Bass Teacher REACTS | Guns N' Roses - "Sweet Child O' Mine" | Duff McKagan

[@RDog4484]

I’m just realizing now how much of a *massive* impact learning this song in my formative years had on my playing style. Duff was/is such an underrated bass player.

[@LowEndUniversity]

Truly! It's like it contains all the bass "rudiments" - each little fill is something I stole and reused later on for other songs. Some staples for sure!

[@LEO1WOLF]

Heh-heh, underrated, Duff? I've never heard someone say "he's o.k., or just average". Then again, I am a Duff fan boy & a fan of HIS fans - - ROCK ON y'all! 🤘🤟🤘🤟🤘🤟😎

[@jencrowson]

It definitely tought me to "feel out" my runs instead of just looking for the arpeggio or chords. He has such a punchy, steady groove too.

[@mechaplatypus82]

I'm a guitar player, but this song and Duff's bass taught me how to play and write bass fills.

[@travisstafford397]

Appetite was one of my practice LPs, I’d just hit play and learn every track Londons Calling was my other big one.

[@shanesmith2853]

Duff's bass in Rocket Queen is one of the most memorable moments on Appetite for Destruction to me. His recent work with Iggy Pop totally kicks ass too!

[@BillyBong]

Duff is such an underrated bassist that no one ever talks about. I feel like he's a top 10

[@christee5772]

Appetite.. is such a brilliant album, didn't think I'd still be listening to it nearly 40 years. After learning the majority of the bass I think it's a perfect example of how bass and drums work together. This song was played to death when they eventually broke through into the mainstream so like a lot of rock fans wrote it off as a cheese (certainly not the best track off the album) but coming back to learn it gave me a new appreciation of it.

[@jasonberezny9705]

Duff is a huge fan of punk rock. I’d say gnr have a lot punk music influences in a few ways. Duff is a meat and potatoes with a natural ear for melody. Great bass player.

[@jthompson5341]

You mention Duff’s bass fills, being like a drummers fills. It’s because Duff was a drummer, started out playing drums in punk bands, and maybe that’s why his bass fills have that drum rhythm style of fills

[@mikeb.7183]

That is exactly why his bass fills match the drums so well. Him and Steven practiced together a lot before going into the studio. They worked out everything without the band in the room.

[@JoeStanek-vu7rl]

The Farts and the Accused.

[@Michael-e6d1i]

(16:41) I'm reminded of a quote attributed to Eddie Van Halen: "To hell with the rules. If it sounds right, then it is". Nice breakdown of the song and good channel. All the best.

[@BiggieSmallpox]

Congrats on the 100th episode bro! Pretty sure I’ve watch all of them so far. I got hurt last year, and been stuck in bed for 8 months so I always look forward to your videos. It’s been the most happy and positive comment section I’ve seen in a long time. Thanks again.

[@LowEndUniversity]

Thank you man, that means a lot! I hope you've recovered and are back on your feet now! 🙏🏼

[@Algo1]

As a drummer first, I'll NEVER UNHEAR that "wrong" hi-hat entrance, in fact I'll incorporate it when I play it. Thanks.

[@LowEndUniversity]

Was this your first time hearing that? If so...you're welcome! 😅

[@Algo1]

@@LowEndUniversity I guess my ears filtered it out for all my life 🤣

[@LowEndUniversity]

Oh dear, what have I done?? 😇

[@Slashovic]

Duff Mc Kagan wrote such incredible and underrated bass lines like on Paradise City, Rocket Queen or You Could Be Mine

[@LowEndUniversity]

💯💯💯

[@seanmckelvey6618]

I'm a guitar player who "dabbles" in bass, but Duff has always stood out as a super tasteful player to me. Really enjoyed this breakdown.

[@Gary-td5xo]

That bass intro sets the emotional tone for the song. I recently learned to play it and that's what struck me. It's a beautiful, lyrical passage.

[@gr8avocado]

Duff is who made 14 year old me want to play bass. The first time I heard Welcome to the Jungle back in 87'-88' I knew I wanted to be a bassist. Thank you Duff!

[@LowEndUniversity]

You and me both, I was also 14 😎

[@n.d.s.5026]

As a little girl in Italy in '88-'89 (I was 11-12) older guys asked me the silliest questions when they saw me wearing my g'n'r t-shirts or necklaces, thinking I didn't know my shit. Poor them, they always thought I was into the band because I fancied Axl. But it was Duff and his fucking bass all along. I still get goosebumps upon hearing some of his riffs..

[@LowEndUniversity]

Yes! Epic comment! Same for me, the intro of “Civil War” is a big one that always grabs me.

