The Modes Made Simple on Bass

[@msimmo1989]

I researched for hours how to learn modes. Never really understood how to play them. Watched this and learned the modes in under 15 minutes. Awesome job man! Thank you for this! Absolutely genius!

[@tornadob6765]

Sir, I played the bass for a long long time. I have tried to watch as many videos as I could for years about modes and how to memorize and use them in my improvisation. Nobody (atleast to me) explained modes and scales in a simple and clear way. This was a Eureka moment for me thank you!

[@Godhumbledme]

and for me too. E-U-R-E-K-A!

[@Keepler22b]

jupp, old thread but absolutely agree. This guy is gold:)

[@anthony204]

Rich I came back to this clip to see just how simple of an approach it was to understand modes, I think too much and make a mountain out of a molehill,thanks brother 😂😂😂

[@russellf4114]

I am one of those 20 people that have been waiting for this lesson!!!!

[@richbrownbass]

LOL! Thanks very much, Russel!

[@marylaf]

Me too! I have over the years memorized modes but truly never knew how to use them!❤❤

[@peterfischer9993]

I agree with the others. I’ve been trying to get the modes for years. This lesson is the best. The whole fretboard just opens up! Awesome job.

[@darrenwilcox5043]

Found your channel through Scott's Bass Lessons and now I'm subscribed....so far, you are the best teacher I've found and I don't say that lightly

[@JamminB100]

Rich...older guy trying to learn all this mode and theory stuff. I've heard mode teaching before but seemed way too complicated or I just had a block to it. Best explanation of the modes I have heard in years. Thanks much for sharing!!

[@richbrownbass]

Thanks very much Mike. I'm so glad this video helped.

[@manelisimdaka9672]

What I’ve come to understand from this video is that modes give you access points to the diatonic scale without have to start at the root. Which is great for getting different sonic landscapes from one source (i.e. the C Major scale). The fact that I don’t have to rely on the root to play something coherent is freeing

[@Duderino1978]

I learned the modes a while back from SBL and understanding it this way has made it so much easier to just play in general when you know where and what you can play and still be in key. Thanks for the great vids rich!

[@richbrownbass]

My pleasure. Thank you so much for watching.

[@corytrevor9180]

Such a great lesson for the same reasons as the comment above. Thank you Rich. God bless 🍀

[@richbrownbass]

@@corytrevor9180 my pleasure, Cory. Thank you for watching. God bless.

[@rickyavocadobass]

Hey man just wondering if SBL is worth it! I want to learn more and I’ve been interested in checking it out

[@pdexBigTeacher]

Thanks!

[@thomaswalker8790]

Rich, my man, you just knocked it out of the park! Absolutely amazing!! It couldn't be made any simpler than this. You explained it in such a lucid way, it just gave me the confidence to dive right into it. Ciao for now. So long buddy...see you on the other side.

[@richbrownbass]

Wow! Thank you so much, Thomas! Very kind of you to say. Ciao for now, brother.

[@mjg51949]

I have been a musician for 60 plus years and never heard modalism described in this fashion. Kudos my friend. You are an excellent teacher as well as musician!

[@GoodVibesHV]

When I was completely new to the instrument modes were my way to learn the finger board. I had no idea what I was doing. Teachers were telling me not to learn modes yet as it is a more "advanced" part of theory. But looking back I am glad I learned modes early because I got the major scale positions/shapes, and 7 Scales all in one! Great value! You get to experiment with all those different sounds. I got more excited from that point on about learning guitar/bass. When I try to talk to my friends about modes they glaze over. It's kind of sad, because they're a really fun way to approach the instrument!

[@hondachk7992]

Dang. Ten minutes in and I understand this better than I have since I started seriously committing to my bass three years ago. Thanks, Rich :)

[@NoChi4240]

Thanks for listening to us Rich!!

[@richbrownbass]

It's my pleasure. Thank you for watching.

[@robertdumfries]

Eye-opener!

[@jacksmith5052]

What this man says is gold. And funny.

[@richbrownbass]

Thanks so much, Jack. I'm glad you enjoyed the video. 🙏🏾😁

[@WCruttenden]

I was only talking to someone today about how useful and enjoyable your Mastering the Modes course on SBL is. This feels like a great extension of that. Thanks again.

[@richbrownbass]

My pleasure as always, Will. Thank you for watching.

[@gernblenstein1541]

Yes, Sir. Had to watch it again. So much good stuff here. Most important is that the scale is the same, from the lowest note available on the fretboard to the highest. The idea of playing 4 notes per string up through the scale helps to understand this concept. you're still in the scale everywhere.

