Stuff! Good Bass Players Should Know: An A-Z Guide to Getting Better by bassist and educator Glenn Letsch is a comprehensive bass guitar instruction book designed for players who want to expand their technique, musical understanding, and real-world playing skills. Organized in a clear A-Z format, it offers practical insight and accessible guidance, making it a strong resource for developing and self-taught bassists aiming to move beyond the basics.
This book combines bass tablature with detailed instruction and online audio, allowing players to connect written concepts directly to sound. The recordings present examples in both solo bass and full-band contexts, helping you understand how grooves and techniques function in real musical settings. With PLAYBACK+ tools, you can slow down tracks, loop sections, change keys, and isolate parts to support more focused and effective practice.
Covering a wide stylistic range including rock, jazz, blues, R&B, and funk, the book explores essential techniques and concepts that shape a well-rounded bassist. From foundational skills to expressive phrasing and groove development, it connects technical knowledge with musical application. Guidance on equipment, recording, and the music business adds practical value for players looking to perform, record, or collaborate with greater confidence.
Topics Covered
Arpeggios * Chucking * Fretless Bass * Ghost Notes * Isometrics * Raking * Slapping and Popping * Walking Bass Lines * Zydeco Bass
Whether used for structured practice, creative exploration, or as a long-term reference, this book supports steady growth and keeps practice sessions purposeful. It also makes a thoughtful gift for bass players seeking inspiration, offering a balanced blend of technique, style, and musical insight that rewards revisiting over time.