The Best 6-String Bass Exercises to Get Started

[@edwinrivera5695]

Greetings Rich. I'm just a 4 string guy but I'm glad you are doing this because I know that there are a lot of folks looking just for this, so on behalf of our 6-string brothers and sisters - many thanks!

[@richbrownbass]

Thank you, Edwin. I’m pinning this comment because this is the kind of support I love to see from my 4-string friends and neighbours. Much appreciated, my brother.

[@realsoon1612]

E.g. I've had a 6-string bass for about four years, and am okay at it. But I decided to search for good exercises to make it feel more natural, and this came up. And I'm getting better already right from this lesson, even as an experienced live-performing bassist on 6-string bass.

[@MuhammadAli-vp7qt]

@@richbrownbass do you have tabs , for this video.

[@Rogue40kCraftsman]

I decided during Covid that I was finally going to take up bass. Today, I saw a six-string that is stunning. Watching this video I thought to myself, "I could practice this". Finding instructors near me has been a journey but I think it will happen. Thansk for the great video.

[@simoncroft]

I've been playing bass for 50 years, but this was exceptionally helpful. Thank you!

[@dneuwir]

I've been playing bass for 30 years. Long enough to know I have a LOT to still learn. And going back to the basics (memories of "learn those scales, son!") through your exercises has really challenged me and forced me out of a few bad habits myself. THANK YOU for such excellent content!

[@richbrownbass]

My goodness! What an incredibly generous show of support. I can't thank you enough for this. It's truly my pleasure to bring this content to you, especially knowing that I can help someone out there. We all have a LOT to learn. I know I do. But the journey is so much fun. I appreciate your kind words and your support more than I can say. All the best to you and yours.

[@1mattbono]

Mr. Brown, I am a fellow 6 string bassist of about 15 yrs. I love your heart on helping others. Keep up the good work.

[@cornteeth8614]

I've been playing the electric guitar for 2 years now. Not too long ago I got an 8 string electric guitar, and just yesterday, I got my first bass, which is a 6 sting one. It's funny cuz before I used to hate basses with more 4 strings and guitars with more than 6 strings. I've been playing this bass for hours, and when I went back to playing the guitar, I was playing perfectly. In a way playing the bass, made me play the electric guitar better.

[@realsoon1612]

I think what I love about Mr. Brown's lessons is that he sounds like your cool-ass uncle who happens to be an expert at something.. and hey, if you ask, he's glad to tell you.

[@nyfaniloandrianjafy8171]

Rich. You once replied to one of my comments saying that the 6-string bass is your main instrument. I was in a period of musical transition at that time.. that's a long story. But I got curious. I went to a music store, tried a 6-string and fell in love. That's all thanks to you. If you release more lessons on that subject, I will devour them all.

[@richbrownbass]

Thank you. I'll definitely keep that mind moving forward.

[@mikeh66]

@@richbrownbass :Same here!

[@ywang407]

I just got my 6 string bass guitar and I’ve never played guitar before ( I got it accidentally but im not gonna give up ) so this is nice to see !!!! thank you !!!!

[@Bassdriver]

I've been playing the bass for over 28 years now and I've just borrowed a 6 from a friend who hasn't been using it for last year or so. What you've showed here is what I'm gonna be doing for the next weeks or even months ;-) Thank you so much! The 6 suddenly starts to look a tiny little bit less intimidating ;-)

[@wish8486]

I'm not sure whether you'll see this or not, and it may get buried in the many comments of support, but I want to say thank you so much. I recently started playing bass guitar, and started with a 6 string, this video among many of your others have helped me improve and will continue to help me immensely. You also just generally seem like a very respectful and pleasant human being, so i'm glad it's you giving me the information! Much love ❤️

[@varmintproblems]

Mr. Brown, you have done it again! Thank you for a very helpful video! I am one of those weirdos who started on a 6 string, because all of my favorite bassists were six string players, and you have been super helpful. Thanks again!!!

[@sunglee2048]

My wife got me a six string bass for my Christmas gift last year and I said, "why?" LOL. I have been intimidated by the 6 stringer, but the Harley Benton sounds so good and for some reason, my logic is it will make me a better bass player overall if I can adapt to the six string bass. I'm grateful for your videos. Thank you and subscribed!