[@BlackRootsAcademyOfSoul]

Fantastic Mr. Brown. Thank you. Greetings from Uganda 🇺🇬👊🏿🖤

[@pdexBigTeacher]

When i watch your guitar compatriot Rick Beato explain the modes on guitar my head spins. This is the first time it made sense; thank you!

[@SixseeksiX]

With this teaching method, there are no questions and I can only say: I learned music with this video. I am proud to learn from you.

[@giligarden]

It’s all the same scale! This is what I was looking for for years. Can’t stress how thankful I am.

[@Mr_ptrades]

Finally got the video I have been searching for my entire life❤

[@fredjansohn8888]

Hi Rich, Just wondered if there was a possibility you could complement your lessons with a PDF. Would certainly help me to take away and practice without having to sit in front of a screen and replay what you say before fully understanding it and mastering all the fingering.. anyway, thanks for the lessons. Cheers, Fred Jansohn

[@chris_st]

Mr. Brown said in one of his videos (sorry, forget which one) that he doesn't do PDFs on purpose... he believes you should learn these things by ear (except when he gives you numbers :-). He said it's totally worth it for you to write it down yourself, and then you'll have it, BUT to do that you have to... figure it out by ear! Which is, by the way, fantastic training. Notably: There are several bass bits that he plays starting about 10 minutes in which I totally want to *steal* I MEAN LEARN so that I can *sound like Rich* I MEAN INTEGRATE into my own playing 🙂

[@SDGirl05]

You actually explained what everything is and how it relates to playing the scales. I finally understand how to play modes. Thank you.

[@marshallcraig225]

This is so cool. I have been playing bass for off and on for 50 years and never studied this concept. Thank you!

[@johnwood9878]

Well you did it!! You made it easy. Stupid easy. I learned it and have been avoiding the modes for years. I've really been getting by on the pentatonic scale, but the way you did this changed it (in my head) from learn the modes to learn the diatonic scales. Thank you so much, you just turned my bass playing into the next level.❤

[@waderogers776]

Good lesson, Rich. I've been working with modes for some time, but had sort of hit a wall; this lesson opened up the possibilities...and reminded me to 'unify' the concept of modes, rather than think of them as separate pieces of the puzzle. Great tip, thanks!

[@richbrownbass]

My pleasure! Thanks very much for watching, Wade.

[@TumiBass]

❤️

[@Tristan_Heberlein]

Well said. Agree. I've had a couple different bass teachers tell me to learn certain modes, but with no real clear explanation of how the modes fit together or how to really understand the whats or whys of them. This video helped put those pieces together quite easily...

[@digitalrudimentor]

Thanks for encouraging me to take notes, I usually avoid that part but when i do write things down it does help visualize and remember 😊

[@RootsBassCanada]

Thank you! Best lesson of 2025 for me so far! ❤

[@OstirBass]

Agree with the part to not practice modes from the same tone! Great video

[@redgreen__]

It’s been said by so many people already but really opened my eyes on how to work these. I’ve understood what modes were for years but never found good ways to really work them. Thanks a lot!

[@Stick3x]

This is such a fantastic lesson that I always come back to it.

[@christophermead6565]

It is very helpful to practice double octave major scales, to help visualise how all the modes are connected.

[@PaulHeagen]

You made this topic so approachable. The one thing I was unclear on is whether you keep the same scale shape as key snd just start the mode scale wherever in that scale shape the next level shows up, not simply moving the same shape up a level.

[@stephenshoihet2590]

Your modes course on the modes is one of the best out there! I keep it in an open tab on my tablet :-D The way you think about modes and how to use them just works for me. This is a great addendum to the SBL course.

[@richbrownbass]

Thank you so much, Stephen. That means a lot.

[@pierrelataillade7564]

Well today its....Mr. Rich.... to you. Please do not stop talking about this topic.... If you recall we are creatures of habit. constant repetition is the rule.... Watching you play these "modes" makes it looks easy, but we as student need to see it like you, and that will take some time......cheers

[@Megaloh21]

best video ever

[@robertgumpi7235]

Danke!

[@worldmusic1401]

I needed this video 45 years ago :) Great job, Friend, applause!

[@Weaselthebassist]

It clicked with me quickly but took me a second to start actually playing around with it. Been playing bass for ten years but I usually play by ear - I've always wanted to learn some theory though! Thank you.

[@Godhumbledme]

Thanks for giving me stuff I can use regarding the modes. sharing this one.

[@scottanderson8420]

That was awesome I quit playing the bass in my mid twenties to focus on a competing career. Soon I’m retro just bought a new bass and this is an incredible refresher. A great explanation. Thanks for sharing

[@donvape336]

I finally understand modes. Thank you thank you thank you

[@richbrownbass]

I love that! Thank's very much for watching, Don.

