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Bass Transcription – Silly Love Songs from Wings Over America By Rob Collier
Bass Transcription – Silly Love Songs from Wings Over America By Rob Collier… Click to dowload the bass transcription for Silly Love Songs
This summer Paul McCartney released a remastered edition of Wings’ classic live triple album, Wings Over America, which documents the American leg of the band’s monumental world tour of 1975-76. The album is available in various packages, including vinyl and an elaborate four-disc deluxe edition. Accompanying the album release is a DVD/Blu-ray release of Rock Show, the concert film from the same tour. This is Wings at the height of their popularity, and arguably their tightest, most impressive lineup on stage.
Much has been written about McCartney’s bass lines with the Beatles. His playing with Wings, however, is often overlooked. Wings tended to be a more straight-ahead, pop/rock band, far less experimental than the Beatles. By comparison, McCartney’s bass lines on Wings records are perhaps less innovative, but every album in their catalog has at least a couple of bass gems. (Check out “No Words,” “Mrs. Vandebilt,” “Big Barn Bed,” “Getting Closer,” “Rock Show,” and “Love is Strange” for starters.)
The Wings’ song most often singled out for its classic bass line is “Silly Love Songs,” from Wings at the Speed of Sound. This song was a hit single at the time of the 1976 world tour and was a crowd favorite night after night. Written in response to critics’ complaints of McCartney’s tendency towards sappy pop ditties, “Silly Love Songs” actually exhibits a fairly sophisticated formal structure. Though the song is roughly six minutes long, there are only two verses, which leaves approximately five minutes for horn breaks, a bridge, and multiple vocal melodies layered in various configurations.
Because there are so many sections, applying traditional labels like “chorus” and “bridge” becomes problematic. Thus, in the table below, I’ve labeled each section according to the lyrics of the particular section, with a couple of exceptions. The verse (“You’d think that people would have had enough of silly love songs…”) is easy to identify—it begins and ends the song, but occurs nowhere else. The horn riff happens three times with no vocals present. What could be considered the bridge (“Love doesn’t come in a minute…”) occurs only once, midway through the song.
“Silly Love Songs” Form
Meas. 1-5 Percussion intro
Meas. 6-9 Band intro
Meas. 10-21 Verse
Meas. 22-29 “What’s wrong with that?”
Meas. 30-33 “I love you”
Meas. 34-38 “I can’t explain”
Meas. 39-46 “What’s wrong with that?”
Meas. 47-54 “I love you”
Meas. 55-65 Bridge (“Love doesn’t come in a minute”)
Meas. 66-81 Horn riff
Meas. 82-89 “How can I tell”
Meas. 90-97 “How can I tell/I love you”
Meas. 98-113 Horn riff
Meas. 114-121 “I love you”
Meas. 122-129 “I love you/I can’t explain”
Meas. 130-145 “I love you/I can’t explain/How can I tell”
Meas. 146-149 Horn riff
Meas. 150-162 Verse
Notice that, though there is much repetition of material, the order of the sections is anything but regular. For instance, each time the horn riff occurs, it is preceded and succeeded by a different section.
Additionally, though there are so many melodic components, the band has only a few different “rhythmic accompaniments” that it plays throughout the song. Because of their similar chord progressions, the “I love you,” “I can’t explain,” and “How can I tell” sections may occur in various combinations over either the verse groove (mm. 30-38), or one of the more sparse accompaniments (mm. 113-145).
For much of the song, McCartney plays a very bouncy, energetic bass line. The verse groove, the most interesting part, consists largely of short, punchy notes, but with subtle and well-placed accents and occasional ghost notes. Getting the feel of the groove right is much more important than the actual notes. If you play through the line without any accents or staccatos, the straight eighth notes will sound lifeless and boring. Though McCartney varies the phrasing of the line throughout the song, thinking of the eighth notes as “bum-pah, bum-pah” (rather than “da-da-da-da” or “bum-bum-bum-bum”) will go a long way toward achieving the right feel.
This lively groove appears during multiple sections of the song: the verse, “I love you,” “I can’t explain,” as well as underneath the horn riff. During the more sparse sections, McCartney achieves great sustain and superb tone, particularly on notes in the upper register, which are given a subtle, singing vibrato.
