The I -V Formula
The three chord formulas you have so far studied; major, minor and 7th, are summarized in the following table using C as an example.
From this table, you will notice that the C and G note ( I and V ) are common to all three chord types. A simple approach for creating a bass line is to use only these notes, referred to as the "I - V formula." Previous examples of the I - V formula occurred in the following exercises:
The I -V formula produces the following patterns on the fretboard:
This pattern can start on either the 4th, 3rd or 2nd strings and was used in example 47 and 78.
This pattern can start on either the 3rd, 2nd or 1st string and was used in example 11.
* VIII is the I note an octave higher.
Adding the VIII gives the following patterns:
This pattern can start on either the 4th or the 3rd strings.
This pattern can only start on the 3rd string.
The following bass line uses the I - V formula and also introduces the key signature of A major (see "Key Signatures" in Appendix Two ). Be sure to sharpen all F, C and G notes as indicated by this signature.
Use this progression to create your own bass lines.
