@@classicrockforever9152 there's quite a few more than geezer as well . Glen Hughes Roger glover John Paul Jones geddy Lee and don't get me started on fuzion players but that's a different genre
Steve Harris is a musical genius. An incredible player and composer. 100 years from now, people will enjoy Steve Harris and Iron Maiden. Be thankful. You’re witnessing a legend.
Being able to play that stuff makes you a good bassist, but eventually a lot of people can do it. However coming up with stuff like that in the first place makes you a legend.
Exactly! So many YT Musicians out there, making videos of them showing off how they can play the riffs of the masters...but I don't see them uploading any thing of note of original music. That said, I can play the bass line of To Tame A Land almost to perfection. ;-)
Being able to come up with original stuff and have it be catchy. It's more difficult than people think. Look at how many people do crazy stuff on music for TH-cam. It's impressive but would you listen to this as a song itself?
Definitely Steve Harris is an extremely good base player but to be so unique and creative at formulating these songs is just amazing, they all are masters of their craft, that's the ultimate lineup, Steve, Nicko, Dave, Adrian,bruce. This group is extremely refined.
Isolated parts sometimes sounds sloppy but when it mixed with the whole song it is pure magic. When he plays live he sounds like he is from another dimension. He is my favorite bass player ever.
Bass is meant as an ensemble instrument, TBH. Isolated it sounds sloppy in various ways, but when you put it into the context of a whole track, it sounds amazing. Listen to enhanced bass versions, and it all clicks.
Like you were reading my mind, John Entwistle to, even Geddy Lee and Cliff Burton if you isolate their tracks tracks. But it just clicks when it all comes together, if they played as clean as Jazz musicians it probably wouldn't sound as good. Which is a little hard to grasp sometimes for me since I've been trying to play as clean as possible for the last 30 years.
Hell yeah! Wasted Years was the first Maiden song I ever heard when I was a kid. It absolutely blew me away! I still get that same feeling every time I hear it! 🤘
I'm sorry but Harris copied the galloping style of playing of Led Zeppelin bassist John Paul Jones in the song "Achilles Last Stand", the first Iron Maidenish song from where the format for all Iron Maiden songs and Metal bands came from. Galloping style, double and even triple harmonized guitars, coordinated finishes between the drums and the whole band like Metallica's "One" and an epic them lyric and very long song. Jones used an 8-string bass according to some say.
Holy shit, lol, what? He doesn't warm up?! That's just crazy! Thanks for letting us know, man. I love these tidbits about which there's no way we'd otherwise know! Much love from Brazil, bud!
Like poor old Jason Newstead on the …And Justice For All… album, where there was no bass in the mix! My Friend of Misery is a good showcase for his talent.
Let's just say he's the only guy I've heard that plays "lead bass". . but never overpowers the other talent in the band. That's modesty at its finest!!
I'm a guitarist, but I've always considered Steve to be a real force of nature on bass. By far one of my most favourite bassists of all time. And to be able to play fingerstyle like he does!! Well what more can I say?! 😊😊
This. He adds to every song, whether tonally or as a solo for spice. If you don’t add his lick to the Trooper in your head as your listening, you don’t really appreciate what he brings to the table.
As a drummer, it would be a dream to jam with Steve Harris. Great bassist, great composer, founder of THE best metal band IMO. I’ve seen many live performances by many bands over the years and IM is the best live show on the planet.
He's a writer, he actually plays a bit loose but he's also playing to the match the drums and all the other musicians. In the mix he sounds perfect for the song
Steve is the reason I got into metal, and my main influence in metal bass playing. His stamina is incredible, songwriting fantastic, playing amazing, and along with Geddy Lee of Rush, are my big two in the rock world.
Steve Harris is an incredible bass player! Definitely one of the all-time greats! He's been my main influence for years, and I have a ton of respect for him, not just as a musician, but from everything I've heard, he is a good guy who treats people with respect. In fact, the same rings true with all the guys in Maiden. Down to earth, nice guys.
I saw Maiden 3 times in the 80's and I never saw any bass player with more energy than Steve! This guy runs a marathon during every concert running across the stage all night, hopping the stage monitors and shouting the lyrics loud enough to hear without a microphone! He's a monster!
I remember listening to Piece of Mind as a kid with my headphones on and hearing the clacking and clicking of the bass strings which provided an extra percussive sound and just loving it! That's when I learned the value of playing with fingers as opposed to a plectrum. Well, that and Steve's playing in general.
