If you’re a bass player, there is one name that stands above the rest when it comes to the Motown sound: James Jamerson. His work on Stevie Wonder’s 1967 classic, “I Was Made to Love Her,” is widely considered one of the greatest bass performances in music history.
In McMusic Lessons & Performances latest video lesson, we break down the iconic intro riff and that tricky transition that sets the stage for the entire song. Whether you’re looking to improve your finger coordination or just want to add some Motown soul to your playing, this guide is for you.
Why This Bass Line is a Masterclass
James Jamerson didn’t just play root notes; he created a melodic counterpoint to Stevie Wonder’s vocals. The intro sets the tone with a syncopated, driving feel that requires a mix of precision and “soul.”
1. The Main Riff (F)
The lesson starts with the foundational F riff [00:24]. To get that authentic sound, you need to focus on:
- The Hammer-on: You’ll pluck the note, hammer on, and pluck again to create that “bouncing” rhythm [00:44].
- The Open String: Integrating the open D string allows for a smooth movement back to the G string [00:58].
2. The Transition to the 5th Fret
One of the most challenging parts of this intro is the transition into the next part of the song [01:32]. At the 5th fret on the G string, the movement involves:
- Coordination: A combination of pluck, pull-off, and hammering onto the 3rd fret [01:41].
- Finger Economy: We break down why only plucking three specific notes is the secret to keeping the speed and fluidity of the line [02:12].
3. Locking in the Rhythm
Timing is everything in Motown. In the video, we practice counting through the riff slowly: “1 and 2 and a 3 and 4” [02:38]. Mastering this subdivision is what separates a beginner from a player who can truly “pocket” the groove.
Watch the Full Lesson
Ready to get your fingers moving? Watch the full tutorial below to see these techniques in action and play along with us slowly [03:30].
Watch the Video: I Was Made to Love Her Intro Bass Lesson
Key Takeaways for Your Practice Session:
- Loop the Riff: Even though Jamerson only plays the intro riff twice before transitioning, practice looping it continuously [01:21] to build muscle memory.
- Focus on Pull-Offs: The transition is all about the “pluck-pull-off” coordination [01:41].
- Slow it Down: Don’t rush! Use the slow-motion breakdown at the end of the video [03:30] to ensure every note is clean.
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