James Jamerson is the most influential bassist in modern music history. He played on more number-one hits than the Beatles, Beach Boys, Elvis, and the Rolling Stones combined. Yet, for decades, his name remained unknown to the general public.
The first half of the book is an in-depth biography, revealing the tragic life and phenomenal talent of Jamerson.
" by Allan Slutsky is widely considered the definitive resource for studying Jamerson’s revolutionary bass style. james jamerson standing in the shadows of motown pdf
Despite his significant contributions to Motown's success, Jamerson remained largely unknown to the general public. Several factors contributed to his relative anonymity. Firstly, the Motown Corporation, founded by Berry Gordy, focused primarily on promoting its artists, rather than the session musicians who played on their recordings. The label's publicity machine ensured that the likes of Diana Ross, David Ruffin, and Smokey Robinson became household names, while the Funk Brothers, including Jamerson, remained in the background.
The transcriptions aren't just dots on a page; they are accompanied by interviews and musical notes explaining why Jamerson played those notes. James Jamerson is the most influential bassist in
However, this isn't just a book of sheet music; it is a lesson in groove. The accompanying audio (or the downloads that accompany modern editions) is vital. It includes "jam tracks" without the bass, allowing players to step into Jamerson’s shoes. The technical analysis reveals just how revolutionary he was. Before Jamerson, the bass was largely a time-keeping instrument. Jamerson turned it into a melodic voice, introducing syncopation and "ghost notes" that created a polyrhythmic feel previously unknown in pop music.
While the physical book is highly recommended for its interviews, the PDF format is widely sought for convenience. The first half of the book is an
Dr. Licks includes detailed instructions on where to play on the neck (positions), which finger to use (strictly the index finger for most notes), and how to handle the "ghost notes" (the percussive, muted notes that give Motown its texture).
What are you trying to learn right now? What is your current skill level on the bass?
For bassists worldwide, the or physical book is not just a collection of notes; it is a sacred text. This article explores why this book is crucial, the genius of Jamerson, and how to utilize this resource to master the art of the groove. 1. Who Was James Jamerson? The Unsung Hero