Introduction
If you’re a bassist and a fan of rock music, you’ve probably heard of Bulls on Parade by Rage Against the Machine. This iconic song features an instantly recognizable bassline that has inspired countless bass players. In this article, we’ll take a closer look at how to play Bulls on Parade bass tab.
Understanding the Basics of Bulls on Parade Bass Tab
Before we dive into the specifics of how to play Bulls on Parade bass tab, let’s take a moment to understand some of the basics. The song is played in drop D tuning, meaning that the lowest string on your bass guitar (usually the E string) is tuned down to D. This gives the song its distinctive low-end sound.
The Opening Riff
The opening riff of Bulls on Parade is perhaps the most recognizable part of the song. It’s a simple but effective bassline that sets the tone for the rest of the track. To play this riff, you’ll need to start on the 7th fret of the A string, and then slide up to the 9th fret. From there, you’ll play the 5th fret of the D string, followed by the 7th fret of the A string again.
The Verse
After the opening riff, Bulls on Parade moves into the verse section. This part of the song is built around a repeating bassline that’s played over and over again. To play the verse section, you’ll need to start on the 7th fret of the E string, and then slide up to the 9th fret. From there, you’ll play the 7th fret of the A string, followed by the 5th fret of the D string.
The Chorus
The chorus of Bulls on Parade is where the song really kicks into high gear. The bassline is more complex than in the verse, and it adds an extra layer of energy to the track. To play the chorus, you’ll need to start on the 5th fret of the E string, and then slide up to the 7th fret. From there, you’ll play the 7th fret of the A string, followed by the 5th fret of the D string.
The Bridge
The bridge of Bulls on Parade is where the song takes a brief break from its frenetic energy. The bassline here is much simpler than in the other sections, but it still adds a lot of depth to the song. To play the bridge, you’ll need to start on the 3rd fret of the E string, and then play the 5th fret of the A string. Repeat this pattern a few times before moving on.
The Outro
The outro of Bulls on Parade is a great example of how a simple bassline can be incredibly effective. To play the outro, you’ll need to start on the 5th fret of the E string, and then play the 7th fret of the A string. Repeat this pattern a few times before ending on the 5th fret of the E string.
Tips for Playing Bulls on Parade Bass Tab
Now that we’ve gone through the various sections of Bulls on Parade bass tab, let’s take a look at some tips for playing the song effectively. First and foremost, it’s important to practice each section of the song individually before trying to play the entire thing all the way through. This will help you get comfortable with each part of the bassline.
Another important tip is to pay attention to your timing. Bulls on Parade is a fast-paced song, and it’s easy to get off track if you’re not careful. Make sure you’re playing each note at the right time and keeping a steady rhythm throughout the song.
Finally, don’t be afraid to put your own spin on the song. While it’s important to learn the bassline as it’s written, there’s also room for interpretation and improvisation. Get creative with your playing and experiment until you find a style that works for you.
Conclusion
Bulls on Parade by Rage Against the Machine is a classic rock song that has inspired countless bass players over the years. By learning how to play the bass tab for this iconic track, you’ll not only improve your skills as a musician but also get a chance to play one of the most recognizable basslines in rock history. So grab your bass guitar, tune it to drop D, and get ready to rock out with Bulls on Parade.