Please! For shows they pre record at stadiums n such!...everyone knows about it..they all DO it too. The few like"rush" that wont are "Royalty"...most are MADE to FAKE it! Trust me i know..go see ME for something REAL!😆
@@TheAsmodha Absolutely i DO. U tube HIDES my stuff n WONT pay me a dime cuz i really play LIVE..better then ANY or them!(on their owm crap!) but you guys all LOVE them for trickin ya! Railen ya! Rippin ya off...none of ya will fight for ME!..its a little more then a "cover" when you do it way better then the Creators!..(cough). Like i do. My proof is in the pudding! I dare ya to go n SEE! I do it fer free!
Not just a bass player, he is not the lead singer, but when he is performing on stage, he is also singing along on every song. Stuff made of legends. 😎
Being a good musician is about creating the right tune that goes with the overall theme of the song, and not about unnecessarily playing over complicated stuff only to show off skills. He doesn’t need to actually :) Steve is a legend!
Harris is the man , something people don’t take into account with Steve is when he started out and formed Maiden there really wasn’t many bassist playing his style. He kinda helped formulate this metal bass . Steve’s influence is more than just his music , he helped create a path for many bassist of today . I say that puts him at legend status that most will never reach. Up the irons Steve .
He's not a super technical player in terms of techniques, but his lines really are really well written and lift the over all dynamic of the music amazingly. Which gives strength to the saying 'you don't have to be the best musician to write the best music'.
Technique is overrated. Chuck Schuldiner is considered a guitarist without technique, but listening to him play the guitar is an extraordinary astral journey, because even without being considered a technician (that is, someone who learned at a music school or with a teacher), his music was incredibly complex and emotional, not everyone plays at their level.
Iconic. He was definitely one of the technical players back in the day, and is one of those bass players that paved the way for others to improve their technique. Musicianship is a lot more than just technique anyhow - feel, pocket, creativity, tone, note choice, the list is endless. Steve Harris has the lot.
He's the reason I started playing 30 years ago. He doesn't always sound good unless you hear him with the drums. He hangs off the back of the beat so much, to the casual listener it can sound messy. But pair it with the drums and he is absolutely incredible.
I love to play his bass lines! They are so freaking fun! To replicate his sound you have to treat your bass more like a percussion instrument. For Trooper you have to feel deeply relaxed and hammer rather than pluck the notes!🎸
Hi I just wanted to thank you again for being so supportive and following me on my journey. I love inspiring and encouraging others. People like you help me to keep showing up! Hope you are having an amazing day!!
It's funny how when album tracks are isolated it can sound worse or sloppy than with the rest of the band. But in my opinion the true test of any player is can they sound good live. And Steve always does! Much respect!
Even James Jamason and Jaco Pastorious sound a bit sloppy when isolated. They are cutting through others in the mix so it will be different then if it was a solo. Also studio is oftern first time the song is played so much more refined and rehersed after 30+ years of playing it.
@@flatcapfiddle yeah. In a former life I was in a band that made some albums bla bla bla... So I know from first hand experience how shocking it can be to hear how not great something can sound when it's isolated (I was a bass player) and then how great it can sound with the rest of the band.
In my younger years, in the front row as close as I could get - one of the BEST I have ever seen. Just out of this world - so glad I was able to see them live when I was just a kid. Now as an Old Man, I'll see them this September! woot!!!
The eye opener for me when I started really listening to his baselines is how he lets the pickups and gain bring the power. He doesn't have to get aggressive with his playing.
I have been a Maiden fan since Piece of Mind. I have also been playing bass for about that time. As far as Steve Harris is concerned, he isn't that technically proficient but it isn't about proficiency. Its about musicality and creativity. One of the greatest bass players in the world, Victor Wooten, once said that he would be willing to trade half his talent to be able to make more mainstream music that more people like. Harris inspired me to play bass and there is nobody like him. The guy is a total monster!!
@@glickmpb you might label yourself a musician but sadly you are not a real musician... Real musicians know that there is no such thing as greatest or not the greatest..... There is only honest or not honest about what flows through.... Technical stuff means absolutely nothing when it comes to being honest with yourself
@@davidmerlin6787 ROFL! I am also a college graduate and the babble you spew is for children. You may want to go back to school to learn how to properly articulate.
I remember watching the Run to the Hills video and the camera pans to Steve and his fingers are moving so fast I was like holy crap I can’t believe my eyes he is great
He might not be doing the most complicated of riffs. But his style, technique and speed change the metal world forever. He is undeniably one of the best bass players of all time because of his influence on metal. I still don't know how he plays as fast as he does with just 2 fingers
Saw Iron Maiden in concert in the mid 80's. Steve Harris's fingers were a blur of out of this world bass playing all night long. What a monster on bass!!!
