Hi, I’m Shawn, and I decided to learn the bass and not completely suck.

Welcome to AboveAverageBass.com! I’m Shawn, and a few years ago, I decided to teach myself to play the bass using the huge variety of online resources out there. I’ve spent far too many hours (and probably too much money) buying online courses that didn’t click for me, watching YouTube lessons that were too much talk and not enough learning, and chasing the next best thing that would turn me from Bass Newb to Victor Wooten and Flea’s love child. (Just picture that kid.) I started this site because I needed an honest guide, and since I couldn’t find one, I decided to become one.

A graphic novel style image of a man holding a blue bass guitar. A cityscape is scene is in the background and a tip jar sits on a table.

Honest Thoughts

  • Find the right online bass course for you
  • What gear do you actually need to get started and what is only a distraction
  • How to get your bass motivation grooving and how to keep it moving.

Why Me?

  • I’m not selling anything – just telling you what has worked for me and might work for you
  • I’m a regular self-taught player just like you
  • I’ll be your guinea pig

So…Are You Ready to Groove?

Yeah, me to. I’m still using the resources I cover on this site in my own bass journey. I’m still buying gear because I just know the next pedal is going to be the one that transforms me. I’m still going up to random strangers at open mic nights and asking, “Do you need a bass player?” as though I’m at all qualified to play with them. 
The best time to start learning the bass was ten years ago. The next best time is right now.

Beginner bass player on a red bass guitar

Ready to finally become an Above Average Bassist?

Let’s start by checking out the “Big 3” online bass courses.

Read My Review