The bass line is impressive enough on its own, but is even more remarkable considering it was played live while McCartney was singing the lead vocal. It’s an active little groove, and it can be difficult to get the feel exactly right, but he nailed it while also delivering a stellar vocal performance.
Though McCartney will forever be associated with the violin shaped Hofner 500/1, his primary studio instrument from late ’65 through the end of the Beatles recording career was a 1964 Rickenbacker 4001S. This bass became his studio and stage instrument throughout his tenure with Wings, being used on every album and every tour. It was to Wings what the Hofner was to the Beatles.
McCartney’s Rickenbacker always had a great tone, but on “Silly Love Songs” from the newly remastered Wings Over America, it has seldom sounded better.
Click to dowload the bass transcription for Silly Love Songs
Positive Grid launches Spark 2, the next evolution of their cutting-edge smart guitar practice amplifiers and Bluetooth® speakers.
Engineered for acoustic, electric guitar, and bass, Spark 2 delivers an immersive practice and playing experience. Enjoy detailed sound and an all-new upgraded speaker design powered by Positive Grid’s exclusive Sonic IQ Computational Audio technology. With an onboard creative looper, optional battery power, and intuitive AI features for tone exploration and practice, Spark 2 is the gateway to a musical experience that goes beyond expectations.
Proprietary Audio and Advanced Technology
Spark 2 represents a leap forward in amplifier design. It integrates a new DSP amp modeling engine with double the processing power, and at 50 Watts, it packs 25% more volume than the original. Positive Grid’s proprietary Sonic IQ Computational Audio delivers incredibly detailed and dynamic sound. New HD amp models, enhanced by multi-band dynamic range compression and virtual bass augmentation, redefine the sonic landscape.
Equipped with two premium FRFR speakers and reflex ports, Spark 2 offers wide stereo imaging and broader frequency response, ensuring refined bass and clear, immersive sound.
Built-In Creative Looper
Spark 2’s built-in Groove Looper features hundreds of hyper-realistic drum tracks. From basic loops to multi-layered soundscapes or the ultimate jam session, this intuitive tool inspires endless creativity. Onboard amp controls provide quick, on-the-go looping functionality.
AI-Powered Tone and Smart Jam
Spark AI revolutionizes tone exploration. Describe any desired tone in the Spark app – from practical to outlandish – and Spark AI will suggest tones to audition or download. The more it’s used, the smarter it gets, delivering the perfect sound.
Additional smart features make it easy to practice, learn new songs and improve playing skills. Smart Jam listens to the user’s playing style and generates accompanying bass and drum parts, while Auto Chords analyzes any song streamed and displays the guitar chords in real time, to make learning and practicing new songs easier than ever.
Enhanced Hardware Design and Portability
Spark 2 allows for storing up to eight customizable presets directly on the amp for quick access to favorite sounds. Perfect the tone with large, visible onboard controls for looper, EQ, gain, reverb, and more.
Designed for convenience, an optional rechargeable battery provides up to 12 hours of playtime for on-the-go sessions. The new double-thick strap and durable build ensure easy and secure transport. Spark 2 is also Bluetooth® ready, allowing for music streaming and jamming along with favorite tracks anytime, anywhere.
Multiple Outputs and Advanced Features
Spark 2 offers versatile connectivity with a headphone out for private practice, stereo line outs for external audio sources, and a USB-C port which enables it to function as an audio interface. WiFi-enabled, Spark 2 allows convenient over-the-air firmware updates, keeping the amp up to date with the latest features and improvements.
“I’ve used a ton of practice amps while touring the world for over 38 years and it was always just a technical, bland exercise,” says guitar virtuoso, singer-songwriter and producer Nuno Bettencourt. “Spark 2 is like taking Madison Square Garden wherever you go – epic and versatile.”
Color Options
Available in Pearl or Black finish with a dark weave grille and premium finish.
Special Event, Upgrade Pricing & Availability
Join the special live premiere event featuring Nuno Bettencourt and surprise guests on August 1, 2024, at 8:00 am PT/11:00 am ET. Visit positivegrid.com/pages/livestream for more details and to sign up for a reminder.
