Stuart Clayton: Giants of Bass – Jaco Pastorius

I’m always impressed with Stuart Clayton’s “Giants of Bass” video series. The companion to his books by the same name, Stuart breaks down the styles of various bassists with an original piece. His ability to write music in the style of so many bassists is just remarkable.

Stuart wrote “A Portrait of Jaco,” to “reflect Jaco’s work both as a solo artist, and with pioneering fusion outfit Weather Report. The bassline for this piece is a busy, syncopated part that is very challenging to play up to tempo. As well as the groove elements, it also features harmonics, chordal parts and a complex bass solo. The entire line also has an improvised feel to it, and therefore includes very little repetition.”

This track was performed on a Millman Jazz Bass.

Stuart’s Bassline Publishing website has a more in-depth lesson available, for subscribers.