[@paulhopkins686]

Fantastic video

[@amanidavis9358]

I gotta say that learning this opened up so much to me. This was an amazing lesson, and it really helped me to understand all these different scales up and down the fretboard!!

[@Goddzi]

Hi, Rich! I’m primarily a bassist of 40 years but I also play guitar. However, the bassist in the band in which I am guitarist is my high school friend who started bass with me at school. He has never been able to learn scales…until yesterday! I told him to play along each string starting with the G string. Open, 2, 4, 5, 7, 9, 11, 12. Then I told him that was G major. Next the D string. Play EXACTLY THE SAME FRETS except instead of 11, play 10. Then I told him that was still G major, although technically D Mixolydian. He looked stunned lol. I continued down to the A string with A Dorian and finished with E minor. Changing just the one note necessary on each string. It worked! He now knows G major/E minor across his whole bass

[@RobfromNorCal]

I've been asking about modes. And it's hard to ask the question if you don't know the right words. And I've thought about playing a scale but starting on every different note of the scale, or as you said degree. I know how to read music and I know some music theory but I never got into modes in marching band. So thank you for confirming what I already thought but couldn't put the into words to ask people who knew more music theory than I do. Thank you.

[@jagged_little_phil]

It's quite simple... I see Rich Brown, I click thumbs up

[@richbrownbass]

And this...makes me happy. 🙏🏾

[@marcusparnell2403]

This is such a great lesson Rich. Your lessons are brilliant.

[@richbrownbass]

Thank you so much, Marcus. That means a lot.

[@deeginese6756]

This is the most useful and enlightening explanation of modes I've ever heard. You're the man! Thank you!

[@brandiethrift4140]

👀🎸 great lesson! 👍🏽

[@paulpennell7]

Iv'e just unlocked another part of my brain - Thanks Rich you are the best

[@isaacnanor6618]

God Bless You Sir Rich.

[@richbrownbass]

Thank you very much, Isaac! 🙏🏾 Continued blessings to you and yours, brother.

[@Thayofonzi]

I dig this Rich. Just got to know your lessons thru Online No Treble magazine. Great teaching style.

[@N0B0DY_SP3C14L]

Thank you for laying it out like this. It made sense. It also helps me rethink things like Nashville Notation, where scale degrees are written instead of staff notation. It will also help me with different positions on the neck. Thank you for, as always, your kindness and generosity with the gifts of knowledge and encouragement. Respect.

[@richbrownbass]

You're very welcome! I appreciate you tuning in.

[@N0B0DY_SP3C14L]

@@richbrownbass Brother, you keep dropping the knowledge, and sharing the love. I will continue to study your teachings and put them to good use.

[@bouncingswordsful]

Awesome lesson as always sir, love how you have made modes seem less scary. Will need to rewatch a few times to fully digest and understand but with your style of teaching I don’t think that will be to difficult. Again thank you for making great videos

[@richbrownbass]

You got this, Matt. Thanks so much for the kind words.

[@JamesGaskins1956]

I’m 68 and have been playing since I was 13. i finally understand the modes! 🙏🏽❤🙏🏽

[@calledintoquestiontrivia383]

Hey Rich, I just love your lessons. Dig your vibe, your playing, and your teaching style. Thank you for making great videos!

[@richbrownbass]

Thank you so much!🙏🏾

[@TitoCP13]

Another great lesson! Thanks and greetings from Brazil!!

[@richbrownbass]

Muito obrigado, Tito. Thank you very much for watching.

[@z-pray7460]

This just blew my mind and unlocked so much more of my understanding of the fretboard. Thank you so much for putting this content out for free. I can't wait to apply these principles when I play live!

[@Old_Man_Jay]

I finally get it!! Watched this after watching your scales video and man, I’ve learned SO MUCH than I ever have! Thanks so much, man! You’re such a great teacher! I can’t thank you enough!

[@warwickdennis4114]

I really appreciate your teaching for making the bass more understandable. Thank You

[@richarda7346]

Excellent Rich...easier to understand.

[@JoshuaDb_The_Witness]

Context is key! Rich man I cannot thank you enough for this. This is a great window into modes. Just getting back to the stuff after years away, super helpful! Thanks man!

[@richbrownbass]

I'm so glad. Thank you, Joshua.

[@courierdove]

So funny. You said only 20 people would be interested in this video 😂 great work! Thank you

[@nivekt24]

i am new to modes, but have been playing the bass with limited knowledge for a very long!!.. appreciate your help neighbour. :)

[@daviddyessii1126]

LOVED the lesson. If you use something like Neck Diagrams to illustrate what you are trying to teach it would paint your picture to where it is even better understood.

