If you’re a bass player, chances are you’ve heard “What I Like About You” by The Romantics. This classic tune is known for its catchy guitar riff and upbeat tempo, but the bassline is just as important to the song’s overall sound. That’s why many bass players have sought out a transcription of the bassline to learn it for themselves.
Luckily, there are several resources available for bass players who want to learn the bassline to “What I Like About You.” From online tabs to video tutorials, aspiring bassists can find the information they need to master this classic tune. Whether you’re a beginner or an experienced player, learning the bassline to “What I Like About You” is a great way to improve your skills and add a classic song to your repertoire.
One of the most popular resources for learning the bassline to “What I Like About You” is a bass transcription. This type of resource provides a written version of the bassline, allowing players to learn the notes and rhythms at their own pace. With a bass transcription, you can break down the song into manageable sections and practice each part until you’ve mastered the entire bassline.
The Importance of Bass Transcription
As a bass player, you may have heard the term “bass transcription” before. But what is it, and why is it important? In short, a bass transcription is a written or digital representation of a bass line. This can be in the form of standard notation or tabs, and it allows you to learn and play a bass line accurately.
Bass transcription is an essential skill for any bass player, regardless of their skill level. It allows you to learn new songs quickly and accurately, and it helps you to develop your ear for music. By transcribing bass lines, you can start to understand the patterns and techniques used by other bass players, and you can incorporate these into your own playing.
One of the benefits of bass transcription is that it can help you to improve your sight-reading skills. By reading through a transcription, you can learn to read standard notation and tabs more quickly and accurately. This can be especially helpful if you plan on playing in a band or orchestra, where sight-reading is an important skill.
Another benefit of bass transcription is that it can help you to develop your own playing style. By studying the bass lines of other players, you can start to understand the techniques and patterns that they use. You can then incorporate these into your own playing, creating a unique style that is all your own.
bass transcription is an essential skill for any bass player. It allows you to learn new songs quickly and accurately, improve your sight-reading skills, and develop your own playing style. Whether you prefer standard notation or tabs, there are many resources available online to help you get started with bass transcription.
What I Like About You: A Case Study
If you’re a bass player looking to learn a classic rock song, “What I Like About You” by The Romantics is a great place to start. This upbeat tune features a catchy bassline that is both fun to play and easy to learn.
The song starts with a solo bass intro that sets the tone for the rest of the tune. The intro is played in the key of E and features a series of descending notes that are played on the E and A strings. The solo is a great exercise in finger dexterity and timing, and it’s a great way to warm up before playing the rest of the song.
After the solo, the song moves into the verse, which features a simple but effective bassline. The bassline is played on the E and A strings and features a series of eighth notes that are played in a repeating pattern. The pattern is easy to learn and provides a solid foundation for the rest of the song.
The chorus of “What I Like About You” features a more complex bassline that is played on the E and D strings. The bassline features a series of eighth notes that are played in a syncopated rhythm. The bassline is a great example of how a simple melody can be made more interesting by adding rhythmic complexity.
“What I Like About You” is a great song for bass players of all skill levels. The song features a catchy bassline, fun solo, and simple chord progression that is easy to follow. Whether you’re a beginner looking to learn a new song or an experienced player looking for a fun challenge, “What I Like About You” is a great choice.
Understanding the Notation and Tabs
If you’re new to reading bass tabs, it may seem a bit overwhelming at first. However, once you understand the basic structure of tabs and notation, it becomes much easier to read and play along.
Tabs
Tabs, or tablature, are a visual representation of the bass guitar’s fretboard. Each line represents a string, and the numbers on each line indicate which fret to play. For example, a “0” means to play the open string, while a “3” means to play the third fret on that string.
Tabs also include other symbols to indicate techniques such as slides, hammer-ons, and pull-offs. These symbols help to add more detail to the tab and make it easier to play the song accurately.
Standard Notation
Standard notation is another way to represent music on paper. It uses a combination of notes, rests, and other symbols to indicate pitch, rhythm, and duration. While it may take some time to learn how to read standard notation, it can be a valuable skill for any musician to have.
It’s important to note that not all bass tabs include standard notation. However, if you’re interested in learning how to read standard notation, there are many resources available online to help you get started.
Combination of Tabs and Notation
Many bass tabs include a combination of tabs and standard notation. This can be especially helpful if you’re not familiar with one or the other, as it allows you to learn both at the same time.
When reading a tab with notation, it’s important to pay attention to the timing and duration of each note. This will help you to play the song accurately and in time with the music.
learning how to read bass tabs and notation can take some time and practice. However, with a bit of patience and dedication, you’ll be able to play your favorite songs in no time.
The Role of Genres in Bass Transcription
When it comes to bass transcription, genres play a significant role in determining the style and technique of the bass line. Different genres have their unique characteristics that influence the way bassists approach their playing, and this is reflected in the transcriptions.
For instance, jazz bass transcriptions often feature complex chord progressions and improvisational solos, making them challenging to play. Jazz bassists must have a strong understanding of music theory and be able to improvise on the spot. The bass lines are often melodic and syncopated, requiring precise timing and finger dexterity.
