and old country, the rockabilly bass has a “plunking” sound that creates a minimalistic quality of music.  There are several websites where you can find tips and information in regards to playing rockabilly bass and getting quality sound.  This article will try to touch on some of those.

The best tone and response can be achieved from an upright bass through set-up.  This adds a “forgiving” quality, as the instrument is not easy to play well.  Have the bass set up by a luthier.  The planing of the fingerboard should be correct, and there should be no string buzz.  The bridge of the rockabilly bass should sit on the belly perfectly with no gaps, and the sound post should be kept snug without overtightening.
  

Rockabilly Bass rules the school  A fantastic Rockabilly Bass from one of the best
 

Feedback from rockabilly bass, often played as a slap bass, by having a sound post under both sides of the bridge.  You might wedge something between the tailpiece and belly, or perhaps put tape over or foam in your f holes.  Lowering the stage volume of the rockabilly bass and putting a microphone on the amp, as well as standing away from the speaker will also help.  Some rockabilly bass players squeeze the instrument between their knees.

Rockabilly bass players often use gut strings.  However, if you wish to use steel strings, use an Orchestral set because they are a little looser tuned to E, and it may save you a little pain and anguish for your fingers.  The action on your bass should be fairly low for ease of playing but high enough for vibration of the strings.  Higher action also allows for better tone.  You should experiment with an adjustable bridge to find a happy medium that’s right for you.

Plenty of other hints and tricks can be found on the internet with a few simple strokes of the keyboard; there are forums set up purely to share information about playing rockabilly bass.

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