This is the first in our Quick Tutorial series that will demonstrate how to develop standout parts of songs. We aim to help provide some understanding behind how a song works and how we can help you quickly assemble the sound. These tutorials are aimed at beginners or those without an understanding of music theory. For our Quick Tutorial series we’ll try to steer clear of any advanced techniques and try to provide enough background to build up your skill set.
What Song? Break the Rules
Which Artist? Charli XCX
What Key? Cm (C, D, D#, F, G, G#, A#)
Which Piece? Bassline
Below you’ll find the keyboard/midi roll of the bass structure for the verse that will repeat itself throughout the entire song. As with many basslines, they don’t have a ton of complexity behind them. A bass line does not need to be incredibly complex to sound good. Break The Rules is a prime example of this as it keeps to a simple two-bar pattern which repeats itself throughout the entirety of the song. However, the super gritty feel really makes it pop throughout the song and really become a feature rather than a background support.
If you’re building this bass from the ground up, it’s a saw wave with a good amount of filter. Smooth out the lower frequencies and make the highs rise. That will give you that clicky pop sound with a strong middle pluck. We remove the bottom bass because it will ultimately interfere with any subs or kicks you’re running at that frequency.
Click here to check out the sound.