[@Bassic778]

Excellent exercises! Thank you, Rich! If only we all could be so fortunate to have your facility but have to clean it up!!!!!

[@benmakestalkies]

Fell in love with a 6 string back at a local guitar shop last June after two years of 4 string, I have continued to enjoy playing it but definitely feel like I have been missing some things and this video is just what I needed.

[@cyriani942]

For the past 6 and half years I've been playing a five string bass and sometimes I set it to EADGC. Now I am thinking to buy a 6 strings to have all in ONE. Then I found this video. Thanks a lot for this video. I will get a 6 strings.

[@raichoo]

Wow, thanks for this. I love 6 string bass and it was indeed the first kind of bass I picked up. Played guitar before though. It's great that you are transparent about your right hand technique "issues". I've picked up so many bad habits along the way and it's never too late to start working on them. The fact that you are so open motivates me to be more honest too myself and find things that need to be worked on. Keep up the great work!

[@TheStallion_sb]

I love your lessons and learning what you have to offer. The fact that, in this video, you point out one of your own shortcomings and also direct us to other instructors speaks to your honesty and humility as a musician and a person. This is why i always point folks towards The Brownstone when they ask for KZbin instructors to follow.

[@miltonchavez1262]

Started with 4 string bass. Was given lots of piano music for bass lines at church. Guitar player sometimes was not available and so had to chord. So, I picked up an Ibanez GVB 36 6 string and it has been my goto bass ever since. Thanks for tips and exercises for 6 string bass!

[@thebird864]

First I like to thank you for this lesson I am a keyboard and trumpet player. I strated playing four and six string bass 2023 coming along great. The six string tip is most helpfull playing that instrument. So I started with the six string first and move to the four string. Thanks again

[@colb999]

Thanks for this Rich. Please keep the 6 string series coming. I'm a great fan of your videos and learn a lot form them. Bless.

[@mehmetcelal5358]

I am a better bass player because of you. Many thanks and regards from Istanbul sir.

[@BradWolfe113]

Been using four strings for 20 some years and just recently picked up a six. Thanks for this.

[@kurofruit477]

I'm a music beginner and I just loved the beauty of the 6 string I have now. I'm excited to learn and try the exercises thank you.

[@Ben-ic1ve]

I’ve been looking to buy a 6-string and get started in this world , so this video is perfect for me! Thanks Rich!

[@O.D.A._Band]

Thank you soooo much, Rich. I played a 4 string for many years and now giving the 6 String a shot. I thought: "only" 2 more strings. Ha, ha. How wrong I was :-) Your video helped me a lot. Thanks!

[@jkndrkn]

Thanks for touching on how challenging it is to control ringing open strings on a six-string bass! I have found it to be quite challenging as well.

[@Andysavyd69]

This is an amazing video. Thanks !

[@danilopolar6476]

THANK YOU SO MUCH 😅 I’ve been looking for exercises doe the 6 string but in my native language there is close to none

[@micktomazou]

Rich...you are a godsend!! I've only owned a 6 string for 3 days and was a bit lost as to what/how to practice. This video has been great - it's just the type of thing I was looking for as a stepping stone to understanding the extended fretboard and how to use the high C. Many thanks sir...🦉🦉

[@mikeh66]

GREAT VIDEO!!! The 6 string is on more difficult to learn! You master whatever is placed in front of you! The "5" kinda threw me off but I get it. I'll watch it again...and again...and as many times as I see fit.

[@ProtomanBlues]

Just bought my first bass a Yamaha trb1006x after playing guitar for 15 years this video was super helpful thank you!

[@yannr.3782]

Thank you so much! My 6 string is waiting to get some love.

[@Asthmos]

transitioned from 6 string guitar. i could never get the hang of the highest two strings... 6 string bass opened up the whole fretboard for me because they dont skip any steps in tuning. i had to buy one and ive never put it down. learning to drop the pick was hardest, and continues to be my biggest challenge, yet biggest triumph. the more i learn the more i feel like the pick was a crutch.