Regularly USD $299, Spark 2 will be available at special early bird pricing during the pre-order period. Registered Spark 40 owners can also receive exclusive upgrade pricing.
For more information and to sign up for pre-order alerts, visit positivegrid.com/products/spark-2.
A review of the Joyo Gloam – Sub Octave Fuzz Pedal for Bass
Disclaimer: This pedal was kindly provided by Joyo for the purpose of this review. However, this does not influence our opinions or the content of our reviews. We strive to provide honest, unbiased, and accurate assessments to ensure that our readers receive truthful and helpful information.
Introduction: The Joyo Gloam is a sub-octave fuzz pedal specifically designed for bass players, combining modern sub-octave effects with rich fuzz tones. With two independently controlled circuits, the Gloam aims to provide a versatile range of sounds, from deep, aggressive fuzz to Moog-like synth effects. This review will explore the Gloam’s specifications, controls, and overall performance, highlighting both its strengths and areas for improvement.
Specifications:
- Dimensions: 130 * 110 * 50 mm
- Weight: 403g
- Working Voltage: DC 9V
- Controls: The Joyo Gloam features a comprehensive control set designed to provide bassists with a wide range of tonal options:
- Dry Tone: Adjusts the tone of the clean signal.
- Dry Volume: Controls the volume of the clean signal.
- Sub Octave Volume: Adjusts the volume of the sub octave signal.
- Gain: Controls the amount of gain in the fuzz circuit.
- Fuzz: Adjusts the intensity of the fuzz effect.
- Bass: Controls the bass frequencies in the fuzz circuit.
- Treble: Adjusts the treble frequencies in the fuzz circuit.
- Fuzz Mode Switch: Switches between two different fuzz modes.
- Dry Tone Frequency Switch: Selects between two different frequency points for the dry tone.
Performance: The Joyo Gloam excels in its dual-circuit design, offering both a sub octave and a fuzz channel that can be controlled individually. However, it’s important to note that the octaver cannot be used without the fuzz circuit activated; the only way to solo the octaver is by turning down the fuzz while both channels are engaged.
Fuzz Circuit: The fuzz circuit includes standard controls such as gain, volume, bass, and treble, along with a fuzz mode switch that toggles between two distinct fuzz modes. While one of the fuzz modes is highly usable and delivers a rich, aggressive tone, the other mode falls short and is less practical for most applications.
Octaver Circuit: The octaver circuit features controls for sub octave volume, clean volume, and clean tone, along with a dry tone frequency switch that provides two different frequency options. This allows for significant tonal versatility, enabling bassists to fine-tune their sound to match their preferences. Despite its limitation of being tied to the fuzz circuit, the octaver produces a deep, balanced sound that stands out.
Combined Effect: When used together, the fuzz and octaver circuits create a wide range of sounds, from classic, aggressive fuzz to synth-like tones reminiscent of a Moog synthesizer. This combination makes the Gloam a powerful tool for bassists seeking to experiment with their sound and achieve unique, textured tones.
Pros:
- Versatile Controls: Extensive control options for both fuzz and octaver circuits.
- Rich Tones: Delivers deep, aggressive fuzz and balanced octaver sounds.
- Sturdy Construction: Durable build quality ensures reliability.
- Wide Range of Sounds: Capable of producing everything from classic fuzz to synth-like effects.
Cons:
- Unusable Fuzz Mode: One of the fuzz modes is less practical.
- Dependent Octaver: Octaver cannot be used independently of the fuzz circuit.
Conclusion: In conclusion, the Joyo Gloam sub-octave fuzz pedal offers a versatile and powerful option for bassists looking to expand their tonal palette. Despite some flaws, the Gloam delivers impressive sounds and flexibility. Its combination of rich fuzz and deep octaver tones, coupled with a sturdy construction, makes it a valuable addition to any bassist’s pedalboard. For those seeking a modern bass distortion with the added depth of sub-octave effects, the Joyo Gloam is a compelling choice for a very compelling price.
