Playing Bass With A PICK: What I Learned the Hard Way and Some Pick Tips

Playing with a bass pick is a super important skill for all bass players! In this video we talk about why it is important and how to get better at it. This is a lesson I learned the hard way, but you can learn it the easy way!
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[@BangBangBeefyMacNCheesy]

I used to get mocked for only playing bass with a pick. Personally, and many years later, people warmed up to it and it remains the only method I use for bass. :)

[@philipconradmusic]

It’s a great sound; I really dig it too! Way to stick to your gut feeling 🤘

[@murkyfluid7625]

Anyone mocking playing a bass with a pick should be introduced to the playing of Bobby Vega.

[@TB.906]

It's taken me a while to get used to playing with a pick. I play a jazz bass with flats and I've found a thin pick works best with my setup.

[@MATTTHEGREETER]

I almost always use finger style, although there have been a few songs over the years that required a pick. I always start playing, the pick starts to move around, then slips out of my fingers. I end up gripping my index finger between my thumb and middle finger, whaling away with my finger "pick" until the song is over. Then I find the pick on the floor, toss it into my pocket to be used (and dropped again) in the future haha. I think it's time I put in some real effort into getting comfortable at this point. I play guitar too, and never use a pick then either. I just sort of strum, or I'll play finger style patterns. Same reason. I'm born to drop picks.

[@pocket1684]

Carol Kaye played bass with a pick for certain things like the beach boys, then played w her fingers for an rnb gig, then she would tape her strings to be muted at her bridge. Whatever fits the song..is best.

[@philipconradmusic]

Well said! ⚡️

[@scottkidwellmusic9175]

Just stumbled on this one... I was into punk in the early 80s when I started learning/ playing bass. I used a pick. Cleaner, more precise attack, clearer tone (even distorted), more aggressive sound. Up until about 20 years ago, I used a pick exclusively. I've slowly developed my fingers over these last few years as I've explored different genres. It's really opened up my playing. Funny, too, because back then I was also learning guitar. I learned some basic fingerpicking patterns and have used those for the last 40 or so years...

[@philipconradmusic]

Hi Scott! Thanks for sharing. Some good insight. Glad to have you here!

[@brandonmason388]

Yep, same here. I started out in punk bands and also played a little guitar. I’m so glad I started out that way so that playing with a pick feels 100% natural. It’s definitely it’s own sound. I just shake my head when bassists say anything you can play with a pick can be played with fingers. Yeah it’s technically true but the tone is different and playing bass isn’t just about the notes you play

[@dchauser4]

This is a solid video topic. There are far too many bass players who want to scream that you should never play bass with a pick. Growing up as a metalhead during my teen years, I got exposed to a broad swath of bass players using multiple styles. When I picked the bass back up, I went to GC and picked up one of the Dunlop multi-packs. When I was playing originally, I tended toward the 3mm picks similar to what you're using. Now, though, I tend toward the .73mm picks just because I like the quick snap response from them. I'm still primarily a finger player, but there are definitely times and places where playing with a pick is required. Now if only some of the grognard bass players would pull their nose out of the air and realize there are times where a pick is appropriate.

[@philipconradmusic]

I agree! Sometimes it’s just the thing. Thanks for your thoughtful comment. Glad to have you here!

[@thomass1425]

When their noses lower and they can see clearly, they should check out Chris Squire. There’s room for both in the world.

[@ileutur6863]

I started using a pick when I was a beginner as a way of compensating for old strings and an old amp that just didn't produce the attack I wanted. Then I got into tool and there was no going back. Pro tip: if you play rock or metal, try using s thinner flexible pick. The flex acts as a natural form of compression when you dig in

[@qu14torze82]

I totally agree with you about the thinner pick, Dave Ellefson said that too. An exception though: Cliff Williams said he plays with thick picks.

[@Matt-1d]

I’d love a video on right hand technique. I’m a guitar player who started playing bass about a month ago. I’ve watched lots of videos on right hand technique, but am struggling on whether to have a floating thumb or to anchor it on the E string. Also, I can’t seem to eliminate the noise that my fingers make after they play one string and then hit the string below it. While it does mute the unplayed string, it also makes an audible thump that muddies up my tone. Sorry for the long comment about finger technique in response to a picking technique video!

[@philipconradmusic]

Hi Matt! I know exactly what you are talking about. I’m hoping to explain/elaborate in a video soon. This can be resolved with some practice! In the meantime, thank you so much for being here and supporting the channel!

