Volume 4, November 2012
Walk That Dog: The Emergence of Walking Bass Lines In Jazz

by Regan Brough

Abstract: Often credited as the creation of Walter Page, the walking bass line was in reality refined and honed through the contributions of various bass players in the late 1920s. Many early bassists doubled on tuba; it in turn influenced their approach to the bass. As the tuba lost favor and recording technology improved, the bass assumed its current place in jazz. Specific contributions, accompaniment styles and historical information concerning seven early bass players demonstrate that a melting pot of ideas and approaches gradually distilled into what has become the standard practice of walking bass lines.

Introduction

1. Arco Two-Feel

2. Plucked Two-Feel

3. Slap-Bass Technique

4. Summary

5. Early Walking Bassists

Table of Contents