Visit online at joyoaudio.com/product/281.html
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Behind the Strings – Jim’s Corner…
D’Addario & Co. proudly announces the launch of “Jim’s Corner,” a captivating new YouTube series telling the 400-year-old story of the D’Addario family creating the world’s largest music accessories company. This series features Jim D’Addario, Founder and Director of Innovation at D’Addario and Co., sharing his family’s remarkable journey from 17th century Italy to a 21st century global enterprise.
In the first four episodes now available, Jim D’Addario takes viewers back to the beginning, making strings from animal guts and knotting ukulele wire as a family around the television. Countless generations carried the passion forward until the 1970s when the company made it official and never looked back. Jim recounts the creation of strings that inspired legendary riffs, including one by The Who, the launch of Darco strings, the merger with Martin Guitars and the company’s humble beginnings with his wife, Janet and brother, John. Jim D’Addario’s firsthand accounts provide an intimate and personal perspective on the milestones and challenges that shaped D’Addario into the revered brand it is today.
Episode Highlights:
- Episode 1: The Early Days in Italy and the Move to America
- Episode 2: Inspiring Iconic Riffs and Legendary Partnerships
- Episode 3: Launching Darco Strings and Merging with Martin Guitars
- Episode 4: Building the D’Addario and Co. Legacy
Watch & Subscribe Now:
Join us in celebrating this incredible legacy by watching the first four episodes of “Jim’s Corner” on YouTube. New episodes will drop every month so please subscribe to our channel to ensure you don’t miss any future episodes and exclusive content from D’Addario & Co.: www.youtube.com/@daddarioandco
Gear News
Gear News: Aguilar Amplification Unveils Limited Edition NYC Gold Skyline Tone Hammer Preamp
Aguilar Amplification announces the release of the Limited Edition NYC Gold Skyline Tone Hammer Preamp pedal. Hand serialized 1-100, this exclusive edition celebrates Aguilar’s deep roots in New York City with a tribute to its iconic landmarks and vibrant spirit.
Born in the heart of NYC and raised on the road, the Tone Hammer Preamp DI has been an indispensable tool for bassists seeking inspiring tone and versatility. The new Limited Edition Gold NYC builds on this legacy with striking custom graphics encapsulating the essence of New York City. Featuring iconic landmarks from the Statue of Liberty to the Empire State Building, this pedal is not just a tool, but a piece of art embodying the soul of the city. Each unit features a sharp platinum silkscreen over a stunning matte gold sparkle finish, that is as visually captivating as it is sonically powerful.
The Tone Hammer is an essential preamp/direct box for every bassist’s toolbox. The Tone Hammer features fully sweepable midrange frequencies in addition to bass and treble controls. With the Tone Hammer’s pristine D.I. players are set for either studio or stage. To give this tone shaping unit the ultimate flexibility we introduce our proprietary Adaptive Gain Shaping circuitry (AGS). AGS allows the player to kick in an additional gain structure and EQ with the “stomp” of a button. You can go from modern slap sounds to vintage or overdriven. 18-volt operation gives the Tone Hammer plenty of headroom to reproduce the most dynamic playing styles. Separate gain and master controls allow players to dial in just the right gain structure for any instrument.
Aguilar Amplification’s Jordan Cortese adds, “With only 100 hand-numbered units available, this third iteration of our NYC edition Tone Hammer is a collector’s dream. “It’s a homage to our city’s monumental influence on music and culture and celebrates the craftsmanship and the story of Aguilar”.
Street price: $299.99 For more information, please visit www.aguilaramp.com
Gear News: Future Impact V4 Guitar & Bass Synth Now Available in the U.S.
Interview With Barker Bass’s Inventor and Writer Lee Barker
Working-Class Zeros: Episode #4 – Boutique and Vintage Basses, Dress Code for Summer Gigs
Gear News: Ibanez & Graph Tech Launch Multi-Scale Bass with Cutting-Edge Tuning
Album: John Entwistle, Rarities Oxhumed – Volume Two
July 22 Edition – This Week’s Top 10 Basses on Instagram
Gear News: Positive Grid Launches Spark 2
Gear Review: Exploring the Joyo Gloam – Sub Octave Fuzz Pedal for Bass
Alberto Rigoni On Unexpected Lullabies
