Hi all!
Complete beginner here!
I have searched through old posts but cant quite find the answer Im looking for (apologies if it had been discussed already!).
I have just purchased the B2B on line course and am wondering whether it is possible to undertake it using only vintage style thumb plucking with no finger plucking.
I have problems with the finger joints of my right hand but my thumb is OK!
If its not possible then I will have to try conventional finder style to get through it I guess!
Typically the fingers are used, some use a pick however yes you can play a (root) bass with your thumb. Don’t let that discourage you at all, play with your thumb, have a blast and do YOU. Best of luck and go ahead and wear that bass out. If you have a day where the fingers may be cooperating then play that way. Either way you will have a blast learning.
If you’re able to hold it without pain, I’d think using a pick would be easier than trying to play with your thumb. It is possible though.
I agree with the pick point, there are bass lines that require a degree of speed, necessitating the use of either two fingers or a pick.
Either way, have fun!
One limitation of just using your thumb to play is the speed required when the lessons very quickly get to alternating play between your index and middle finger. If you can manage using a pick, then you’d be able keep up by picking on the down and up stroke.
Absolutely!
There are lots of advantages and a few disadvantages using your thumb to plug the strings.
The first advantage is more of a fact than advantage, it’s cool as heck! 
It’s easier to mute and palm mute.
It’s easier to articulate notes and occasionally play the double stops and chords.
It’s more natural to play and sing than the finger picking style.
The obvious disadvantage would be the lack of speed unless you plan to develop the upstroke plugging with your thumb (so unique and effective).
Another would be different technique for ghost notes.
I’m putting about half my practice time with the thumb technique right now, it’s so much fun. Here’s from a few years ago.
Limitations define personal sound and character.
There will be lots of lines you will not be able to play with just your thumb. But there will be ones you can play. Or you might find yourself having to adapt bass lines into a new shape that works better for you. This is 100% legit.
You might also use your fingers, but need to find your own technique to be able to do so in a way that is comfortable for you.
Maybe get yourself some thumb picks to see of that works for you:
That will make some elements of the course much more difficult because they are doing techniques for people without your same limitations. If you run into things that aren’t working for you, I wouldn’t stress over skipping things that don’t work for you. Maybe bookmark and come back later after you’ve figured out YOUR technique better.
I had a lot of trouble transitioning to bass and not using my thumb, especially when going through the course for the first time. But now after 5 months, it’s still not 100% but it feels more natural, especially for muting or plucking with the thumb.
Oh hey, that’s pretty cool! I’ve never seen one of these, but it looks like there’s a lot of options
Thank you for the replies folks! Thats given me a few things to think about. Im scheduled to start lessons next week and I want to start the way that I am going to carry on if possible.
Just a quick update on this - mainly for the benefit of future forum members who may be searching for an answer to the same issue.
I found that once I moved beyond the first couple of modules, using my thumb became inceasingly difficult and I just couldnt keep up!
Before I started down the road of thumb picks etc I sorted out some physiotherapy for my right hand. I’ve also started a new dietary and medication programme for my auto immune and inflammatory issues.
Whilst not taking away the problem entirely my finger mobility and joint pain has improved dramatically!
I restarted the course using the standard finger plucking technique and I am so pleased that I have been able to stick with this. Im currently on module 5 and managing OK.
My recommendation to anyone struggling in the same way is to see what can be done from a medical or therapy perspective before departing from the standard method.
Even if, at the end of the day you end up using a thumb, pick or whatever I am sure that learning Josh’s way is the best foundation to have.
Oh, and just to add - the BTB course is absolutely great. It has exceeded my expectations and I find Josh’s manner and method really effective and confidence building. I look forward to every lesson!