[@Matt-1d]

@@philipconradmusic thanks, Philip! I’m looking forward to it, and am enjoying your channel.

[@philipconradmusic]

@@Matt-1d 🙏🏻 🤘

[@Matt-1d]

@@philipconradmusic BTW, I put flatwound strings on my new bass last night. I'm really happy with them so far. I like the smooth sound and feel.

[@philipconradmusic]

@@Matt-1d love that! Good luck!

[@zeralita0]

a p-bass and a pick, an all time classic!! check out the best 80s argentinian band: SODA STEREO's first LP. "Un misil en mi placard" & most of all "Afrodisíacos" have such basslines they make me wanna build a house onto them and live there forever. my first bass was a P-bass thanks to their bassist ZETA BOSIO, a graceful, SOLID player. and now getting better at it thanks to your videos. bass speaks all languages!! un abrazo desde VALPARAÍSO, Mr. Conrad ❤

[@sirfultonbishop]

Use every tool at your disposal! 👍🏽

[@alanscharrer5255]

Pick is simply the most versatile tool for the bass

[@thomasfioriglio]

I am always supportive of these kinds of videos showing the effectiveness of using a pick. I began as a pick player back in the 80s. All my favorite bands had bassists who used picks and I love the sound of the attack. It wasn't until later that I started playing with my fingers as well. To this day, i am still more comfortable with a pick. I can get a more consistent and even tone. I play a lot of U2, and Adam Clayton goes back and forth between the two, so he is a great example of a player that uses both. And I am always surprised by my bass friends who play with their fingers and don't know how to play with a pick. It's one more tool in your arsenal.

[@philipconradmusic]

100%. Well said Thomas!

[@markmilner842]

This is a helpful video. I’ve been working on improving my pick playing lately. One thing, though, in your list of b players/bands with iconic pick tones: you list Rush, but Geddy Lee always uses fingers - even when he played Roundabout with Yes at their Rock Hall induction. He has a very unusual finger style, though, at times almost like flamenco guitar, with a very hard attack, that gives him a sharp, percussive tone.

[@kiwibass]

100 per cent correct! In addition to that, Geddy also leaves his fingernails long enough to get that trebly, almost pick-like attack... just like flamenco and classical guitarists do, but most bass players tend to avoid at all costs.

[@IggyYTube]

In my humble opinion and experience ... I totally agree with you Philip. I used to play all the time with just my fingers on bass but since playing in a Hard Rock band It did become almost a necessity to play with a pick for certain songs and I really enjoy both styles equally. It is complementary to know both as a bass player. Good and also important video bro. Thanks

[@doylehull6712]

Philip: Just a quick note to thank you for your videos and this one in particular! I like that your approach is calm and conversational and focused on sharing insights and guidance instead of trying to hype yourself or some product. When I first started playing 42 years ago, the number of pick choices for a bass player were pretty limited and I didn’t like the feel or sound of any of them. They all seemed too thin and the tone they made was too “clicky” and was nowhere near as forceful as plucking with my fingers. This video - combined with one of my bands learning a new song that required a pick - made me try again and made me look again at pick choices. What I discovered is that there are a LOT more pick options for bassists these days and that many of those options help address the shortcomings I found with the limited range of picks I’d been exposed to earlier. The type I’ve settled on is the Dunlop Jumbo Flow 2.0. The wide body is easy to hold onto; the unique grip surface keeps it in hand even in the sweatiest situations; the thick, firm size gives a strong, deep note fundamental without “click”; and the beveled edge promotes quick playing. I used to dread songs that required me to use a pick but I’m actually looking forward to playing those songs now. Anyway, thank you for helping set me on that path of discovery!

[@Bartoszen]

Hi! You made me play bass with a pick for the first time in years.I even cut these sticking out saddle screws for better palm muting.Thanks! Greetings from (across the pond) Poland

[@philipconradmusic]

Haha awesome! Keep up the good work! Greetings from Atlanta!

[@Bartoszen]

@@philipconradmusic Btw I also dusted off a diy plywood pick I had made last summer.All the best to you in 2022.