Soul and funk bass transcriptions, on the other hand, focus on groove and rhythm. The bass lines are often repetitive, but they create a strong foundation for the rest of the band to build upon. Soul bassists must have a good sense of timing and be able to lock in with the drummer to create a tight rhythm section.
Rock bass transcriptions tend to be more straightforward, with a focus on power chords and driving rhythms. The bass lines are often simple but effective, providing a solid backbone for the rest of the band. Rock bassists must have a good sense of timing and be able to play with a lot of energy and intensity.
the genre of music plays a crucial role in bass transcription. Each genre has its unique style and technique, which is reflected in the bass lines. Whether you are a jazz, soul, funk, or rock bassist, understanding the characteristics of your genre is essential to becoming a successful bassist.
Popular Artists and Their Influence
Many popular artists have covered “What I Like About You” by The Romantics, showcasing the song’s lasting influence on music. Here are a few examples:
- Bruno Mars: The pop superstar has cited The Romantics as one of his influences, and he has covered “What I Like About You” in concert.
- Chaka Khan: The legendary R&B singer recorded a funk-infused version of the song in 1984, which became a top 5 hit on the US Dance charts.
- David Bowie: The late rock icon covered “What I Like About You” during his 1987 Glass Spider Tour, adding his own unique flair to the track.
- ABBA: The Swedish pop group included a live version of “What I Like About You” on their 1986 album “ABBA Live.”
- Aretha Franklin: The Queen of Soul covered the song on her 1986 album “Aretha,” giving it a soulful twist.
Other notable artists who have covered “What I Like About You” include Harvey Mason, The Jam, Jamiroquai, Jet, Luther Vandross, Madness, Paul Simon, Red Hot Chili Peppers, Bob Marley, Stevie Wonder, and Sade. The song’s catchy melody and upbeat energy have made it a popular choice for artists across genres.
The Bassment: A Quality Source
If you’re looking for a quality source of free bass transcriptions, The Bassment is worth checking out. This website offers a wide range of transcriptions, including the bassline for “What I Like About You” by The Romantics.
The Bassment is known for its high-quality transcriptions that are accurate and easy to read. The transcriptions are created by experienced bass players, so you can trust that they are reliable. Plus, they are available for free, making it accessible to anyone who wants to learn the bassline.
In addition to “What I Like About You,” The Bassment also offers transcriptions for other popular songs. You can browse their collection by artist or song title, making it easy to find what you’re looking for. The website is updated regularly, so you can expect to find new transcriptions added frequently.
The Bassment is a great resource for anyone who wants to improve their bass playing skills. With its high-quality and free transcriptions, it’s a valuable tool for musicians of all levels.
From Beginner to Pro: The Learning Curve
If you’re a beginner bass player, learning to play a new song can be a daunting task. However, with enough practice and dedication, you can master any song, including “What I Like About You.” Here are some tips to help you along the way:
Start with the Basics
Before you dive into the song, make sure you have a solid foundation of bass playing skills. This includes understanding the basics of music theory, such as scales, chords, and rhythm. Practice these skills regularly to build up your technique and confidence.
Break it Down
When learning a new song, it’s important to break it down into smaller, more manageable parts. Start by learning the main riff or melody, then move on to the chorus and bridge. Practice each part separately until you can play it smoothly, then put it all together.
Use Transcriptions
Transcriptions can be a helpful tool when learning a new song. Look for bass transcriptions of “What I Like About You” online to help guide you through the song. You can also use software to slow down the song and isolate specific parts to practice.
Practice, Practice, Practice
The key to mastering any song is practice. Set aside time each day to work on “What I Like About You” and other songs you’re learning. Practice slowly and gradually increase the tempo as you become more comfortable with the song.
Learn from Others
Don’t be afraid to seek out advice and guidance from other bass players. Join a local bass club or online community to connect with other players and learn from their experiences. You can also watch videos online of other bass players playing “What I Like About You” to pick up new techniques and ideas.
By following these tips and putting in the time and effort, you can go from a beginner bass player to a pro in no time. Happy playing!
The Global Influence of Bass Transcription
Bass transcription has become a global phenomenon, with musicians and enthusiasts from all over the world contributing to the growing body of work. From the United States to France, bass transcriptions have been used to teach, learn, and appreciate the bass guitar.
In France, bass transcription has become an essential tool for bassists looking to improve their skills. Many French bassists have contributed to the field, creating transcriptions of popular songs and sharing them with others. The French bassist, Francis Darizcuren, has published a number of bass transcriptions of classic jazz tunes, which have become popular among bassists in France and beyond.
The influence of bass transcription has also spread to other parts of the world. In the United States, bass transcriptions have been used in music schools and universities to teach students about the bass guitar. The bassist, Adam Blackstone, has created a number of bass transcriptions of popular songs, which have been used in music schools across the country.