Without Steve, I'd probably not be a bass player myself. All my playing comes from learning all the maiden albums up to X Factor. Pretty much, there are other influences too, of course.
For me too he has been (and still is) one of my main influences since when I have started (august 86). And I too have learned probably all of their songs from the 80s, and others too. Fun to play them, for sure! 😄 Of course, I have at least other two that I call my favorite bassists (Geddy and Geezer) and many others that I like. But Steve's influence is probably the strongest, to the point that even when I play other bands' songs (on my channel or in other situations), if I use fingerstyle then I tend to play in Steve's way... 😆Not always intentional, but most of the times it is spontaneus. A strong influence, really! Greetings from Italy!
What would be cool would to hear the drums aswell, lower in a mix, that would be a true testament to whether he's sloppy or not. There's a lot more melody going on there than I thought, and the speed and the tone while just using his fingers is impressive.
I think he is a creative and unique bass player with articulation that definitely can be rough around the edges at times. I also think he is a MASTERFUL composer and a rare and incredible talent in that regard.
The thing is, he can’t really show off in their songs. They aren’t structured that way. Having two lead guitars and a drumming god means the job of the bass is to hold it all together.
Steve is best bassist ever and musical genius and composer with wonderful phantasy ! I am Iron Maiden fan since my 14een when I heard Iron Maiden first time at my older friend. It was fantastic Live After Death ! Up The Irons !
Isolated, he’s actually a little sloppy, but it feels great in the song, and that is by far the most important thing. If you listen to Geddy Lee isolated, Geddy is much more precise, but again, at the end of the day, it’s the total output that matters. Both bassists and bands are amazing in their own way.
@@paoloalcantara2465 I think it is definitely part of it. Rick Beato did a wonderful video were he quantized John Bonham’s drums and all the soul of his performance was lost. Perfection is not necessarily better in music. It often works against art.
Steve Harris is a monster and has been untouchable among rock /meta bassists for close to 50 yrs. He's still going in his late 60's still killing those triplets w finger picking!!!!!!
Hi I just wanted to thank you again for being so supportive and following me on my journey. I love inspiring and encouraging others. People like you help me to keep showing up! Hope you are having an amazing day!!
There are probably more skilled bassists around from a technical point. But it's everything combined, he plays it, writes it, arranges it and his technique is instantly recognizable. Legendary man, legendary band. The best band of all time.
Steve Harris is the reason I picked up a bass in the first place. I wouldn't say I'm very good (I'm primarily a singer) but I love bass and play simple stuff okay. Steve is a legend.
Steve got me started playing bass many years ago. He is not the most technically proficient, but he is amazing in both his articulation and phrasing. And an AMAZING songwriter. UP THE IRONS!
Steve's parts are great to learn as a bassist, as they really drive the songs. Great aerobic work-outs for your fingers too, and I use Steve's bass parts as warm-ups for gigs (although I tend to play at a slower tempo to start with).
I saw Iron Maiden live once due to Coheed opening for them (I was a HUGE Coheed fan) and I was just mesmerized by this guy with a bass just running all around, hopping high, getting some major air and absolutely being within his element. I questioned if he did cocaine before the show because his energy level was OVER 9000. Indeed Steve Harris is that good and that is just seeing Iron Maiden once.
STEVE is just GOOD, because he is unique and wrote tonns of great songs! Of course he is fast, but thats not the main part :) Its always serves the song
It's the notes he picks that make him a cut above. He's just got a really musical brain. I've never heard another bass player that injects as much personality into the music whilst being completely appropriate for the song. Steve rules!
Hesitant to share this comment, but… …I feel like the LUCKIEST dude in the world to be the bassist in a Iron Maiden tribute band. My playing improved since my time in this band (despite having to almost re-learn how to play!), and I’m *always* excited for the next gig because I get a chance to play music from one of the bassists and bands that had inspired me to play in the first place. Steve is, indeed, a living legend. Up the irons!!!
All I can say is that I wanted to be a bass player while I was watching Maiden live during their "X-Factour". The amazing thing about his style is the absence of effects on his bass.
I love Steve Harris' range on his basslines, as it often acts as a third melody as well as hitting the root notes. There was a video on TH-cam that played the Trooper without bass, and it honestly sounded hollow and not that good. The bass is the glue for the band, but Steve Harris takes it even further!
I've played the majority of these tunes on bass in the various bands I've been in over the years. They are no joke. Especially not using a pick. Steve is a legend.
