Melody and Bass

[MsB3]

how important would you say the melody is to the bass? any examples or advice are welcome!

[Steelpulz]

Very important. Many times, for instance, the bass line corresponds rythmnically with the melody. Sometimes it is a countermelody. But no matter what it is the foundation upon which the melody rests.

[docjohn]

welll,the bass is what it is,the bottom end-to anchor the basic pulse.It is secondary to the melody;do you hum the bassline or the leadline? Both are necessary for a general structure,the chords fill in the holes.If you give a better picture of where you want to go,I'm sure you will get a wealth of info be blessed!!!   a fav site  www.wayofthemaster.com

[T-Block]

Here's my personal view on it:

Many times the bass is a product of the melody.  You can start out with a good melody, but it won't go anywhere without a bass line.  Think of the melody as planning a trip or vacation.  Then, think of the bass as the vehicle that can get u there.

The bass on the other hand can stand alone if necessary.

[MsB3]

Here's my personal view on it:

Many times the bass is a product of the melody.  You can start out with a good melody, but it won't go anywhere without a bass line.  Think of the melody as planning a trip or vacation.  Then, think of the bass as the vehicle that can get u there.

The bass on the other hand can stand alone if necessary.

I like this response! i always was in the mind frame of having the bass go with the harmony but in theory class the other day we were part writing and my teacher was like wow this is an excellent bassline because it went so well with the melody he got to talkin about counterpoint etc. i was like cool this gives me a new out look on structure!!

[Mysteryman]

Melody is how people remember songs. That is one of the purpose for melody lines. Learn your melody then the bass line. I used to say the other way around but melody should come first. Trust me it will help you more so in the long run.