Give the bass a melody
Chord changes can feel jumpy when the bass leaps from root to root. A slash chord lets the bass move by step while the chord names stay the same. Between C and Am, play G/B instead of G: the bass goes C, B, A.
- I – I/3 – IV (C – C/E – F): the bass climbs C, E, F.
- I – V/3 – vi (C – G/B – Am): the bass walks down C, B, A.
- The descending line (C – G/B – Am – C/G – F): C, B, A, G, F.
For the theory of slash chords, see slash chords and polychords and inversions. Learn how to use them in the Walking Bass and Slash Chords program.
Frequently asked questions
What is a slash chord?
A chord with a different note in the bass, written as the chord, a slash and the bass note. G/B is a G chord with B in the bass: the 3rd of G sits at the bottom.
Why use slash chords?
To make the bass line move by step instead of leaping. C – G/B – Am gives a bass that walks C, B, A. The chords keep their names; the bass gets a melody of its own.
What is the descending bass line?
C – G/B – Am – C/G (or Am/G) – F: the bass walks down C, B, A, G, F, one step at a time. It underlies countless songs, in pop, folk and hymns.
How do I play a slash chord?
Play the chord as usual and put the bass note in the lowest position (the left hand on piano, or the lowest string on guitar). If the bass note is already in the chord (like the 3rd), it is simply an inversion.