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Master Louis Johnson's Fingerstyle Groove On This Michael McDonald Tune

Feb 04, 2025

 

Are you ready to groove like a legend? Louis Johnson, the bass powerhouse behind countless funk classics, is best known for his thumping slap technique. But here’s the twist—today we're diving into a hidden gem of his: fingerstyle bass mastery.

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In this lesson, you’ll discover how Johnson’s fingerstyle playing is a masterclass in articulation, note length, and groove-tight coordination. Whether you're a beginner or dusting off your bass after a hiatus, this breakdown will sharpen your skills and get you locked in with the beat.

Why This Groove Matters

Louis Johnson’s fingerstyle groove isn’t just cool to play—it’s a blueprint for:

  • Perfecting Articulation: Learn to control note length for a punchy, clean sound.

  • Locking in with the Kick Drum: Discover how bass and drums form the heartbeat of any groove.

  • Pentatonic Simplicity: Use simple scales to create jaw-dropping runs.

Step-by-Step Groove Breakdown

1. Listen First, Groove Later

Start by just listening. Notice how Johnson’s bass locks perfectly with the kick drum. That’s not magic—it’s intentional timing.

2. Intro Groove

  • Open E sets the stage.

  • Add open A to C, then slide to D and E.

  • Focus on how your fretting hand controls note length—think of it like opening and closing a faucet to control water flow.

3. The Pentatonic Spice

  • Simple E minor pentatonic run starting with G.

  • Play: G - E - D - G - E - B with a quick dash of open E - G - E.

  • It’s not about speed—feel the groove.

4. Pre-Chorus (B Section)

  • A classic 2-5-1 progression common in R&B and soul.

  • Target chord: G major with a slick hammer-on from the 4th to the 5th.

  • Play around with G - G# - A - D, keeping it tight.

5. The Bridge

  • Starts on D, with a slightly tricky timing.

  • Pro Tip: Loop this section using SongMaster Pro for focused practice.

Practice Like a Pro

  • Slow It Down: Use SongMaster Pro to loop and slow tricky parts.

  • Kick Drum Buddy: Practice with drum tracks to lock in your timing.

  • Articulation Focus: Mute and release notes intentionally—clean beats make a clean groove.

  • Chromatic Walks: Add flavor with approach notes from above or below your target.

Common Groove Pitfalls

  • Rushing the Beat: Don’t race the groove. Stay chill.

  • Sloppy Note Length: Cut notes with purpose. Sloppy articulation muddies the sound.

  • Overthinking Runs: Keep pentatonic runs simple. Groove over complexity.

Ready to Groove?

Rewatch the video, loop tricky sections, and most importantly—have fun with it. Grooving isn’t about perfection; it’s about feeling the music.

Want more? Join Groove School for lessons that'll keep your bass journey exciting.

PS: Recommended Tools & Resources

Keep practicing, stay curious, and remember—you’re one groove away from your next breakthrough.