Hey, James here!
I want to kick things off with something personal—a piece of music that still gives me goosebumps even after all these years. It’s from James Taylor's 1993 live album, featuring the rhythm section that changed my life: Jimmy Johnson on bass and Carlos Vega on drums. Their groove, timing, and musicianship are the ultimate examples of what I strive for as a bass player.
In today’s video, we’ll break down five of Jimmy Johnson’s killer bass fills from the track "Up On The Roof"—from simple and tasteful to complex and mind-blowing. Whether you’re a beginner or a seasoned player, these fills will inspire you. Plus, I’ve included a free PDF with all the notation, tablature, and my very own handwritten transcription to help you follow along.
Ready to dive in? Watch the video, grab the PDF down below, and let’s get into these incredible bass fills!
See you next week!