Bass Day

What Is Bass Day?

November 11th is "Bass Day" in Japan, honoring the bass guitar. The date comes from likening the instrument's four strings to the numeral "1," and it was proposed by music producer and bassist Seiji Kameda, established in 2014 through crowdfunded support.

A Holiday Born From the Combined Efforts of Fans and Musicians

Bass Day aims to help more people rediscover the appeal of the bass, an instrument that supports a band's sound while often going unnoticed.

• Origin: the bass guitar's four strings are likened to the numeral "1," and November 11th, with four "1"s lined up, was chosen as the holiday
• How it came to be: officially established through crowdfunded support from fans who responded to Seiji Kameda's call
• Purpose: to spread respect for the bass as an instrument and for the bassists who play it

The Bass as a Band's "Unsung Hero"

Serving as the bridge between rhythm and melody, the bass may lack flashiness, but it's an essential presence supporting a song's foundation. Listening closely for the bassline can reveal a whole new appreciation for a song.

Tips for Marking This Day

• Listen closely for the bassline in a favorite song
• Try playing -- or simply picking up -- a bass guitar
• Check out performance videos from your favorite bassists
• Learn about the bass's role in a band's overall sound

The Rhythm of Four Strings Supports the Foundation of a Song

The bass, often overlooked yet essential to music, became a holiday through the shared passion of fans and musicians. November 11th is a day to listen closely to that low, resonant tone.