[@jadeclerc]

Oh the getting a good tone from your fingers would be a perfect video

[@philipconradmusic]

Nice! I will keep it in mind…

[@Smokeinmebury]

As someone who started out playing bass with a pick (at 16) I'd say these tips are good! I've been playing bass for almost 2 decades now, all with a pick. I was always thinking about trying to play with my fingers, but I could never get the timing down, my tone sucked, and since I was in a band I felt I didn't have the time to really put into it. So I never stuck with it long enough. Now I am no longer in a band so I don't have any pressure I figured now it was time to really try and get it with fingerstyle. I've been re-learning some of my bands old songs with fingerstyle. It's been a very interesting transition. What I've noticed is that some of the lines I used to play are waaaay harder for me with fingers and some of the lines are way easier. Also, I've realized that I don't like some of the lines I wrote back then! hahaha! at the end you mentioned doing a video about tone playing with fingers and as someone who doesn't natively play with fingerstyle, I would be interested in watching that.

[@thomasfioriglio]

Great advice at the end to try different picks! For years, I used a thumb pick. I never dropped it and it prevented my hand from cramping from gripping the pick too tightly. Since then, I've tried many different picks - different materials, different thicknesses. Give them a try. I just ordered some Big Stubbies!

[@philipconradmusic]

Nice! I hope you like them. Thanks for sharing!

[@ChristopherStoppiello]

I agree, Tool should be listed twice.

[@philipconradmusic]

🤘

[@aj81ds]

Great video. I always liked bass so after playing guitar off and on for years and In the middle of the pandemic I decided that it would be a good time to start learning. Since I grew up on punk rock that is what I play and my bass hero’s all played with a pick so that is what I have done. However, I want to be a well rounded bass player so I should start learning finger style. That being said, I would love to see a video on fingers style. Thank you.

[@philipconradmusic]

Hi AJ! It seems that you are not alone; lots of comments requesting a finger style video. Stay tuned, I will plan to make one soon! Also, very cool that you can play confidently with a pick. It’s something I’ve had to get used to. Thanks for your comment and your support!

[@ITigerbaum]

Good show! I play probably 80% thumb. I can get a softer attack and mute the strings with my palm. Otherwise it's hybrid or just pick. I remember biting the skin off a blister and putting super glue on it to finish a gig. Burned like Hell Fire but it worked. Punk Rock days I'm surprised I remember, but you will not forget that. for sure.

[@AndrewTannusMusic]

I find the jazz pics from Ernie Ball are super comfortable to play once you get used to the size. You can get some super pointed attack without the excess texture. I started on the big stubbies and they got me super into the tone

[@fngsrck]

As a guitar player, I'm mediocre-to-passable with finger picking. I like doing it, but definitely have issues getting my notes consistent and even. Also, where should I put my hand? I'd love a video on how to approach the concept overall.

[@philipconradmusic]

Copy that Michael! I will plan to make one in the hopefully not too distant future. Thank you!

[@Shogotheband]

Solid dude, as a former fingers-only purist, i actually switched to picks some years ago after i discovered a picks attack translated to my mixes better. Also, years of losing my calluses on stage started wearing on me & made me moderate my playing/practice time which totally sucked. Picks solved all that for me thankfully.

[@philipconradmusic]

Hi there! Sounds like we have a similar mindset. Thanks for taking the time to watch this video!

[@rome8180]

I like using a pick for recording. I find that especially with faster runs and picking patterns I can get a much cleaner and more precise sound. The attack also helps the notes cut through the mix better. That said, I enjoy playing with my fingers more from a purely physical perspective. I switch back and forth as needed. I use a much thinner pick than you do though. I find that I can do speed picking much better with a thin pick. Less resistance. Once, in a live setting being able to play with a pick saved me. I had flown back to my old home state to do a reunion show with my high school band. I didn't bring my bass because I knew my friend would have one. It was a nice bass, but for some reason it was set up with incredibly high action and thick strings. I wasn't used to it at all. I've always played light gauge strings with low action. I just didn't have the finger strength to keep playing that bass for a full show. But with a pick I was able to manage it.

[@BassistBearGaming]

I also use a really thin pick (0.60mm), and yeah it has less resistance, but another good thing a thin plectrum is, you don't need to change the power of the picking the higher strings. When I used the big stubby in the past, I loved on the low strings, but on the higher strings it bend the strings too much before the string release the pick and the volumes of the strings is too much also on higher strings. This is why I don't liked to played with the pick in the past. :) But everyone is different, this is my experience :)

[@momentoftruth7594]

I hated playing with a pick because I was terrible with it lol....but I've dedicated this last year to playing guitar, didn't even pick up the bass, so now I hope I'm better with a pick because I'm practicing both now.

