How to Walk a Bass Line

The walking bass line is a foundation of the jazz rhythm section and a very useful skill to learn. The walking bass line sets up the rhythmic and harmonic framework for the song. The bass player’s job is to connect what the drummer and the pianist are doing in the rhythm section. In this video, I am going to show you several different methods for walking basslines, in addition to showing you how to walk a bass line and sing at the same time. This lesson is great for anyone who plays a little piano and understands the basics of jazz harmony.

The best way that you can really learn this information is to listen. Jazz is an aural tradition, and in order to sound authentic, you must have the sound of the great jazz artists in your ear. Before you dive deep into playing this material, I strongly recommend you have a listen to some jazz recordings and tune your ear into what the bass player is doing.

Three Rules

As you get started walking bass lines, it is helpful to think of three rules:

1. You have to play the root of the chord at the beginning of the bar.
2. You have to play the root of the chord anytime the chord changes.
3. You need to outline the harmony as much as possible in your walking bass line.  

**These rules are to help you get started and are not rules that professional jazz bass players abide by.  Jazz bass players come up with all kinds of creative ways to walk bass lines!