Hey, James here!
Today’s video is inspired by top eBassGuitar coach Freddie Draper, who did an amazing video on learning the bass guitar fretboard using pentatonics. He demonstrated his techniques over the iconic Stevie Wonder tune, “Master Blaster.” Since then, I've received tons of requests to break down the entire song, and that's exactly what we’re going to do today for today's lesson.
The Magic of "Master Blaster"
“Master Blaster” was written in the early '80s by Stevie Wonder after he had toured with the legendary Bob Marley. This song has an infectious reggae feel that makes it stand out. It’s a perfect mix of simplicity and complexity, making it an excellent piece for bass players of all levels. On one hand, it features some wonderfully simple bass lines that even beginners can play. On the other, it includes a few sections that are real chop busters, serving as a benchmark for good technique.
What to Expect in This Breakdown
I’m going to take you through “Master Blaster” section by section. While many parts of the song repeat, there are also lots of variations. I’ll show you the most important themes throughout these sections, highlighting both the easy and the challenging parts.
Whether you're just starting out or looking to refine your technique, this breakdown will help you get a deeper understanding of the bass lines in “Master Blaster.”
Ready to Dive In?
It’s been a while since we’ve done a full song breakdown, so I’m eager to get started. Buckle up, relax, and enjoy the tutorial. Let’s dive into the groove and unlock the magic of Stevie Wonder’s “Master Blaster” on bass guitar.
See you next week for more lessons!