[@philipconradmusic]

🤘

[@lostinjanuarymusic]

My approach to “transcribing” music is to just memorize it. I do ok, but it gets hard for gigs over a couple hours. Maybe you could do a video talking about how you write charts.

[@philipconradmusic]

Hey Jason! That’s a really good idea. I’ll keep that in mind; may be it’s own video in the future…

[@ivomatic13]

Thanks Philip!

[@philipconradmusic]

Thank you Ivo!

[@paulocorreia9608]

I’ve enjoyed the content so far, keep the videos coming Philip! 💪🏽

[@philipconradmusic]

Thanks Paulo! More on the way for you!

[@seankent1807]

Really enjoying your videos! Keep ‘em coming! 👏🏻👏🏻👏🏻

[@philipconradmusic]

Thank you Sean! More on the way. Thanks for being a part at the beginning; I really appreciate your support!

[@BatEatsMoth]

I use a standard shaped Dunlop 1.5 mm max grip and pluck with the corner. You can play way more articulate stuff plucking with the corner. That's a trick I learned from George Lynch and Billy Duffy back in the 80's.

[@philipconradmusic]

Nice! Thanks for sharing! 🤘

[@bencobass56]

I will "pick" your recommendations... Good job and thanks!!!

[@philipconradmusic]

Thank you Benjamin!

[@thistilly9337]

Super insightful! Great job Phil!💛

[@philipconradmusic]

Thank you Tilly! ☺️☺️☺️

[@coleemmersonhallman5329]

great channel, love it already!!

[@philipconradmusic]

Thanks Cole! So glad you are here!

[@shaynedurbin2235]

I’m mostly a keys and guitar player but I love playing bass as well. My right hand technique could definitely use some work. Always seemed like it was sacrilegious to play bass with a pick but this definitely opened my mind a little. On another note, I’m interested in knowing who your influences are. Who help shaped the killer sound of Phil?

[@philipconradmusic]

Hi Shayne! I can relate to your mindset; it is something that is newer for me as well. And thank you for the kind words! Maybe I will have to do a video talking about some influences… but in the meantime thank you so much for being here and taking the time to watch these videos. It means a ton to me!

[@shaynedurbin2235]

@@philipconradmusic You’re welcome! Well, I guess I’ll keep my fingers crossed for that influences video. Thank you for taking the time to reply to my comments.

[@philipconradmusic]

@@shaynedurbin2235 absolutely Shayne! Thank you!

[@alanscharrer5255]

Better and more important than the slap

[@kevincothron5089]

I should try a pick. I have always played with my fingers. I have done it a little but, for the gig I play finger picking is better overall.

[@philipconradmusic]

If finger style works for you, if it’s not broke don’t fix it! Just another tool to have if/when you need it.

[@BenStolz]

I’d appreciate a video on right hand technique!! I’m a guitar player who plays bass with a pick! But seriously, I was on a bit of a hiatus and now I can stop recording music. I’d love some right hand technique tips to give me more sound options.

[@philipconradmusic]

Hi Ben! I have one for you. I hope this helps: kzbin.info/www/bejne/Zom0hWmfpdprgLM

[@BenStolz]

@@philipconradmusic awesome! Thank you 😊

[@ZRobertson91]

I started as a guitar player who moved to bass because no one else played bass. I pretty well always play with a pick, just because I was handed a bass and told to play the root notes. I'd love a video about right hand technique, because I find playing without a pick to be uncomfortable

[@philipconradmusic]

Hi Zachary! Funny you say that. I have a Right Hand link premiering Wednesday. Stay tuned!

[@tiohunt6788]

I would be very interested to watch a video to learn how to play with the right hand, as guitarist, I have no clue about the techniques on using the right hand on bass

[@philipconradmusic]

Thanks Arthur! That’s a great idea. I will keep that in mind… thanks for your comment and taking the time to watch this video!

[@Robert_Charles]

3 for 3 man. Good job low end brethren

[@philipconradmusic]

Thank you! 🙏🏻🙏🏻🙏🏻

[@66numero]

Hi, thanks for having this open minded approach about the Pic. I have always found finger bass players criticism towards pick bass player unfounded. It seemed more like a fragile ego manifestation to me.

