Seems like cover bands are more likely to play "What I Like About You", a song that reached #49 on the Billboard Hot 100 chart in 1980.  Meanwhile, this song made it to #3 in 1984.  It even topped the Dance/Disco chart and made it to #2 on the Album Rock Tracks chart.

It's a very easy song to play -- great for beginners -- with the same pattern for both the verse and chorus and a fun little pre-chorus section.

Seems like cover bands are more likely to play "What I Like About You", a song

Talking In Your Sleep

This was one of those songs which just started playing on the streaming service after the song I was looking for. Half way between dance and alternative rock, I can see this song working well in the clubs.

This was one of those songs which just started playing on the streaming service after

High Hopes

This song is recorded in Drop C# tuning, which means all published tabs and music notation assumes a 4 string bass with each string tuned down 3 half steps.  At a gig, you usually would have to grab a different instrument or tune down for the song.  Then you have to repeat the process immediately after.

The benefit of a 5-string bass is that you can play those low notes on the B string and remain in standard tuning.  I looked around but thought it would be easier to just tab out my own version, which I've done here.  Looking forward to playing it with my band at rehearsal this week.

This song is recorded in Drop C# tuning, which means all

Aint It Fun

This song made the cut for our cover band, so I've been spending some time trying to learn it.  The tabs for this song really haven't been very good, so I tabbed out a few sections, as I heard them.  

This song made it to #2 in the US Adult Alternative chart in 2011

This song made the cut for our cover band, so I've been spending

Moneygrabber

I stumbled into a video of the lead singer of Londonbeat performing this song last year.  He's 82 years old and he crushed it!  This song is a hidden gem from 1990 -- catchy and upbeat!

I stumbled into a video of the lead singer of Londonbeat performing this song last year.  He's 82 years old

I've Been Thinking About You

Another song that was suggested by our CopyPaste band's singer. The first time I heard it, my first thought was why have I not heard this before? Great rhythm, uptempo, and very catchy chord progression.

Another song that was suggested by our CopyPaste band's singer. The first time I

1901

Our CopyPaste singer suggested this one.  I had never heard it before.  But it checks all the other boxes.  Will be fun to play at some point to see how people respond to it.

Our CopyPaste singer suggested this one.  I had never heard it before

Bulletproof

I can see this song working really well in a night club. High energy, danceable, and familiar. Probably not appropriate for any corporate gigs though, unless HR gives explicit approval.

It's a very easy song to learn with only 4 notes: B, G#, D#, and C#. Just add octave syncopation on the chorus.

I can see this song working really well in a night club. High energy, danceable

Last Friday Night

One of my colleagues at work brought this song to my attention a few days ago, pointing out the prominent bass line. Not one to pass up a challenge, I thought I'd try to learn it.  Aaron, this one is for you :)

I can see this being an "Oh Wow" song at a club. It's still very new but getting attention with 15M views on YT in the first month.

One of my colleagues at work brought this song to my attention

Doctor (Work It Out)

Our band "CopyPaste" is currently working on building out our set list.  This was the second time we ran through the song.

Our band "CopyPaste" is currently working on building out our

Feel It Still (Copy/Paste Band Rehearsal)

<base target="_blank">

**Mark Carlson - SF East Bay (Walnut Creek) Bass Player**

I learned to play bass in elementary school and played in [jazz & pep bands throughout junior high and high school](/gear/1973-fender-jazz/). But after graduation, the bass remained tucked in its case for decades. During COVID lockdowns, my younger daughter expressed an interest in learning to play guitar. I began playing again too, hoping to enjoy the occasional practice sessions with her.  Now, I play (or sub) in a few local cover bands:

- [Retroflection](https://retroflection.band)
- [Copy/Paste](https://copypasteband.com)
- [CrossTown 5](http://www.crosstown5.com/)
- Rottin & Friends

Check out [my schedule of events](/events/).

My bass collection has grown from that original [1973 Fender Jazz to include 4 others](/gear/).  My wife says I'm going through a midlife crisis.  Well, ok.  Yeah.  Maybe.

Preferred music styles:

- Pop (70s/80s/90s through contemporary hit)
- Rock (Pop/Alternative/Modern/Classic)
- Contemporary Christian
- R&B/Soul/Funk
- Cover/Tribute
- Or any other style with fun, interesting bass lines!

Other stuff I'm into:

- [Bikes](https://www.strava.com/athletes/147331) (road & mountain, but prefer mountain)
- BBQ
- Beer (IPA - West Coast & New England Hazy)

Stuff I'm not into:

- Metal or ear-blistering hard rock.
- Singing.  I marvel at those [who are able to play bass and sing simultaneously!](https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=mDEqrOumzi0)
- Unstructured jam sessions.  Prefer to work on songs, sets, and creating exceptional performances.
- Drugs/Smoking.
- Touring - I am [employed full time](https://mc.dev).

Recent Bass Cover Videos

Who Am I?