If you’re a bass player, chances are you’ve heard of “Crazy Train” by Ozzy Osbourne. This iconic song features one of the most recognizable basslines in rock history. In this article, we’ll take a closer look at the bass tabs for “Crazy Train” and provide you with some tips and tricks for mastering this classic riff.
Getting Started: Understanding the Basics of the Bass Tabs for “Crazy Train”
Before we dive into the specifics of the “Crazy Train” bassline, let’s review some basic terminology you’ll need to understand in order to read bass tabs. First and foremost, it’s important to note that bass tabs are written on a four-string bass guitar, with the bottom string (the thickest one) being the E string, followed by the A, D, and G strings. Each line on the tab represents a string, and numbers on the lines correspond to the frets you should play. For example, a “0” on the E string means you should play the open E string, while a “1” on the A string means you should press down on the first fret of the A string with your left hand.
Breaking Down the “Crazy Train” Bassline: A Section-by-Section Guide
Now that you have a basic understanding of how to read bass tabs, let’s take a closer look at the “Crazy Train” bassline. The bassline for this song is broken down into several sections, so we’ll tackle each one individually to give you a better understanding of how they all fit together.
Intro
The intro to “Crazy Train” features a simple, yet powerful riff that sets the tone for the rest of the song. The bassline consists of four notes played in quick succession: G (3rd fret on the E string), A (5th fret on the E string), Bb (6th fret on the E string), and C (8th fret on the E string). The key to nailing this riff is to keep your fingers close to the fretboard and use your index and middle fingers to pluck the strings.
Verse
The verse of “Crazy Train” features a more melodic bassline that follows the chord progression of the song. The bassline starts with a series of quarter-note rests, followed by a descending riff that goes from the E (open E string) to the D (3rd fret on the A string), and then to the C (3rd fret on the A string). From there, the bassline follows the chords of the song, with the most prominent notes being the root notes of each chord (G, D, A, and C).
Chorus
The chorus of “Crazy Train” features a more driving bassline that provides a strong foundation for the rest of the instruments. The bassline follows a simple pattern that starts with a series of eighth-note rests, followed by a riff that goes from the E (open E string) to the G (3rd fret on the E string), and then to the A (5th fret on the E string). From there, the bassline follows the same chord progression as the verse, with the root notes of each chord being the most prominent.
Bridge
The bridge of “Crazy Train” features a more complex bassline that incorporates a lot of movement up and down the fretboard. The bassline starts with a series of quarter-note rests, followed by a riff that goes from the B (2nd fret on the A string) to the C (3rd fret on the A string), and then to the D (5th fret on the A string). From there, the bassline follows a descending pattern that goes from the C (3rd fret on the A string) to the Bb (1st fret on the A string), and then to the A (open A string). The bridge ends with a riff that goes from the G (8th fret on the D string) to the F# (6th fret on the D string), and then to the E (open E string).
Tips and Tricks for Mastering the “Crazy Train” Bassline
Now that you have a better understanding of the “Crazy Train” bass tabs, here are some tips and tricks to help you master this iconic riff:
Start Slow
One of the most important things you can do when learning any new piece of music is to start slow. Use a metronome to keep a steady tempo and gradually increase your speed as you become more comfortable with the notes and rhythms.
Practice with a Drum Track
To really get a feel for the groove of the “Crazy Train” bassline, practice playing along with a drum track. This will help you lock in with the rhythm section and develop a strong sense of timing.
Focus on Your Technique
When playing any complex bassline, it’s important to focus on your technique. Make sure you’re using proper finger placement and try to minimize excess movement in your hands and fingers. This will help you play more efficiently and with greater accuracy.
The Bottom Line
The “Crazy Train” bassline is a true classic that every bass player should have in their repertoire. By following the tips and tricks outlined in this article, you can master this iconic riff and add it to your arsenal of bass skills. So grab your bass, fire up your amp, and let’s get rocking!