Bass Legends - Mark King Course Overview
Licklibrary.com is proud to introduce "Bass Legends - Mark King," a specialized bass guitar course designed to delve deep into the techniques and styles of one of the most influential bassists of the modern era. This comprehensive course offers detailed lessons on five of Mark King's iconic tracks: Love Games, The Chinese Way, Hot Water, Mr Pink, and The Sun Goes Down (Living It Up). Each lesson not only explores the technical aspects of these songs but also imparts the musical wisdom needed to master Mark King's signature style. This course is taught by Phil Williams.
Songs Included in This Course
- Love Games
- The Chinese Way
- Hot Water
- Mr Pink
- The Sun Goes Down (Living It Up)
Song Breakdowns
Love Games
In the "Love Games" lesson, students explore the rhythmic precision and slap bass technique that define the groove of the song. The tutorial breaks down the syncopated rhythms and emphasizes the importance of timing and dynamics. Learning these techniques offers bassists the ability to inject a sense of groove and movement into their playing, which is fundamental for any bass player looking to elevate their performance in ensemble settings.
The Chinese Way
This lesson focuses on the use of octave melodies and the unique application of funk-based techniques. Students will learn how to employ both finger-picking and slap styles to mirror King's dynamic playing in "The Chinese Way." The ability to switch between different playing techniques seamlessly is invaluable for bassists aiming to diversify their approach and adapt to various musical genres.
Hot Water
"Hot Water" provides an excellent ground for learning advanced slap techniques and string bending. The lesson elaborates on how these elements can be used to create a punchy and rhythmic bass line that stands out in any mix. Mastery of these techniques enhances a bassist’s ability to contribute more effectively to the rhythmic and harmonic foundation of a band.
Mr Pink
This track is renowned for its technical prowess and complex bass solos. The lesson on "Mr Pink" focuses on intricate slap bass patterns, harmonics, and high-speed runs. Learning these advanced techniques not only improves dexterity and coordination but also builds a bassist's confidence in executing solos and fills within a band or as a solo performer.
The Sun Goes Down (Living It Up)
The lesson on "The Sun Goes Down (Living It Up)" covers the use of chromaticism and syncopated rhythms. It teaches how to blend these techniques to create smooth transitions and a groovy bass line. These skills are essential for any bassist looking to add a sophisticated touch to their playing, enhancing both live performances and studio recordings.
Techniques, Sounds, and Gear
Aside from individual song tutorials, the "Bass Legends - Mark King" course includes a dedicated segment that discusses the specific sounds, techniques, and gear used by Mark King. This segment helps students understand how to replicate King’s distinctive tone and how the choice of equipment can influence their sound. This knowledge is crucial for bassists who wish to tailor their tone for different musical contexts or to develop their unique sound.
Benefits
By enrolling in this course, students gain the ability to not only play bass lines accurately but also to understand the theory and context behind Mark King’s parts. These insights allow bassists to improvise and adapt these techniques across various styles, enhancing their versatility and creativity.
List of Techniques Used
Here is a list of the main guitar techniques covered in this course, with links to further resources on each:
Through "Bass Legends - Mark King," students experience a journey through the funk and pop repertoire that shaped an era, guided by the legacy of Mark King’s innovative bass playing. This course not only equips them with technical skills but also with the musicality and expressive tools necessary to evolve as influential musicians in their own right.
