Bass Note Strumming (Essential Technique)

Video lesson

Editor’s notes

Hey friends! Quick strumming technique video today, where I’ll tackle one of the most essential strumming skills all guitarists should know: bass note strumming. That is, the ability to strum just the bass note (one string) of whatever chord you’re playing – which is usually followed by a full strum (all strings). This one technique can be used in so many ways, from alternating bass notes to the “boom chicka” Johnny Cash style, and more.

In this video, I’ll break this down and show you 5 different steps to progress through this technique:

• Step 1: Bass Note → Full Strum (2:08)
• Step 2: Thickest 2-3 Strings → Full Strum (4:11)
• Step 3: Bringing in a Steady Tempo (5:26)
• Step 4: Light Strums on the Thinnest Strings (9:17)
• Step 5: Turning it into a Strumming Pattern (11:48)
• Final Tips & Advice (13:55)

And of course, there’s a one-page PDF guide you can save and/or print to reference while (or after) you’re viewing my video.

Without doubt, there are dozens and dozens of video lessons I’ve made previously where I rely on this technique – and often I’ve given a 15 second crash course – but I figured it was time to give a deep dive once and for all. I hope you enjoy!

Other strumming videos I’ve made

If you’re interested in other technique videos where I tackle strumming-related topics, I have quite a few! Here’s the list… PDFs exist for most of these.

• Strumming without a pick (Ep. 317)
• Silencing the Strings With Your Left-Hand (Ep. 311)
• Which Guitar Pick I Use and Why (Ep. 300)
• How to Read and Write Strumming Patterns (Ep. 260)
• Palm Muting Basics (Ep. 187)
• Slap Strumming Basics (Ep. 197)