[@zhegwood]

I got this tape for my 12th birthday back in '88. I've since worn out two tapes and a CD listening to this album. All-time top-5 for sure.

[@RobbieFitzgerald]

One thing Ive noticed is that every band Slash is a part of, the bass is always loud and clear. AND interesting as hell. Even as a guitar player first, I appreciate this so much about him.

[@LowEndUniversity]

I absolutely love his solo records. Loved Myles already from AB but songs like “The Dissident” are just melodic genius to me. Bass is really clear on those, too!

[@RobbieFitzgerald]

@@LowEndUniversity Yes. Todd is a fantastic player too. You should break down one of their songs!

[@LowEndUniversity]

I’ll see what I can do!!

[@MitchHampton-o5w]

My guy!! Congrats and keep posting. Love these videos and going back for older ones.

[@LowEndUniversity]

Thanks! Will do! 🙏🏼

[@JoneyJefe]

I WAS THERE AT EXIT 111. Saw Watermox (front row right in front of the bassist) and later G&R! It was SO cold! What a great event. Duff really holds that band together, literally.

[@FreshRumblePie]

I don't even play bass but for some reason I find this channel the most interesting thing. Keep them coming!

[@LowEndUniversity]

Shucks, thanks James!! Appreciate you being here.

[@EastTexasPatriot]

Dude!… It is figgin amazing to hear you break down a song I’ve heard a gozillion times! 🔥🤦🏼‍♂️ I clearly don’t have your ear, and that’s what makes your ability very gravitating! 😎

[@DobleDenyer]

look man your channel is so good, it made me switch back from guitar to bass again

[@LowEndUniversity]

Hahaha. My master plan is working! 😈😇

[@CraigPlaysGuitar]

I'm more of a punk bassist but I actually think this song is a perfect example of good rock bass. It's interesting, it moves, but it never distracts.

[@LowEndUniversity]

Wish I’d thought of that point in the video, really great. Totally. It flies everywhere, is very loud in the mix, but never steals the show outside of the intro lead. It’s an art form.

[@musickf]

This was so cool. It reminded me of when The Charismatic Voice did a reaction to her own performance of a song she did years ago. I could see you getting lost in the nostalgia of playing, while just jamming along to one of your favorite songs. It's very easy to see how much of a connection you have to this one. It was like you sharing a little of your personal life and history. Very touching and really cool to hear your analysis of it. And yes, now that I've heard the drum "mistake", I can't unhear it lol.

[@LowEndUniversity]

Thank you! Definitely brings back some memories going through this one. Appreciate the nice words, and sorry I got the drum track permanently in your head now! 😅

[@ZeGarrepito]

Excellent video, my friend. Gn'R was so piviotal for me when I first started playing bass. That bass intro is pure magic.

[@LowEndUniversity]

Garrett! Thanks pal - hope you’re well!

[@jasonberezny9705]

Smooth, organic, melodic bass lines highlighting Slash’s guitar riffs and solos perfectly. Great album throughout.🤘🎶🇨🇦

[@RobertEleuteri-fj8fp]

I’ll never forget seeing them open for Aerosmith in Philly in the late 80s and Axl dive into the crowd and start punching someone ha ha ha. I’ve always felt Bob Daisley and Duff are totally underrated. Their basslines are so tasteful regardless of how easy or hard they are to play. Appetite kept metal going in the late 80s, imo.

[@AtomizedSound]

I play keys on this song in a cover band and it’s such a fun time. A classic song through and through

[@LowEndUniversity]

Absolutely!

[@LEO1WOLF]

❤ LOVE this breakdown Pally & your tone is as sick as Duff's!

[@LowEndUniversity]

Cheers, thank you!

[@michtarragon4665]

I've always loved Duff's tone and musicianship in G&R!

[@jeanchristophevalossiere]

He's the bass slash

[@ericdrager6281]

I knew it was only a matter of time until you got to this one. Very fun to play, even though I don’t know it note for note. But because he doesn’t repeat, it’s very freeing. I’d like to recommend Marco Hietala formerly of Nightwish and the song The Carpenter. Specifically live in Buenos Aires 2018. It’s a lesser known song but in this performance Marco takes a page from Duff’s book and never really repeats anything. And bonus points, he’s a Warwick artist!

[@danlewis4886]

Duff is the reason i picked up the bass.

[@LowEndUniversity]

I quickly gravitated to different influences once I got going, but it was essentially him and JPJ that gave me the bug beforehand! 🤘🏼

[@bedroomarcade3160]

Appetite for destruction was one of my first punk influences. Listen to end of paradise city. My Michelle.

