them changes bass tab

New Era

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11-10-2024

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Mastering the Groove: A Deep Dive into "Them Changes" Bass Tab

"Them Changes" by The Buddy Miles Express is a classic soul and funk tune known for its driving rhythm and soulful melody. But for bassists, the real magic lies in the iconic bassline that anchors the song. This deep, funky groove has been covered by countless musicians, cementing its place in musical history.

So, you want to learn this iconic bassline? You've come to the right place! We'll break down the "Them Changes" bass tab, explore its nuances, and offer some tips to help you master this timeless groove.

The Tab: A Breakdown

Here's a simplified version of the "Them Changes" bass tab (taken from this Github repository:

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D|----------------------------------------|
A|----------------------------------------|
E|---0---0---0---0---0---0---0---0---0---0---|

G|----------------------------------------|
D|----------------------------------------|
A|----------------------------------------|
E|---0---0---0---0---0---0---0---0---0---0---|

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D|----------------------------------------|
A|----------------------------------------|
E|---0---0---0---0---0---0---0---0---0---0---|

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A|----------------------------------------|
E|---0---0---0---0---0---0---0---0---0---0---|

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D|----------------------------------------|
A|----------------------------------------|
E|---0---0---0---0---0---0---0---0---0---0---|

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D|----------------------------------------|
A|----------------------------------------|
E|---0---0---0---0---0---0---0---0---0---0---|

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D|----------------------------------------|
A|----------------------------------------|
E|---0---0---0---0---0---0---0---0---0---0---|

G|----------------------------------------|
D|----------------------------------------|
A|----------------------------------------|
E|---0---0---0---0---0---0---0---0---0---0---|

This tab focuses on the core bassline, which is played throughout the entire song. It's a simple yet powerful groove that relies on repetition and subtle variations.

Understanding the Groove

The "Them Changes" bassline is built around a simple root-fifth pattern. This means that the bass plays the root note of the chord and the fifth note of the chord. This pattern creates a strong foundation for the song, giving it a solid, driving rhythm.

What makes this bassline truly stand out is the rhythmic interplay. The bass plays a syncopated rhythm, emphasizing the off-beats. This creates a feeling of anticipation and energy, making the groove incredibly infectious.

Tips for Mastering the "Them Changes" Bassline

• Focus on the Rhythm: The key to playing this bassline well is to get the rhythm absolutely right. Practice the syncopated pattern slowly and gradually increase the tempo.
• Emphasize the Off-Beats: When you play the notes, make sure you emphasize the off-beats. This will create the characteristic feel of the "Them Changes" groove.
• Experiment with Dynamics: While the core bassline is simple, you can add your own flavor by experimenting with different dynamics. Try playing some notes louder, some softer, and experiment with different attacks.
• Learn the Full Song: While the bassline is the foundation, it's important to learn the entire song to understand its context. Listen to the original recording carefully, paying attention to the nuances of the other instruments and the vocal melody.

Conclusion

The "Them Changes" bassline is a timeless classic that every bassist should learn. It's simple, groovy, and powerful, with a captivating rhythm that will keep you moving. By understanding the tab, mastering the rhythm, and adding your own style, you'll be able to bring this iconic groove to life and add your own touch to this soul-stirring song.