Bass Transcription: Mattia La Maida’s Solo Bass Arrangement of Stevie Wonder’s “Superstition”

Editor’s note: When we shared Mattia La Maida’s solo bass arrangement of Stevie Wonder’s “Superstition” a couple of weeks ago, it was a huge hit. Mattia decided to offer up the transcription and notes.

The first thing we have to consider to play this arrangement is the accents. The trick is to emphasize the 2nd and 4th movement, just as a drummer would do with the snare drum. To do this use the “strum” technique (think Stanley Clarke in School Days), accenting the 2nd and 4th movement where I can try to keep it constant, just like a snare.

Another important thing to keep in mind is the exposure of the theme, to separate the two parts: voice and accompaniment. I play the theme (Stevie’s singing) with a more intense dynamics, trying to keep the accompaniment as simple as possible (only E).

I hope these tips will be useful. Enjoy the transcription!

Download the transcription and follow along with the video:

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