[@LowEndUniversity]

"My Michelle" is an underrated one. The same high school band I showed also did that one, but we changed the lyrics to "Well, well, well, Mark Michell" in the chorus...hehe.

[@bedroomarcade3160]

@@LowEndUniversity awesome stuff. Love watching you go down this road.

[@bedroomarcade3160]

@@LowEndUniversity oh yeah Duff was in a real punk band. I think as a drummer. Check it out. It's actually content that would compliment a video I'm sure.

[@LowEndUniversity]

I feel like I heard that before too, I’ll look it up!

[@ultra4suzukisamurai679]

Been listening to that album since it came out. So good all the way through.

[@k-ondoomer]

Duff is a top bassist pick for me. It sounds like he was a huge influence to rex brown of pantera. Incredible album

[@jonathanbarb5516]

nice distinction about the fills (drum and bass). Did you know Duff was the drummer for the punk band The Fastbacks in the 80s before GnR? Might be partially responsible for some of his stylings

[@LowEndUniversity]

You know, that rings a bell and probably from reading Slash’s book about 10 years ago. I believe it! It’s almost as if he’s playing drum fills linearly in the song, and just adding notes to them. To memorize this one note-for-note is a feat!

[@ryansisco7258]

Have you ever reacted to The Smiths? Andy Rourke is my favorite bass player and I'm glad that I got to meet him as a kid. I think it would be cool if you reacted to his bass playing and tone. He has some popular bass lines that everyone will suggest, but I would like to see you react to The Headmaster Ritual or The Queen Is Dead. These are some songs that made me want to play bass. RIP Andy Rourke!

[@stefanodegerome5586]

3:12 I really like your bass sound here, it sounds deliciously drive'y. Might I ask what kind of preamp and/or overdrive effect you're using?

[@LowEndUniversity]

Thanks! It’s all through a Line 6 Helix. I have this exact tone preset for download over on Patreon if you’re interested!

[@alextinu8841]

Ok, for me Civil Was has an amazing bass line. After years of "hearing" the music, the older I get I begin to "listen" to the instruments in a song. Great work! ❤️👀🎸

[@LowEndUniversity]

That’s probably my favorite GNR song, I almost did that one instead! I just have so much history with this one and it was a blast to revisit at the “analysis” level.

[@fasterdays]

Man, I wish you would've posted the Cigar video here, such a badass band and an amazing bass player, the band could've used the visibility :(

[@LowEndUniversity]

I'll circle back, and do one on KZbin the next round!

[@blazeesq2000]

I always slide up to the 17th fret on the A string for the D G F# lick. I swear that's how it goes. There is a slide there. If I am wrong, I still like how it sounds that way.

[@FurandFowl9]

1th fret? Mike Tyson is that you? 🤔

[@blazeesq2000]

@@FurandFowl9 Thanks for pointing out the typo. 17th fret.

[@FurandFowl9]

@@blazeesq2000 I couldn't help myself

[@boxenrider7981]

I've never been really trained in music theory, and this is the type of song that just goes to show. You don't have to stick to fury to write music. As a bassist. I've always just written what sounded good. Probably not always in the key. Hell. The bands I've been in probably have written songs that switch keys constantly because we just write rifts and do whatever

[@davidferrand878]

Duff is a punk rocker!!!

[@jvalenzh]

Cool video! Btw, you had a great singer in high school!

[@LowEndUniversity]

Oh thanks!

[@k5fam195]

Congrats on the 100!! Now cover keasby nights by streetlight manifesto

[@LowEndUniversity]

Thank you so much! Coming back to them very soon!

[@adambidas9425]

If you want lyrical or singable bass parts. Vulfpeck- dean town. Live versions the crowd sings the entire bass part. Would loved to see an analysis with your knowledge.

[@LowEndUniversity]

That one is on the list for the near future, can’t wait!

[@jeffreycompton9827]

Duff was briefly in a hardcore punk band called "The Fartz" and they are pretty great.

[@peter10245]

How did Duff developed that Bassline ? It really sticks out and is a melody in the Intro with the Vocals like you said.

[@jcburn1973]

Nice upload man. I've watched your channel for quite some time and not commented yet but I really like your tone - especially for this song. I can see what you used in your signal chain but would you mind sharing roughly what you have set up in the Helix Stomp to produce the gritty bright tone? EDIT ALERT.....I just watched where you post your Helix tone link :-)

[@LowEndUniversity]

Thanks so much, glad you dig it! 😎

[@bradami1234]

Duff is so underrated .. and AFD is giant of an album great from start to end... Side note from what i heard was because duff was punk influenced he rarely did slides hammeron he played every note. Or the vast majority.. i could be mistaken..

