Ernie Ball

Ernie Ball is known in the music industry as his creations were revolutionary. Ernie Ball started from the bottom and made his way up. he had a great idea about music being a musician himself, and he started a small business that later grew into an international business that would generate more than $40million USD in turnover a year.

Ernie Ball opened the first store The United States that sold guitars and only guitars. This was criticised highly by music moguls in the late 50s. They told him he should be more versatile and sell other instruments but Ball responded with “I just want to sell guitars”. Little did he know this would be his making.

Ball brought it to Fender’s attention that people were struggling with the 29 gauge third string and was ultimately ignored. This made him release his own set of strings that were lighter to play. These strings are used by many famous musicians today. Some famous names you may have heard of include Billy Joe Armstrong (Green Day), Eric Clapton, Buddy Guy, Brad Paisley, and Paul Gilbert.

The beauty of Ball’s success was that he didn’t come up with a revolutionary invention. he noticed that people were struggling and adapted a string that was already being used to suit players needs.

So next time you’re using some of Ernie Ball’s Strings, bare in mind that he was the one that made it possible to learn and practice on a lighter third string.

Check out the Ernie Ball Bass Strings available on the link provided.

Popular bass lines to get you motivated.

Many people argue what the most famous bass line of all time is.

The answer quite simple is that there isn’t one. There are many that make “top ten bass line” blogs or charts, but ultimately the choice is yours.

One bass line many people agree on is by Queen - “another one bites the dust”. You’ll seldom meet anybody that hasn’t heard of the song. You’re even less likely to come across that doesn’t know the bass line. The brilliance of this bass line is it’s simplicity yet its catchiness.

A faster yet just as catchy Queen bass line is that of “under pressure” ft David Bowie.

If you need it for motivation or just to get the party started, another one bites the dust is a good song to chose from.

If you’re looking for something a little less rock and roll, Ben E King is another classic with another simple bass line yet really catchy. You’re bound to know what song it is, but just in case you don’t it’s “stand by me”. Ben E King is a timeless classic that has been brought forward to all generations.

If you’re looking for something a little more modern, and a little more complex, try exploring the Red Hot Chilli Peppers “give it away now” bass line.   

If you’re an experienced bass player and you already know these tabs yet want to take yourself that extra mile and push your talents, there’s only one bass line for you. “Hysteria” by Muse.

Of course this music may not be to everyone’s taste, but they are indeed timeless classics in the world of bass.

Why not check out our Legacy Bass Strings and see if you’re able to master any of these bass lines.

What guitar strings are right for you?

Choosing the right guitar strings depends on ultimately what you want and what you have. Depending on the type of guitar you play, the end sound you want to achieve and whether or not you prefer to have easier strings to play.

If you have an electric guitar for instance, you will need electric strings. If you have an acoustic guitar you will need acoustic steel or nylon strings. You’ll need to determine if you have an acoustic guitar, which strings it will take as it will either take nylon or steel. If you wish to have a heavier tone, chose a heavier thicker string. If you just want something easy to play, choose a thinner string with a lighter gauge.

Nylon strings have a softer tone and are gentler on the fingers. If you play classical guitar this is a safe bet to choose. If however you want to move into folk guitar, it would be better to move to folk nylon strings.

If you’re after a much sharper and indeed louder tone, go for monel strings. These strings are metal so you will have to ensure your fingers are up for the challenge.

Maybe you might want silk steel strings or bronze strings if you’re brave enough to play without a plectrum. Or for plain ease of playing try flat polished strings.

If you’re feeling dangerous and you want a sharp and harsh tone to your guitar, try some brass strings.

Ultimately the choice comes down to you.

For more information on D'Addario Guitar Strings check out the link provided.

Bass line

Bass lines are the heart and soul of any song. It's the beat you tap your foot to when listening to your favourite song. Yet it's largely under estimated. There are many elements that are essential to the right bass guitar. The number one being their strings.

What type of strings are right for you? Well that depends entirely on the sound you are looking for. Some prefer nylon, some prefer steel. There is a great deal of history behind choosing and indeed creating the perfect bass string. So it should be no surprise that strings have come a long way since they were first invented...

A great brand of Bass strings is D'Addario. Dating back to the 1700's! Originating in Italy then later moving to New York these guys have all the info behind the right bass stings. Having started using sheep's and hog's guts to make their strings they then branched on to nylon and later steel and electric.

You can't go wrong with the choice available from D'Addario, so why not see what available to offer? If you might be interested in D'Addario bass strings click the link provided to see what we have to offer.