“Inner City Blues (Make Me Wanna Holler)”: The Legendary Motown Bass Line That’s Actually Two Bass Parts
In this episode, we’re diving into an amazing song from Marvin Gaye’s 1971 masterpiece, What’s Going On? (Tamla), and one of the great bass lines from that iconic album: “Inner City Blues (Make Me Wanna Holler).”
I break down EXACTLY what you’re hearing on the recording, legendary bassist Bob Babbitt’s genius playing, and how one track of bass wasn’t enough for this incredible song.
Key of Eb minor, y’all. Check this out!
Paul Thompson has been playing bass professionally for over 30 years, including recording and touring stints with trumpeter Maynard Ferguson and saxophonist Stanley Turrentine. Recent playing credits include Bob Reynolds, John Pizzarelli, Jeff 'Tain' Watts, and Bob James, among others. Currently, he can be seen playing in and around the Pittsburgh, PA area with the THOTH Trio, the Pittsburgh Jazz Orchestra, and many other musicians in the city's rich Jazz community. An educator of over 25 years, Paul currently teaches Jazz Bass at Duquesne University, West Virginia University, and his alma mater, Pittsburgh CAPA 6-12 Performing Arts School.
Connect with Paul on Instagram, Twitter, Youtube, and his website.
