Following up on my popular post about the top 5 bass songs for beginners, I’ve had lots of requests for more recommendations. If you’re new to bass guitar, these tracks are fantastic for building fundamentals like timing, finger strength, and groove—without getting too complicated. As a bass tutor in Colchester with over 20 years of experience, I often start students on songs like these to keep things fun and rewarding.
Here are 5 more easy bass songs, each with simple text-based tabs (in standard E-A-D-G tuning) and practice tips. These build on basics like root notes and simple riffs, covering rock, alternative, and funk styles. Grab your bass, play along with the originals, and if you need help refining your technique, book a lesson here—online or in-person!
1. Another One Bites the Dust – Queen
This funky rock classic has a repetitive riff that’s perfect for locking in with a drummer or metronome.
Main Riff Tab:
Tips: Focus on even quarter notes muting for that punchy sound. Start slow at 60 BPM and speed up. Great for endurance and funk feel!
2. Come As You Are – Nirvana
A grungy, sliding line that’s forgiving for new players and teaches finger mechanics. Note that this tab is in standard tuning, the original recording is tuned a whole step down (D G C F)
Verse Riff Tab:
Tips: Use your index finger for the first fret on E and then your middle finger for the second fret. Ideal for alternative rock fans.
3. Feel Good Inc. – Gorillaz
This modern hip-hop/rock hybrid that oozes feel with a bouncy groove. Click here for the bass tab.
Tips: Use alternate plucking fingers for smoothness (index finger on your right hand, then your middle.) Listen for the off-beat accents to nail the rhythm. Fun for experimenting with effects!
4. Billie Jean – Michael Jackson
A pop-funk staple with a walking bass line that emphasizes root-fifth patterns.
Tips: Tap your foot to stay in the pocket—focus on the upbeat feel. Excellent for developing pop groove and muting techniques.
5. Crazy – Gnarls Barkley
A soulful, funky groove with a repetitive pattern that’s excellent for beginners to practice steady rhythm and basic string shifts.
Main Riff Tab:
Tips: Use alternating fingers for plucking to maintain the funky bounce. Start at a slower tempo (around 80 BPM) and focus on muting to keep it clean. Perfect for developing groove in soul/R&B styles.
These songs are accessible yet challenging enough to show real progress after a few sessions. Try practicing 10-15 minutes daily, recording yourself to spot improvements. They span genres, so pick one that matches your taste and expand from there.
Struggling with any of these? My bass lessons (in Colchester or online via Zoom) include personalized feedback and my starter program to get you jamming fast. Head to the bass lessons page or contact me for a free chat. What’s your go-to beginner bass song? Drop it in the comments!
Keep grooving,
Paul Burke