Introduction
If you’re a beginner bass player looking for an iconic song to learn, you can’t go wrong with ‘Pumped Up Kicks’ by Foster the People. This catchy tune features a simple yet infectious bassline that’s sure to get your toes tapping. In this guide, we’ll break down the ‘Pumped Up Kicks’ bass tab step-by-step, so you can master this classic tune in no time.
The Basics
Before you dive into the ‘Pumped Up Kicks’ bass tab, it’s important to understand a few basic concepts. First, you’ll need to know how to read tablature, or ‘tab’ for short. Tablature is a system of notation that shows you which frets to play on your bass guitar. Each number represents a fret, and the lines represent the strings. For example, a ‘3’ on the top line means to play the third fret on the G string.
You’ll also need to understand rhythm notation. The ‘Pumped Up Kicks’ bass tab uses a combination of quarter notes, eighth notes, and rests. A quarter note is held for one beat, while an eighth note is held for half a beat. A rest indicates that you should not play anything for a certain amount of time.
The Verse
The ‘Pumped Up Kicks’ bass tab starts with the verse, which features a simple but effective bassline. The verse is played in a 4/4 time signature with a moderate tempo. Here’s the tab:
G|---------------------------|D|---------------------------|A|-3-3-3-3-3-3-3-3-3-3-3-3-3-|E|---------------------------|
As you can see, the verse bassline consists of a repeating pattern of three notes played on the A string (fret 3). Make sure to keep a steady rhythm and tempo throughout the verse.
The Chorus
The chorus of ‘Pumped Up Kicks’ features a more complex bassline that adds some variety to the song. Here’s the tab for the chorus:
G|--------------------------------|D|-5-5-5-5-5-5-5-5-7-7-7-7-7-7-7-7-|A|--------------------------------|E|--------------------------------|
As you can see, the chorus bassline starts on the D string with a series of five notes played on fret 5. The pattern then shifts up to fret 7 for a series of seven notes. Make sure to practice this section slowly at first to build up speed and accuracy.
The Bridge
The bridge section of ‘Pumped Up Kicks’ features a simple but effective bassline that adds some tension to the song. Here’s the tab:
G|------------------------|D|------------------------|A|-------3--5-5-3-3--------|E|-3-3-3--------------5-5-|
As you can see, the bridge bassline consists of a repeating pattern of notes played on the A and E strings. Make sure to pay attention to the rhythm and timing of this section, as it’s crucial for building tension before the final chorus.
The Outro
The outro of ‘Pumped Up Kicks’ features a simple bassline that gradually fades out. Here’s the tab:
G|-----------|D|-----------|A|-3-3-3-3-3-|E|-----------|
As you can see, the outro bassline consists of a repeating pattern of three notes played on the A string. Make sure to gradually decrease the volume as you reach the end of the song.
Conclusion
Congratulations! You’ve now learned the complete ‘Pumped Up Kicks’ bass tab. Remember to take your time and practice each section slowly at first, gradually building up speed and accuracy. With enough practice, you’ll be able to play this catchy tune like a pro. Keep on rockin’!