: His legendary use of open strings as passing tones to bridge chord changes smoothly.
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).
Notice how he uses chromatic passing tones to connect chord changes. He frequently used unusual melodic note choices that seemed wrong but felt perfect.
If you are looking to specifically study the notation, I can guide you on which songs to start with first or explain the specific rhythmic techniques Jamerson used. Let me know which of his songs is your favorite! Share public link
Standing in the Shadows of Motown: The Essential James Jamerson PDF Guide
is the most influential bass player in modern music history, anchoring the legendary Motown Records house band known as the Funk Brothers. For decades, his genius remained uncredited on global hits by The Temptations, Marvin Gaye, and The Supremes. The seminal book and documentary Standing in the Shadows of Motown by Allan "Dr. Licks" Slutsky finally brought his revolutionary basslines into the spotlight.
James Jamerson Standing In The Shadows Of Motown Pdf [2025]
: His legendary use of open strings as passing tones to bridge chord changes smoothly.
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). james jamerson standing in the shadows of motown pdf
Notice how he uses chromatic passing tones to connect chord changes. He frequently used unusual melodic note choices that seemed wrong but felt perfect. : His legendary use of open strings as
If you are looking to specifically study the notation, I can guide you on which songs to start with first or explain the specific rhythmic techniques Jamerson used. Let me know which of his songs is your favorite! Share public link Notice how he uses chromatic passing tones to
Standing in the Shadows of Motown: The Essential James Jamerson PDF Guide
is the most influential bass player in modern music history, anchoring the legendary Motown Records house band known as the Funk Brothers. For decades, his genius remained uncredited on global hits by The Temptations, Marvin Gaye, and The Supremes. The seminal book and documentary Standing in the Shadows of Motown by Allan "Dr. Licks" Slutsky finally brought his revolutionary basslines into the spotlight.