Introduction

If you’re a fan of funk and soul music, chances are you’ve heard “Use Me” by Bill Withers. This classic track features a groovy bassline that’s not only fun to listen to, but also fun to play. In this article, we’ll show you how to play “Use Me” on bass with easy-to-follow tabs. Whether you’re a beginner or a seasoned pro, these tabs will help you master this iconic bassline.

How to Play “Use Me” on Bass

Before diving into the tabs, let’s break down the basic structure of “Use Me.” The song is in the key of E major and follows a basic chord progression of E – A – B. The bassline mostly follows the root notes of these chords, with some added flourishes and variations to keep things interesting.

Now, let’s take a look at the tabs. These tabs are designed for a four-string bass tuned to standard tuning (E – A – D – G).

Verse

The verse section of “Use Me” features a simple but effective bassline that lays down the foundation of the song. Here’s how to play it:

• The first note is the open E string
• Play the 2nd fret on the D string
• Play the open A string
• Play the 2nd fret on the A string
• Repeat

Practice this section until you can play it smoothly and consistently. The rhythm is key here, so be sure to pay attention to the timing of each note.

Chorus

The chorus section of “Use Me” features a more melodic bassline that complements the vocal melody. Here’s how to play it:

• Start on the 9th fret of the G string
• Play the 7th fret of the D string
• Play the 9th fret of the A string
• Slide up to the 11th fret on the A string
• Play the 9th fret of the D string
• Play the 11th fret of the A string
• Slide down to the 2nd fret of the A string

Again, timing is key for this section. Focus on playing the notes cleanly and keeping a steady rhythm.

Bridge

The bridge section of “Use Me” features an alternating bassline that adds some extra funk to the song. Here’s how to play it:

• Start on the 4th fret of the D string
• Play the open A string
• Play the 2nd fret of the A string
• Play the open D string
• Repeat

This section may take some extra practice to get the rhythm down, but it’s worth the effort. The alternating bassline creates a funky groove that’s sure to get people dancing.

Conclusion

Congratulations! You now know how to play “Use Me” by Bill Withers on bass. With these tabs, you can impress your friends and jam along with the song like a pro. Remember to practice slowly and focus on getting the timing right.

These tabs are just the beginning. Once you’ve mastered this bassline, try experimenting with your own variations and improvisations. That’s the beauty of playing bass – there’s always room for creativity. Happy playing!