Today we’re diving into a question I get asked all the time…
"Which bass lines are better — simple or complex?"
Let’s unpack that by doing something fun: we’re going to take the intro groove to Georgy Porgy by Toto, and I’ll build 10 bass lines, each one getting progressively more complex. From laid-back and minimal to full-on funk wizardry, this is a deep dive into how groove evolves.
Level 1: Just the Roots
We kick things off super simple — long whole notes on each chord. It’s basic, but it works. There’s power in simplicity.
Level 2: Quarter Note Pulse
Here we’re adding a pulse by playing on beats 1 and 3. The gaps between the notes create space — and that space is where the music breathes.
Level 3: Adding a Dead Note
One tiny ghost note (or dead note, if you prefer) brings the groove to life. It’s subtle, but suddenly there’s movement.
Level 4: Enter the Approach Note
This is one of the most effective techniques we teach inside Bass Lab Plus — an approach note a whole step above the root, plus a cleaner 16th note instead of a ghost. Things are starting to move!
Level 5: Scalic Enclosures
We’re getting fancier now. Two 8th-note approach notes wrap around the next chord’s root. It’s a classic technique that gives your lines sophistication and flow.
Level 6: Chromatic 16ths
Adding chromatic movement with two 16th-note approach tones brings funk into the mix. This level starts to demand more precision and feel.
Level 7: Chromatic Enclosures
We go all-in with three chromatic approach notes — wrapping around the root like a musical hug. Funky, expressive, and full of flavour.
Level 8: The Original Toto Line
At this point, we honour David Hungate’s original Toto groove — packed with 16ths and melodic movement. This one really sings.
Level 9: More Fifths, More Links
We layer in extra low fifths and connecting approach notes. The groove thickens, and the harmony gets tighter. Busy, but still musical.
Level 10: Full-On Melodic Mayhem
Now we’re pushing the limits — busy, melodic, and expressive. This final version takes everything we’ve learned and wraps it into one killer line.
So… Which Bass Line Is Best?
Here’s the honest answer: they’re all valid.
I once had an amateur bassist (a mate of my dad’s) say to me,
“Bass lines can be as simple or as complex as you like.”
And he was absolutely right.
The beauty of the bass guitar is that it works on so many levels. Simple lines can be incredibly powerful. Complex lines can be inspiring and musical. What matters most is serving the song and playing with intention.
A Note for My Fellow Over-50 Bassists
At eBassGuitar, we specialise in helping bass players over 50 and beyond. And let’s face it — as we age, fingers might not fly quite like they used to. But the bass is a forgiving, expressive instrument.
You don’t need to shred to groove.
In fact, often the simpler bass lines are the ones that really serve the music — because you make mature, thoughtful choices that support the band.
I'll see you next week!
James