Jaime David Vazquez – BASS LINES: Famous Bass Intros Part 1

Hello bass players and fans of bass playing! This month we will start a whole new series of articles about the famous bass intros.

Our first one, was named one of The Rock and Roll Hall of Fame’s 500 Songs that Shaped Rock and Roll, Rush’s only such entry.

The song was among five Rush songs inducted into the Canadian Songwriters Hall of Fame on March 28, 2010. Yes! I’m talking about “The Spirit of Radio.” The was released in 1980 by the Canadian rock band from their album Permanent Waves.

The song’s name was inspired by Toronto radio station CFNY’s slogan. The song was significant in the growing popularity of the band.

The song is in the key of E major. There are tempo changes, time signature changes… Remember! Is the amazing bass player Geddy Lee. So, be prepared for full bass attack!

“Begin the day with a friendly voice
A companion unobtrusive
Plays that song that’s so elusive
And the magic music makes your morning mood”
– Neil Peart

Fig. 1 – Play moderately! The quarter note it is played at 135bpm. 

Fig. 2 – Play it fast! The bass line it is played at 180bpm with a half-time feel.

Fig. 3 – Go back to the original tempo. The quarter note it is played at 135bpm.