Clean Tone
What's Going On
Marvin Gaye
Bassr&b1970s
Original Gear
BassFender Precision Bass (1962, 'Funk Machine')
AmpAmpeg B-15N Portaflex
PickupsSplit single-coil (Precision Bass)
Amp Settings
gain0
bass7
mid6
treble3.5
presence3.5
compression4
Effects & Signal Chain
No effects used for this tone
Notes
Studio recording, Hitsville U.S.A., Detroit, 1970 (album released 1971); classic Motown chain
Tone Character(10)
deep and thumpywarm low endmuted attackwoody midrangesmooth sustainrounded highssubtle compressionno audible drive or gritclassic Motown fullnessno slap or pick noise
Difficulty
While not virtuosic in speed, Jamerson's line is highly syncopated, melodic, and requires advanced fingerstyle nuance, ghost notes, and dynamic control. The phrasing and groove demand a deep sense of feel and timing.
Sources
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Create Free AccountBassr&b1970s
Original Gear
BassFender Precision Bass (1962, 'Funk Machine')
AmpAmpeg B-15N Portaflex
PickupsSplit single-coil (Precision Bass)
Amp Settings
gain0
bass7
mid6
treble3.5
presence3.5
compression4
Effects & Signal Chain
No effects used for this tone
Notes
Studio recording, Hitsville U.S.A., Detroit, 1970 (album released 1971); classic Motown chain
Tone Character(10)
deep and thumpywarm low endmuted attackwoody midrangesmooth sustainrounded highssubtle compressionno audible drive or gritclassic Motown fullnessno slap or pick noise
Difficulty
While not virtuosic in speed, Jamerson's line is highly syncopated, melodic, and requires advanced fingerstyle nuance, ghost notes, and dynamic control. The phrasing and groove demand a deep sense of feel and timing.