[@g.norman1034]

4 strings are keeping me busy enough, but I really love the way the 6-strings sound on the bass. I think one day I’ll take the plunge. It’s kind of intimidating because it seems reserved for seasoned musicians in the world of jazz

[@jermaineramsay7988]

I have a 6 string, which I'm using to learn bass. It seems daunting trying to master the fretboard, and know each note by heart. Not to mention playing songs by ear or creating your own lines.

[@GuyManley]

That was incredibly helpful. I played 4 string exclusively in drop D tuning a life time ago. I picked up bass again last year and this year I got a 6 string. That Squier Jazz 6 string was too cheap to not pick up. Anyway thanks for the exercise. I think it is going make thinking across the strings and not up and down the neck more intuitive.

[@LXi0046]

Just found this video. Great content and amazing exercises. I jumped from 4 to 6 a few years ago and since then it feels home. The right hand technique takes time to get used to, but once you do it helps a lot navigating through the neck, keeping the right tone regardless, and using three fingers for playing faster (if you're into that)

[@book3100]

my main thing is five string, but OMG the sound of that six is amazing.. the tones are so even across the strings! im sure part of it is you, but man.. that sounds like silk feels.

[@thomassully6421]

my 6 string was my first bass lol. definitely a mistake. comin back to give it another shot! great video

[@fernandoledezma4247]

Thanks so much for your excellent video on six string bass. I am waiting for your next video on six strings. Again: thank you very much. Fernando from Mexico.

[@richbrownbass]

Thank you so much, Fernando. Stay tuned. There will be more soon!

[@davidclark2213]

Thanks so much for this 6 string lesson-keep them coming please. And, on a SBL interview you mentioned learning tricks that made your fretted guitar sound fret less-please, a lesson about this would be wonderful.

[@richbrownbass]

I can do that, David. Thank you so much for watching.

[@rod_andrade]

Seriously, you´re the best!

[@AlexandarShmex]

Yeaaaah buddy, it's starting! Thanks Rich!

[@pierrelataillade7564]

Clearly ..... it's quite a departure from our trusted 4 string instrument. But that's okay... I'm glad that you pointed out some personal hiccups on your end... As for myself... I'm here to see what your up to. So.... with every lesson I'm seeing a broader perspective thank you for that....

[@aquehueva]

Than you man!!!!!

[@jwlewis3661]

2 years in on an Ibanez 6 string. Trying to figure out how to unlock its potential. Definitely following

[@nickthompson8600]

Very clear and helpful, thank you muchly.

[@timberfool]

Thank you for this Master Rich!

[@philipmcadam5339]

Hey Rich, Thank you for another valuable lesson. I know that I will find it extremely useful. I am waiting for you to send me that beautiful six string FBass. Peace and love.

[@davetuttle9701]

Excellent

[@bassAsax]

a great little focused exercise to get comfortable on the one bass in my collection i am very uncomfortable on, thanks Rich!

[@richbrownbass]

My pleasure. I’m happy to help.

[@mr.force1036]

Thanks for having me over, man. Next time, I’ll bring the wine😎

[@ringthane69]

For the whole video I'm thinking "what's this hairband looking thingy by the nut?" and I see other cats with it as well (Henrik Linder etc). So I was going to post what I thought was a silly question... and you explained it! Thanks Rich :) Inspiring as always, thank you sir...

[@davidbalan6571]

Root Position and Minor Fifth position C, E , G and A, D, G very simple to learning's .

[@abcdefu3198]

I got my first bass 6 years ago in 2017. It was 4 string and I had that bass for 2 years until I gave it away and got a new bass in 2019. The new bass was a 6 string and it’s the only bass I own till this day. You get used to playing it and navigating the strings after a while. Definitely still not perfect though! I plan on having my next bass be a 6 as well because if the fluidity of 6 strings it’s so amazing to me.

[@cedwardmassey]

I guess I got lucky, today. I'm buying my first bass, and I found out that KLOS still can't start making my 6-string. So, I was able to switch my order to a 5-string. Then, to help myself out a little more, I ordered a 4-string. I'd still like to have a 6-string, someday - fretless and flatwound! But, I'm not enough of a daredevil, yet. ❤

[@Dgsaxman84]

Fantastic! Thank you!

