A Bassist’s Perspective on Pick Playing

Hello!
I’m Mieno, the bassist for the Hammond organ trio Banana Needle.

Today, I want to dive into the topic of picks.

I transitioned from guitar to bass not because there was no bassist but because…

I struggled with pick playing.

As a high schooler, I couldn’t grasp the feel of playing with a plastic pick on the guitar.

One day at a music store,
I saw a staff member playing bass—

with their fingers!

That was my ‘aha’ moment. I gave up on guitar and switched to bass, where I didn’t have to use a pick.

Since then, I’ve admired bassists who can play coolly with a pick.

As a former member of a Yellow Monkey cover band, HEESEY is an inspiration!

“Spark” / The Yellow Monkey

I have nothing more to say—Koji Ueno is just incredible!

“Sekai no Owari” / Thee Michelle Gun Elephant

Unparalleled funkiness by Bobby!

Pick Bass Groove / Bobby Vega

And my eternal inspiration, Anthony Jackson!

“Flashback” / Hiromi Uehara The Trio Project

There are so many styles of pick playing, and they all look undeniably cool.

Since picks are made of harder materials than fingers, they deliver a sharper attack and allow for a variety of tones depending on the material.

For the past few years, I’ve been secretly practicing with picks. Well, let’s just say it’s been... a journey, haha.

That said, even as a beginner with picks, I’d like to introduce some options that I find easy to use!

PICKBOY GP-TG-RB/08

This type is quite easy to play.
One downside is that it can be hard to find if dropped on a black floor stage. Haha.

PICKBOY GP-TG-R/08

This one is made of a different material. I feel like the white ones are smoother and produce a clearer tone compared to the black ones.

Also, they’re easier to find if dropped. Haha.

Jim Dunlop Ultex Triangle/0.88

This one is made of a different material too, and the yellow translucent kind feels softer, almost like it has less weight to the sound.

Sorry for the vague comment, haha.

All of these are triangle-shaped, which makes them versatile since you can play from any of the three points.

Plus, they’re easy to grip since they’re large.

PICKBOY GP-TG-TB/08

It’s the same brand and thickness, but this one is in a teardrop shape.

The pointed tip makes it more precise compared to the triangular one.

It offers better maneuverability and ease for fast phrases.

There are also various thickness options available.

Jim Dunlop Big Stubby/3.00

This one is 3mm thick.

I used to love its candy-like look.

For bass, it’s best to use picks that are at least 0.8mm thick.

Too thick can be hard to control, so find a thickness that feels just right.

Also, I’ve heard Anthony Jackson uses metal picks.

Jim Dunlop 467R Teckpick Clear

This pick is made from a less commonly used material, which gives it a unique sound that allows you to express your individuality. It’s a great pick for those looking for something distinct.

Let’s continue building our collection of picks together!

Lately, I’ve been enjoying the way I hold the pick in the photo.
(Playing with the larger end of the teardrop shape)

See you again soon!

The “sound & person” column is made up of contributions from you.
For details about contributing, click here.