[@Zetsubou515]

I went to a show last night, a GREAT band by the name Big Business; A two piece drum and bass. I would love to see your take on them.

[@rdukie]

What place did you get in the beauty pageant?

[@LowEndUniversity]

1st place, by a landslide

[@JoneyJefe]

@@LowEndUniversitybecause your brother was one of the judges.

[@AvivMoshe]

You are soooo good!

[@mgmatecki]

Check out Duff's new interview with the podcast "Broken Record"... I did the other day, great timing 🤘🍻

[@LowEndUniversity]

Nice, had no idea he was doing one. I'll look it up!

[@Veritas-TheGoader]

2:40 When it is a Duff or Jamerson’s bass line

[@keiffermilford8866]

Your highschool bands singer was sick!

[@LowEndUniversity]

He’s great. He’s also the guy in the middle on the 2019 photo. Been playing music with him as long as I can remember, a true talent!

[@JoneyJefe]

His classmates still claim the whole performance was lip syncing

[@Exera80]

You should really check out this Norwegian band called Motorpsycho, they have a beast of a bass player / singer /songwriter.

[@bigkduo5415]

How bout some psychobilly love for that sweet slap doublebass action… my vote is for “Revenge” by Mad Sin

[@diamondback3916]

Please do bricks by crimpshrine

[@DShaneSands]

Been loving your videos. You should check out Authority Zero - Find Your Way Bass line is pretty great

[@LowEndUniversity]

Thank you! I’ll see what I can do!

[@kmsajikage]

check out goldfinger - here in your bedroom

[@jzoomradog583]

I don't know what you just said dude, but I like it!

[@Canteen926]

I don’t think he thought about theory, he just has the natural instincts of a dynamic but functional bass player. I’ll take that over an over educated person with analytical strategies any day.

[@christopherkamer3262]

If its in your consideration, i've never seen anybody analyze Van Halen's bass lines. I would choose either Hang Em High, Push Come to Shove, or Light Up The Sky.

[@LowEndUniversity]

That could be fun! I'll see what I can do.

[@ethnofalcon]

You should check out Joe Dart and Vulfpeck if you want to see a crowd remember and sing a bass line. Dean Town. Congrats on your channel's progress.

[@LowEndUniversity]

Hey, thanks for that! I did “It Gets Funkier, IV” awhile back and been meaning to check out “Dean Town”, plan to soon! Had a few requests for it.

[@ethnofalcon]

@@LowEndUniversity Right on! I just watched that one. I'm more of a funk guy than a punk or metal guy, so it's great to see you checking them out. Dart is like new millennium Jaco, so wonderful to listen to. Rock on, man!

[@brianfernald8741]

Love your content. A recommendation for an underrated 90's band reaction. Ned's Atomic Dustbin - Kill Your Television.

[@Veritas-TheGoader]

7:10 Don’t clash with Slash

[@antimatter2380]

"Dirty" rock and roll for me was never obscene sex driven lyrics, gritty over driven guitars, or booming backseat with crazy fills. Dirty was always rebellion against perfection. That the whole thing could come unglued at any second. It's music volatility that somehow just stays stable enough to make it to the end.

[@LowEndUniversity]

Love the way you put this - great point!

[@ThundersMcCoy]

Duff's playing is tasty as fuck. It's a shame how little credit he and especially Steven get for the overall sound of GnR. He also uses the absolute best bass ever made. A MIJ Fender Jazz special.

[@LowEndUniversity]

I agree. I think Izzy got it the worst as far as that goes. He’s what made the songs beautiful, in my eyes.

[@ThundersMcCoy]

@@LowEndUniversity Without a doubt. The only reason I didn't include him was because the video was about bass & drums. You should look into Hanoi Rocks. They were one of the best rock bands ever & a huge influence on GnR.

[@TheBassomar]

Izzy Stradlin just as important as Slash. Song writer❤. Duff is awesome too

[@danielglassford8596]

Why does this video have like 20 commercials in 17 min video. 😂 Great video maybe tune down the ads a bit.

[@Carlos-bn2vv]

Pentatonic - of C?

[@LowEndUniversity]

?

[@Carlos-bn2vv]

@@LowEndUniversity Sorry, of G (F-) our four note of C

[@Carlos-bn2vv]

@@LowEndUniversity i am Sorry for my inglish

[@LowEndUniversity]

No worries, just unsure of your question!