[@travisreed5965]

Most Excellent - Congrats On The 40K Stay Rowdy, Cheers

[@Barry101er]

Everytime I watch a 6 strimg video-makes me want to get one again

[@sephiroth7818]

1:14 I've been playing bass since the late 90s. Wanting to try a 6 string now.

[@ralphmanak]

Happy sad face: moving forward and learning. As we used to say, "Struggle is good." Periodic and short progress videos on your plucking hand muting-discoveries along the way-might carry great utility.

[@diegomorales8616]

9:06 This run reminds me of Wonderful Christmastime by Paul McCartney!

[@bbulla]

Very nice. I’m not a 6 string player, but did get a 5 recently that has been a bit of a challenge. Nice to know I’m not the only one who struggles with bad right hand technique!! 😊

[@PilferMusic]

Thanks for this!

[@thomaswalker8790]

Super cool stuff

[@ethanlancaster76]

Great video, earned my sub!

[@Brookzplayzmuzic]

Man thank God u did this!! I need more

[@NickBirge]

That tone is why im here 🤤

[@richbrownbass]

Haha! Thank you, Nick!

[@alfredsmith6381]

The muting thing has eluded me as well over the years. I just rely on the fret wraps. So far, so good. I say use the tools that are invented and available to help you have one less thing to worry about, since our main focus is to listen to what's happening in the music we're making.

[@AlexandarShmex]

It's true Alfred, but it's a crutch and reinforces bad habits.

[@alfredsmith6381]

@@AlexandarShmex How so, exactly? Other than muting, my technique is good, and articulation is pretty clean. Not trying to argue. What would be an example of that for you?

[@someoneoutthere7512]

Playing any instrument is a life long journey and like Rich said, he is working on it.

[@alfredsmith6381]

@@someoneoutthere7512 Not saying we don't need to work on our skill sets, but I don't think using a fret wrap necessarily leads to bad habits. I just wanted an example of what bad habit would result from using one.

[@AlexandarShmex]

@@alfredsmith6381 Hey Al, well the bad habit I've had in mind is not developing proper muting technique. That being said, I've been playing for a bit over a year and I'm probaby miles behind you in skill, but I worked on my muting technique hard since the beginning, since I switched to 5 strings after 2 months. Now I can slap without extra noise most of the time...

[@boimonday5267]

Boss thanks

[@davidloflin3098]

Greetings Rich. I played a 6-string as my main instrument for many years when I hit my prog metal stage. It's a great instrument, a '94 Carvin LB76 with Bartolini pickups and an Aguilar preamp modification. I don't play it as much these days and yeah, muting is a pain. Nice breakdown as always my man.

[@richbrownbass]

Thank you, brother David. That whole muting thing does me in sometimes, but the fret wraps are great!

[@undercrownhiphop9422]

Love the channel. What bass is this?

[@chrisallain58]

First time bass player. 6 string fretless

[@bradsmith8193]

You're making me want a six string now

[@SkellyWagYT]

Great video man. And great skills! ❤️

[@marcuskingstanley9522]

This might be controversial but as a six string bass player, the best way to see it is like a four string with two extra strings. Unlike a six string guitar the tuning is simple. Having said that you can tune a guitar anyway you like

[@Benjybass]

Hi Rich; Great way to start off on a 6 string! However at 7:35, the fingering for the D Major scale (going up on the G and C strings) could be easier using 1-2-4 instead of 1-3-4, which I find easier. This is especially useful when going up the neck with the same pattern. What is your opinion?

[@loiseaunoir1021]

Bro, your bass has some resonant notes!

[@OfficialGi0o]

The D Major scale continued pattern.. Is that the same thing in the modes you teach for 6 string bass

[@crystalwheeler4025]

Rich, I am starting on a 6 string bass. I Love it and I am not afraid to start here. Please help:)

[@johnmarkbetes3966]

Hey Rich! Thank you for posting this video. I've started playing and mainly playing in our church for the past 8 months with a 4s and recently got a 6s (early January 2024). This is very helpful insight with the 6s. I got a question though. How do I get a tighter or thicker sound on my G and C strings? I'm using DR Fatbeams but those strings sound so thin to me. Hope to get a response from you. Thank you!

