This is an example of a hip-hop shuffle groove.

Audio Example 1

Audio Example 1 (Drums)

 

Although hip-hop grooves are commonly shuffles, that’s certainly not a requirement. Here’s an example of a straight hip-hop feel.

Audio Example 2

 

Audio Example 2 (Drums)

 
 

IDIOMS

RHYTHMIC:

Usually based around a 16th-note subdivision. Although the fundamental bass line/kick drum figure in many hip-hop grooves might have an 8th-note subdivision, the ghost notes and embellishments will normally allude to 16th’s.

As the desired effect of the bass & drums in the hip-hop context is to THUMP (evidenced by the subwoofer-induced ground tremors beneath so many vehicles these days!), it stands to reason that hip-hop bass lines tend to adhere to the kick drum pattern for the most part (with a few occasional embellishments).

In terms of the time feel, hip-hop bass lines are normally played either spot on (for medium and up tempos) or on the back (particularly for slower tempos).

HARMONIC:

A majority of hip-hop grooves seem to be based around minor 7th tonalities, for which the meat and potatoes intervals (root, 5th and b7th) work well. The minor pentatonic scale (root, b3rd, 4th, 5th, b7th) also incorporates effectively in this type of hip-hop vein. Diatonic harmony seems to be the norm; chromaticism isn’t usually heard unless the tune is combining hip-hop with jazz.

SONIC:

Warm, deep thump is the general objective in a hip-hop setting. Many bass lines in this context are synth bass, so it’s usually most effective to minimize string/fret noise, generously contribute sub-bass frequencies through liberal (though not exclusive - that can get old) use of the low B string, and endeavor to make the combined bass/kick drum sound earthmoving.

GENERAL:

An argument could be made that hip-hop is fundamentally mechanical music: it employs drum loops and/or sequenced drums (as opposed to a live drummer) the vast majority of the time. That stated, some of the hippest contributions that a bassist can bring to the hip-hop context are the subtle nuances of human feel, phrasing, and overall musicality. Even if the tune calls for a simple and repetitious pattern, a solid, tasteful and emotive groove played by a living, breathing bassist can enhance a tune immeasurably.

Authentic hip-hop bass grooves convey attitude. Avoid passivity - play like you really mean it. Don’t play too many notes, and make the notes you are playing say something. PLAY A PART...and become one with the drums/loop/sequencer.