[@k5fam195]

Is their a drummer that breaks down drums like you do with bass??

[@LowEndUniversity]

I think Drumeo is your best bet, considering it's usually the actual drummer doing it!

[@robertpoljak]

Hey Mark. Such an amazing chanel 💪👍 Please check another Duff's great playing on Velvet Revolver - American Man 😉🤘

[@MrSneaksful]

Duff and Adler.

[@oldmanjenkins3850]

Such a great rhythm section

[@theageingpunker4547]

Your end of the video was the best part. I've never watched a pick apart video before. It's good. Sometimes the random shit is the best part. Theory sucks. It's too regimented.

[@patsgarage8593]

I absolutely hate this song but eventually watched the video anyways and I definatetly didn't realize how good the bass is

[@dkoskoify]

I've never liked this song, but I like you, so I thought I'd give this video a shot and I can homestly say.... I was right. Nailed it. I'm right, everyone else sucks. This song is irritating, but you are awesome! I am loving the reaction videos to punk songs, and you do a really good job of walking through songs. I really enjoy how you blalance talking about theory and mood and just having fun with a song. (Even with Sweet Child of Mine. *Shutters* Ugh, so bad.) Next, you gotta do "It's up to You" by Frenzal Rhomb. Keep doing a great job. Cheers

[@LowEndUniversity]

Thank you for this! I actually have that written down for the future (Frenzal) - stay tuned! I know this tune is tried and true and certainly worn out to some, but just wanted to tap into my roots for an episode and rediscover an influence that’s very much in my DNA. Really glad you enjoyed some parts of it, at least! 😅🙏🏼

[@dkoskoify]

@@LowEndUniversity Hell yeah, dude! Keep it up!

[@peteandbe]

Stone Temple Pilots. Trippin’ on a Hole in a Paper Heart. If you’re taking suggestions for bass songs

[@fiveironscott]

Try anti flag!!

[@dougspinelli799]

You’re fixation on F natural and F sharp and whether or not the key is in G or D is way beyond the average rock stars paygrade. It’s all about feel not about book theory, and especially if you play and learn to play by ear. Like the old adage, how do you make a guitarist blind? put sheet music in front of him.

[@LowEndUniversity]

😂

[@theageingpunker4547]

If your gonna do Duff.. at least don't cheat and do 5 string. He played in a drop D style but whatever half step shit they did. Anyways. Play 4 string and do this video again. I know nothing about notes. But I do know sounds. That's how I learned

[@theageingpunker4547]

Duff was punk. That's why...

[@cholvey]

Sorry but gotta say you haven’t got his bass tone from this amazing song at all. He adds a beautiful soft tone while you’ve gone for a heavy distorted sound. Major fail. If you’re gonna try to teach this stuff get it right.

[@LowEndUniversity]

It's a pretty solid representation of the *average* tone on the whole record, which varies a LOT song-to-song. I modeled mine more after Paradise or Rocket Queen.

[@cholvey]

@@LowEndUniversity You know what I’m gonna apologize bc I was an asshole in my reply. I like what you do & I didn’t need to be a dick about it. Thx for the work you do & I’ll continue to follow your work. Just a bad day for me & it won’t happen again. Keep doing what you’re doing man.

[@LowEndUniversity]

No hard feelings - don’t sweat it. Appreciate your time to watch! Have a great day!

[@s.noon.v]

you're not totally going away from punk.. the amount of punk rock and hardcore bands duff's been in it's dumb

[@alexanderhemming9148]

With a great deal of respect to the man I have no idea why Duff is held in such high regard. As someone who did not grow up with Guns and Roses he just sounds bland and indistinguishable from any other bassist

[@user-oi3ry9dx9u]

This is genuinely, one of the worst songs I've ever heard in my life.

[@thewillformerlyknownasartist]

I hate GnR but I love Duff and Adler. Super solid rhythm section

[@JoneyJefe]

I bet you’re unable to name one that’s worse.

[@AtomizedSound]

But yet everyone loves listening to it and sings along to it. Music is subjective and yeah it’s overplayed at this point but it doesn’t subtract from it being an interesting compositional structure and a good classic rock song at this point regardless.

[@baronvonsatan]

You're too sheltered. Try looking for Quack Like a Duck.

[@stephentot5011]

Duff is a great bassist

[@peteandbe]

Stone Temple Pilots. Trippin’ on a Hole in a Paper Heart. If you’re taking suggestions for bass songs

[@LowEndUniversity]

Thank you! I did "Sour Girl" over on Patreon, definitely want to come back to them on KZbin soon.