The impact of bass transcription has not been limited to just the bass guitar community. Music producers and engineers have also found value in bass transcriptions, using them as a reference when mixing and mastering songs. The ability to see and analyze the bass guitar parts in a song has become an essential tool for music producers and engineers.
bass transcription has become a global phenomenon, with musicians and enthusiasts from all over the world contributing to the growing body of work. From France to the United States, bass transcriptions have been used to teach, learn, and appreciate the bass guitar. The impact of bass transcription has not been limited to just the bass guitar community, with music producers and engineers also finding value in the practice.
Accessing Transcriptions: Store vs. Free
When it comes to accessing bass transcriptions for your favorite songs, you have a few different options. Two of the most common are using a store or accessing free transcriptions. Here’s what you need to know about each option.
Store
One way to access bass transcriptions is through a store. Many music stores, both online and in-person, offer a variety of transcriptions for purchase. These transcriptions are often created by professional transcribers and are typically of high quality.
While purchasing transcriptions can be more expensive than accessing free versions, it can be worth it if you’re looking for accurate and detailed transcriptions. Additionally, purchasing transcriptions supports the work of professional transcribers and helps ensure that they continue to create high-quality transcriptions for musicians.
Free
Another option for accessing bass transcriptions is to use free versions. There are many websites and forums that offer free transcriptions for a variety of songs. These transcriptions are often created by volunteers and may not be as accurate or detailed as those created by professional transcribers.
However, free transcriptions can be a great option if you’re on a budget or just starting out with bass playing. You can also find free bass transcriptions through donations. Many websites and forums accept donations in exchange for access to their transcriptions. This can be a great way to support the work of volunteers while also accessing high-quality transcriptions.
the choice between store and free transcriptions ultimately depends on your personal preferences and needs. Whether you choose to purchase transcriptions or access free versions, there are plenty of options available to help you learn your favorite songs on bass.
The Power of Sheet Music
Sheet music is a valuable resource for musicians of all levels. It provides a visual representation of the notes, rhythms, and dynamics of a piece of music, allowing musicians to learn and perform with accuracy and precision. In the case of “What I Like About You” bass transcription, sheet music can be an invaluable tool for bassists looking to learn the song.
Sheet music typically comes in the form of scores or PDFs, which can be purchased online or at music stores. These resources provide a detailed breakdown of the music, including the key, time signature, tempo, and more. They also include specific instructions on how to play each note, such as fingerings and bowings for string instruments.
One of the benefits of using sheet music is that it allows musicians to play along with the original recording of the song. This can be particularly helpful for bassists who are trying to learn a specific bass line, such as the one in “What I Like About You.” By listening to the recording and following along with the sheet music, bassists can master the song and develop their skills.
Another advantage of sheet music is that it provides a consistent reference for musicians. Unlike learning by ear or through video tutorials, sheet music provides a standardized notation that can be easily shared and understood by other musicians. This can be especially helpful in a band or ensemble setting, where all members need to be on the same page.
sheet music is a powerful tool for musicians, including bassists learning “What I Like About You.” It provides a visual representation of the music, allows for accurate performance, and provides a consistent reference for musicians. Whether you’re a beginner or a professional, sheet music can help you take your playing to the next level.
Conclusion
learning to play the bass part in “What I Like About You” by the Romantics is a fun and rewarding experience for bass players of all skill levels. With the help of the available bass transcriptions, it is possible to learn the song quickly and accurately.
The bass part in this song is simple yet iconic, with a catchy riff that is sure to get stuck in your head. By practicing the bass part regularly, you can develop your skills and improve your overall musicianship.
Additionally, the availability of online resources such as bass transcriptions, instructional videos, and forums make it easier than ever to learn new songs and techniques. By taking advantage of these resources, you can continue to grow and develop as a bass player.
“What I Like About You” is a great song to learn on bass, and with a little practice and dedication, you can master the bass part and add it to your repertoire.
Frequently Asked Questions
How can I find the bass transcription for ‘What I Like About You’?
You can find the bass transcription for ‘What I Like About You’ by searching online on websites like Ultimate Guitar, Songsterr, or TalkBass. These websites offer a variety of bass transcriptions for different songs, including ‘What I Like About You’.
Are there any reliable sources for ‘What I Like About You’ bass tabs?
Yes, there are several reliable sources for ‘What I Like About You’ bass tabs. Ultimate Guitar and Songsterr are popular websites that offer accurate and reliable bass transcriptions for this song.
What are the chords for ‘What I Like About You’?
The chords for ‘What I Like About You’ are E, A, and D. The song follows a simple chord progression, making it easy for beginners to play along.
Can you recommend any resources for transcribing bass lines?
If you’re looking to transcribe bass lines, there are several resources available online. You can check out websites like StudyBass, BassBooks, or BassLessons to learn more about transcribing bass lines and improve your skills.
What is the significance of the ‘H’ in bass tab?
The ‘H’ in bass tab represents a hammer-on. A hammer-on is a technique where you play a note and then hammer your finger onto a higher fret to create a new note without plucking the string again.
How can I identify the bass line in a song?
To identify the bass line in a song, you can listen closely to the rhythm and melody of the song. The bass line typically follows the chord progression of the song and plays a supportive role in the overall sound. You can also search for bass transcriptions online to get a better understanding of the bass line.
