How to Play Beats 2 and 4 of the Recurring Bass Groove in ‘Billie Jean’ by Michael Jackson

Introduction:

Mastering the iconic bass groove in Michael Jackson's Billie Jean is a rite of passage for any bass player. The recurring bass line, particularly the rhythmic accents on beats 2 and 4, is both deceptively simple and incredibly effective. This article will guide you on how to achieve this beat-by-beat. We'll explore the techniques used by bassist Adam Rafferty in the song, focusing on slap and pop techniques that define the sound of this legendary track.

The Importance of the Repeating Groove in 'Billie Jean'

A. The Role of the Repeating Bass Line

The bass line in 'Billie Jean' serves as the rhythmic backbone of the song. It is a simple, yet powerful melody that forms the foundation on which the entire track is built. The continuous and repeated nature of the bass line, especially on beats 2 and 4, emphasizes the song's infectious groove and propels the listener into a danceable rhythm. This repeating pattern provides a steady foundation for the drums, guitar, and vocals, creating a seamless and energizing experience.

B. Historical Context and Development

The bass line in 'Billie Jean' is a perfect example of how rhythm techniques have evolved in popular music, particularly in the RB genre. The use of slap bass, a technique that involves flicking the strings with the thumb to produce a sharp, popping sound, was a hallmark of serious bass players in the 1980s. This technique, along with the pop technique (where the bassist flicks the strings with the index finger), are integral to achieving the distinct sound of the track.

Understanding the Bass Notes and Technique

1. The Bass Notes D and A

The bass notes you'll be working with are D and A. These notes are crucial as they form the foundation of the bass line. To play these notes, you need to develop a strong, accurate finger placement and use the correct finger and thumb techniques.

2. The 'Slap' Technique

The 'slap' technique is a key component of the bass playing in 'Billie Jean'. This technique involves flicking the strings with your thumb, creating a sharp, percussive sound. The sound is often associated with the pop or slap sound coming from the bass, which gives it its distinctive character. Here’s a step-by-step guide on how to execute the slap technique:

Posture and Grip: Ensure that your bass is securely held and that your playing posture is comfortable and relaxed. Hand Position: Position your hand so that your thumb is ready to flick the string. Thumping Performance: For the slap technique, flick the string with your thumb, aiming to produce a sharp, pronounced sound. The palm of your hand should be positioned correctly to allow for this flicking motion. Timing and Accuracy: Practice hitting the string at the precise moment to coincide with the beats in the song. The key is to maintain timing and consistency.

Here’s a simple exercise to perfect your slap technique:

Bass Line Exercise: (D A D A)Slap: Slap Slap Slap Slap

3. The 'Click' Sound

The click sound, often created by the bassist's thumb or hand, adds another layer of complexity to the bass line. This sound is usually produced by the bassist tapping the string with their thumb or tapping it against the side of the bass guitar. Here’s how to add this to your performance:

Thumb Movement: Use your thumb to tap the string, creating a sharp, clicking sound. The click should be prominent and rhythmic. Palm Action: Alternatively, you can use your palm to tap the string, producing a similar rattling click sound. This can be used to add even more dynamic layers to the track.

Combining the slap and click techniques will give your bass playing in 'Billie Jean' a richer and more expressive sound.

Putting It All Together

Now that you have a good grasp of the individual techniques, it's time to put them together and practice playing the bass line in 'Billie Jean' on a full backing track. Here are a few tips to help you integrate the slap and click techniques effectively:

Timing: Pay close attention to the timing and synchronization of the slap and click sounds with the rest of the song. This will ensure that your bass playing complements the overall rhythm and melody. Varying Pressure: Experiment with varying the pressure applied during both the slap and click techniques. This can help you achieve different tonal qualities and add more dynamics to your playing. Practice and Repetition: Consistent practice is key to becoming proficient in these techniques. Repetition will help you achieve the necessary speed and accuracy.

Conclusion

Mastering the bass groove in 'Billie Jean' by Michael Jackson requires both technical skill and an understanding of the song's context. By focusing on the slap and click techniques, you can bring your bass playing to life and contribute significantly to the power and energy of the track. With consistent practice, you'll be able to command the stage like Adam Rafferty, adding a new dimension to your bass playing journey.