Step-by-Step Bass Tutorial

Bass Guitar Modes Explained Simply (With Audio & TAB)

Understand musical modes on bass guitar: Dorian funk, Phrygian metal tension, Lydian brightness, and Mixolydian blues pull.

Step-by-Step Practice Guide

Step 1

Every mode is a rotation of the major scale starting on a different degree (Ionian to Locrian).

Step 2

Compare the natural 6th of Dorian against the flat 2nd of Phrygian for dark mood shades.

Step 3

Major 3rd with a flat 7th creates the signature groove of funk, blues, and classic rock.

Step 4

Choose modes based on the chord family rather than thinking about the parent major scale key signature.

Major Scale Parent Framework

Every mode is a rotation of the major scale starting on a different degree (Ionian to Locrian).

Minor Modes (Dorian, Phrygian, Aeolian)

Compare the natural 6th of Dorian against the flat 2nd of Phrygian for dark mood shades.

Dominant Mode (Mixolydian)

Major 3rd with a flat 7th creates the signature groove of funk, blues, and classic rock.

Application in Basslines

Choose modes based on the chord family rather than thinking about the parent major scale key signature.