[@coach.b]

Hi. Have you done of these for those of us new to 5-string bass?

[@marcharris1475]

Hi. Great 6 string ice breaker. Please, tell me what strings do you use on your F bass?

[@richbrownbass]

Thanks, Marc. I'm using Jim Dunlop nickel wound SuperBrights on both of my F basses (5 and 6 string).

[@marcharris1475]

@@richbrownbass You've got great tone. If you're ever in Tbilisi I'll be at that gig. Thanks.

[@haj_endot]

i did technically play bass before picking up the six string, but it was really just a rocksmith controller if i'm being honest. i'm having to get the actual substance now, and it's a challenge, but the expressive range and selection of voicings makes me want to stick to it.

[@timothylarson3583]

For me, the six string turned out to be one more string then I could handle… the five was a lot easier transition from four. Also having more success with floating thumb on the five. That last part makes no sense to me, but I find myself using that technique without thinking about it.

[@lensmccracken3678]

What kind of fodera bass is that? Thank you.

[@paulangelo1974]

Hey Rich! I play blues, lots of Beth Hart. I write my own bass lines. I want to do this on the 6. Would you help?

[@Steadyworking864]

Can you make a lesson more about odds & evens??

[@richbrownbass]

Yes I can. Stay tuned!

[@Alex-hf1kp]

hey i jus recently bought a 6 string and i’m asking how am i able to tune it?

[@adamodimattia]

Hi, Rich, some months late but I'm here ;)

[@OfficialGi0o]

Is that pattern for any note

[@christopherphinney9585]

Rich, Can I use these exercises on a 5 string as well? Thanks!

[@richbrownbass]

Absolutely! Play these exercises up to the highest note in one position.

[@christopherphinney8111]

@@richbrownbass Thank you!

[@Jason_Maier]

Hmm .... a 6 string bass playing the lead or rhythm guitar parts: Which would sound better?

[@richbrownbass]

If I say one, and you say the other, who's wrong?

[@josephromano7867]

i PLAYED A 6 STRING SO 10 YEARS AGO I LOVED IT I DO NOT KNOW WHY I SOLD IT AND WENT BACK TO A 4 STRING?

[@richbrownbass]

Oh nooooooo! I'm sorry to hear that, Joseph. But you can still get a nice 6 for a reasonable price these days. I hope one comes to you.

[@mikeh66]

5 being the "5th of the scale"?

[@styner3]

I'm afraid to watch this video because I can't afford $$$$ to. 😂😂

[@silkyb9869]

Get a Harley benton. Gr8 cheap way to start

[@styner3]

@@silkyb9869, thanks but I'm a diehard 4 string guy.

[@bearjingle5316]

Why does your voice remind me so much of neil degrasse

[@barondavis5692]

To answer your question, start with a 4 string. 😊

[@richbrownbass]

I know this is a joke, but let's not do that 'bass bro' thing here. No one has the right to tell anyone else how they should express themselves. ✌🏾😎

[@barondavis5692]

The title to the post was, “How to get started on a 6 string.” My comment was to answer your question. 100% no offense was intended. I have enough trouble dealing with 4 strings. I can’t imagine 6. So, the comment was more for me than anyone interested in in playing 6. If someone’s got the ability, god bless, jam on.

[@richbrownbass]

@@barondavis5692 ​ Hey Baron. Thanks so much for clarifying. I started playing 6-string in 1999. Ever since then, I've heard every criticism and snide comment you could possibly imagine. I'm afraid I've developed a bit of a sensitivity now, and I apologize for misinterpreting your initial comment. God bless, and jam on, brother!

[@barondavis5692]

@@richbrownbass No problem. I can’t figure out why anyone would have anything to about someone playing a 6 string other than, congrats on mastering a complex instrument.

[@mikeh66]

What finger are you using for "5"? Pinky is 4, I get that. Looked like you used the third finger for "5". I'll watch again.

[@richbrownbass]

You can use either the ring or the pinky finger. Whatever feels most comfortable.

[@mikeh66]

@@richbrownbass : Please do more 6 string bass videos! The 6 string bass really isn't that hard. I think.