[@2277Blackman]

Wow finally some one that makes all the sense 👏

[@ashl3ymusic]

I Needed This Lesson. Thank You So Much. 🙏🏽

[@mackymaca]

Hot damn... this just blew my mind on how Rich made it so much simpler. Thanks, man!

[@richbrownbass]

My pleasure, Macky. Thank you for watching.

[@dopamine-bandit]

duuuude, this video helps sooo much you don't even know. I mean you've single handedly explained the way modes work perfectly to me. I LOVE YOU

[@darrellhughes4966]

Darrell from Philadelphia pa. I really enjoy your videos and like your style oh teaching

[@charlesjobealford1490]

Very helpful thank you Mr.Brown

[@davidgerrard8661]

Superb!

[@mozr5053]

You have officially lost yo mind with these intros....🤣🤣🤣 Love you brotha!

[@richbrownbass]

LOL! 😁

[@andreegunter7483]

Would love to see a video on Vocabulary. How to take a line and make it your own. Maybe some ideas and concepts to help you get that vocab in your playing

[@richbrownbass]

I can do that, Andree. Thank you for the suggestion, and thanks for watching.

[@joshuachanwj]

Great way to explain modes in the most creative and easy to understand. Love this video

[@ctdvargas]

this lesson was amazing. thanks Mr. brownstone!!!

[@richbrownbass]

My pleasure! Thank you for watching.

[@bntaft5133]

Thank you. Finally, it makes sense!

[@richbrownbass]

Yes! They don't have to be complicated. I struggled with these for so long, until I finally came up with something that made sense to me. Thank you, Berry.

[@lelandstronks319]

Thx good lesson.👍🎼

[@widonaegele9465]

The best Information for me! It helps me a lot! Thank you!

[@gershonisa7920]

Great job sir. Please be indicating the solfas on the screen while you teach.

[@renzogentile7865]

I have worked for years on modal scales,blood sweat and tears , but I never go far your explanations is easy fun and give the tools to boost up!!! Thanks again

[@richbrownbass]

My pleasure, Renzo. Nice to know the video helped you. Thanks for watching!

[@Celly51]

great teaching rich! thank you

[@movesthesoul]

Defiinitely needed this! I've been playing bass for quite some time now, and several years back i took some lessons just to open my mind to new ways of exploring my instrument. The first thing my teacher taught me was this! And this was definitely a game-changer. So glad i came across this video, as it serves as the perfect reminder! Subscribed! 😁

[@richbrownbass]

This is what I love to hear. Thank you very much for subscribing.

[@dovydas6231]

wow amazing content, been strugling to understand but you made it so much clearer thankyou!!!!!!

[@muradaliyev9944]

Wow, this is such a unique approach, the whole thing finally makes sense, thanks Rich!

[@boimonday5267]

Nice one

[@Tuldanwattana666]

Thanks again Rich,I've been busy last few weeks hope I can catch up your video that I've missed!!

[@richbrownbass]

Hey Tul. Welcome back. Take your time, brother. No pressure. These videos aren't going anywhere. 👍😁

[@miketaylor1665]

Finally understand Modes! Thank you sir! Just gotta practice now.

[@Pretaxorpheus00]

Just watched this video for the first time, it helped me understand modes a lot more I can’t wait to practice!

[@bassmusicman2034]

Great lessons… these will definitely open up my solos and playing thanks a million..I play a 7 string Bass so this will really open me up to do more things on every scale

[@richbrownbass]

That’s amazing! Props to you for taking on that extended range.

[@frankverrico8804]

Bass Musicman...I bought a 7 string a few years back. No one knows how it gets tuned. Is the lower string tuned to F#? Or Low B? If F#...I'd there a tuner on the market that goes that low?

[@richbrownbass]

@@frankverrico8804 Very cool, Frank. I'm pretty sure 7-strings go from a low B to a high F. At least the ones I've seen.

[@paulleeming5733]

great Rich, getting my head around the modes a lot more.

[@davidloflin3098]

Rich I honestly have not understood for years why you don't play different shapes from the same root note when playing the modes. I think I've been afraid to ask really so thanks man, that makes so much sense. Keep it coming, you're awesome my friend.

[@richbrownbass]

Thank you very much, David! That means a lot.

[@timothykenney5403]

Brilliant. Finally... a use for the modes that is actually useful.

[@sheldonsmith9438]

Wonderful...thank you Rich. I have some great homework now.

[@ronniecraft3895]

very good stuff to learn , thanks Rich !!!!!!

[@richbrownbass]

Thank you, Ronnie. Much appreciated!

[@robbalbrecht]

This is amazing, Rich. I was super confused on how the modes worked but this video made it way easier to visualize the connections. Thanks!!!