How to Read Bass Tabs

Bass tablature (tabs) is an easy way to learn songs without needing to read traditional sheet music. Here’s a quick guide to understanding the symbols and techniques commonly found in tabs:

1. The Basics

• Strings and Frets:

  Each line in a tab represents a string on your bass:

  • The top line is the highest-pitched string (G on a 4-string bass).
  • The bottom line is the lowest-pitched string (E on a 4-string bass).

  Numbers on the lines indicate which fret to press. For example:

  G|-------------------|
  
  D|-------------------|
  
  A|---3---------------|
  
  E|-------------------|
  
              

  This means you play the 3rd fret on the A string.

2. Common Techniques

• Hammer-On (h):

  Play the first note by picking it, then press down on a higher fret with another finger without picking again.

  G|-------------------|
  
  D|-------5h7---------|
  
              

• Pull-Off (p):

  Pluck a note and then "pull off" your finger to let a lower fret ring.

  G|-------------------|
  
  D|-------7p5---------|
  
              

• Slide (/ or \):

  Move your finger up (/) or down (\) the fretboard while maintaining pressure.

  G|-------------------|
  
  D|-------5/7---------|
  
              

3. Advanced Techniques

• Bend (b): Push the string up or down to raise the pitch. Example: G|-------7b9---------|
• Vibrato (~): Shake the string slightly after playing a note to create a vibrating sound. Example: G|-------7~----------|
• Muted Notes (x): Rest your finger lightly on the string without pressing a fret and pluck for a percussive "click" sound.

4. Rhythm and Timing

Tabs don’t always indicate timing, so listen to the song while reading the tab. Wider spaces between numbers mean longer pauses, while closer numbers indicate quicker notes.

5. Slap and Pop

• Slap (s): Strike the string with the side of your thumb for a percussive sound.
• Pop (p): Pull the string away from the fretboard and let it snap back.

Practice Makes Perfect

Tabs are a great tool to learn songs, but mastering the techniques takes practice. Listen carefully to the original track and play along to lock in the rhythm. Don’t rush — smooth, accurate playing is more important than speed. Happy jamming! 🎸

Comments

Maapesos

9 years, 2 months ago
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He doesn't start on the F# in the verse.

talkinfun

8 years, 10 months ago
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They published the exact bass line transcription for this song somewhere back in the day. I'm guessing it was in one of those bass magazines where they transcribe songs note for note. I know I had it around 1992 when I learned the bass part. So its out there somewhere if one can track it down. This is one of Andy Rourke's most beautiful and compelling bass parts. Definitely worth seeking the transcription out. There's so much to be learned from his playing. His bass line adds so much to the overall feel of this song particularly in his choice of notes. There's only a couple other bass players that display his sophistication: Jaco and James Jamerson (of course), Carole Kaye, Paul McCartney, Pino Palladino, Mani (from the Stone Roses). Rourke is in their league as far as I'm concerned. Sorry I can't direct anyone to the transcription. It hasn't popped up on the internet through my searches yet.

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