[@philipconradmusic]

Hi there! Thanks for your comment. That used to be me for sure. No longer; I’d say I play with a pick about 30% of the time these days. Thank you for taking the time to watch this video!

[@Itsjustwilson]

Hey man nice vid, quick question do u use flats or rounds on ur bass that u use to gig?

[@philipconradmusic]

Both, but usually flats! This video I am playing flats 🤘

[@pradipchaudhuri9240]

Can you do a video on Roger Water's pick playing technique? Believe me, his technique is very elusive! It is very difficult to reproduce the actual , original Pink Floyd "Bass" sound of Roger Waters! I have been working on Pink Floyd albums for over 5 years now! But, haven't been able to get that bass sound yet!! Very frustrating!!

[@alexperez3651]

Very new to the bass world, noticed that some people use a glove on their fretting hand? Like full finger gloves, I’m guessing that’s for a specific muted tone? I’m I off on that?

[@philipconradmusic]

Not sure honestly.

[@garideb]

Yes to all... except.... Geddy Lee never used a pick so should not be on that list. Great video btw - very much enjoying, thanks for making - I'm always impressed by bass players who will switch from pick to fingers (or even slap) depending on what works in the context of that particular song or section e.g. John Paul Jones

[@philipconradmusic]

Thanks for the kind word. Glad to have you here! ⚡️

[@kane6529]

I hate playing with a puck so much 😂 I know it’s a good tool to have I’m just so much faster with my fingers! I need to put in the effort to get it ironed out

[@philipconradmusic]

It’s something I gotta work on too!

[@dw7704]

I find some rhythms easier to play with a pick & some easier with fingers, but I mostly play with my fingers But I am adaptable

[@philipconradmusic]

Thanks for sharing! ⚡️

[@josephcole9340]

I'm just here to say that I love the videos and am excited for more!

[@philipconradmusic]

Thanks so much Joseph! So happy to have you here!

[@aj81ds]

I also have a question re: playing with a pick. I feel more comfortable and have more control with a pick when I anchor my pinky just below my g string but a lot of bass players I’m influenced by (Joe Principe, Rise Against) (Hunter Bergan, AFi) (Dan Andriano, Alkaline Trio) to name a few play without anchoring the pinky. Should I break myself of that habit or is that just my style developing?

[@philipconradmusic]

Good question! The way I see it, this instrument is soo young in the history of music that there are people alive today that were alive before it was invented. So there are no rules or absolutes when it comes to techniques IMO. It’s more about what works for you. Efficiency CAN help you express yourself more fluidly. But efficiency isn’t the ultimate goal; to me the goal is an honest sound that is true to you. I’d recommend exploring not using the pinky anchor and see if it helps you. My gut says it would. I hope you find the sound you are looking for!

[@camillephilippon9594]

What about the gloves to save one's fingers?

[@marcusparnell2403]

Aces!

[@philipconradmusic]

🤘

[@litup6465]

Sometimes you get a cut on your finger, so it is imperative that you learn to use a pick!

[@j_drichmond]

And of you’re a guitar player, follow the tips but without a pick.

[@philipconradmusic]

Hahaha nice 👍

[@alexneudatchin2161]

and why metallica is in the list?

[@mossy723]

Funny, my wife calls me “ Big Stubby”

[@philipconradmusic]

😂

[@gcvrsa]

While I certainly agree that one should learn to play with a plectrum effectively, I definitely disagree with the idea that just because certain songs were played with a plectrum by the original artist, we should feel obligated to mimic the original artist's tone. Every bassist has the right to reinterpret music. Play with a pick if you feel it suits the music best, don't play with a pick because some Internet bass nerd (myself included) says that's how some famous bassist played some famous song.

[@philipconradmusic]

Thanks for sharing! You are right: we should be creative. But our decisions should not be determined by our ability, but our creativity. Also, depends on context. Some songs really don’t sound right without a pick. I think we believe the same thing.

[@alanscharrer5255]

Best advice for a pick: Don’t hold it super tight

[@philipconradmusic]

Great advice!

[@alanscharrer5255]

@@philipconradmusic Hey Phil love your playing with Deacon and Guthrie. Very melodic and so in the pocket

[@philipconradmusic]

@@alanscharrer5255 thanks for the kind words! I love playing in that band; those dudes are all next level…

[@McDoinky]

It says Yes and Chris Squire separately lol

[@philipconradmusic]

Whoops 😅

[@michaelradu5753]

2 tools in the list 🫶