Steve Harris is beyond amazing. He actually is Maiden's director - he sets the tempi, controls transitions, determines chord and inversion - all in perfect lockstep with Nicko McBrain. These two are the foundation upon which, Maiden songs are constructed.
@@michaellee6489 Exactly! And Nicko is the perfect partner for Steve. Listen to earlier Maiden: Clive Burr is. *very very good* but McBrain's drumming is *perfect* to lock in with Harris' bass.
Hi I just wanted to thank you again for being so supportive and following me on my journey. I love inspiring and encouraging others. People like you help me to keep showing up! Hope you are having an amazing day!!
Steve Harris is a genius and the point is not about how his bass lines sound when heard apart from the other instruments but how they fill and give body to the music.
Steve is one of the most legendary bassists of all time! Sure, there are plenty of more technical player but his style and ferocity is second to none, not to mention he is the primary writer for Maiden's songs. Just cover a few of his songs on bass and tell me your hands aren't hurting! Go on!
To understand the greatness of Steve Harris you don't need to show many songs... You just put "To Tame a Land" on and everything will be clear to everyone. ❤️
Yea,Steve Harris, is a great bassist. One of the most influential, great song writer, and really knows how to be a good solid foundation for the band but knows when to take the spotlight. 2 thumbs up.
Ya 'Arry is the reason I picked up bass way back . Prisoner was the first thing I "learned" , ;) still perfecting A LOT of Maidens bass lines - over 30 years later . He is the master of how music should be produced too - he has never let the the industry "control" Maiden . UP THE IRONS !!! SEP 3rd !!!
Steve is a legend and a beast on bass. That said, hearing the isolated tracks I feel a bit better about my own slightly sloppy 3 and 4 finger gallops. 🤣
*YES! Steve Harris is actually an amazing bass player! Fight me if you can*
Wait, people argue that he isn't?
No can defence.
@@stefanssmellsvictory105 he's not
Yes he's good, but only after Geezer Buttler😄
@@classicrockforever9152 there's quite a few more than geezer as well . Glen Hughes Roger glover John Paul Jones geddy Lee and don't get me started on fuzion players but that's a different genre
Steve Harris is a musical genius. An incredible player and composer. 100 years from now, people will enjoy Steve Harris and Iron Maiden. Be thankful. You’re witnessing a legend.
The brains behind the band as well!
Right on man. Metal Rules
Can't Say Better Than That
I only realized the other day... They're almost halfway there. 2025 and Iron Maiden will be 50 years old :D
Fix this, pls !! ImI
Being able to play that stuff makes you a good bassist, but eventually a lot of people can do it. However coming up with stuff like that in the first place makes you a legend.
Exactly! So many YT Musicians out there, making videos of them showing off how they can play the riffs of the masters...but I don't see them uploading any thing of note of original music. That said, I can play the bass line of To Tame A Land almost to perfection. ;-)
Always said that mate aye you can play but did ye write IT. BIG F'KIN DIFFERENCE.
Yeah man.
Being able to come up with original stuff and have it be catchy. It's more difficult than people think.
Look at how many people do crazy stuff on music for TH-cam. It's impressive but would you listen to this as a song itself?
Definitely Steve Harris is an extremely good base player but to be so unique and creative at formulating these songs is just amazing, they all are masters of their craft, that's the ultimate lineup, Steve, Nicko, Dave, Adrian,bruce. This group is extremely refined.
Isolated parts sometimes sounds sloppy but when it mixed with the whole song it is pure magic. When he plays live he sounds like he is from another dimension. He is my favorite bass player ever.
They all sound sloppy. It's also awesome. Kinda odd that it works so well
Dang, I almost felt ashamed writing that because I thought I was the only one to notice therefore imagining it...
Bass is meant as an ensemble instrument, TBH. Isolated it sounds sloppy in various ways, but when you put it into the context of a whole track, it sounds amazing. Listen to enhanced bass versions, and it all clicks.
They are most of the time sloppy. The CS guitar guy explained it well.
Like you were reading my mind, John Entwistle to, even Geddy Lee and Cliff Burton if you isolate their tracks tracks. But it just clicks when it all comes together, if they played as clean as Jazz musicians it probably wouldn't sound as good. Which is a little hard to grasp sometimes for me since I've been trying to play as clean as possible for the last 30 years.
God damn, every time I hear these songs it’s like the 1st time when I was a kid. How can you not get excited??? Upping the Irons for over 30 years!
same dude
Same
Hell yeah man!!
Hell yeah! Wasted Years was the first Maiden song I ever heard when I was a kid. It absolutely blew me away! I still get that same feeling every time I hear it! 🤘
must you use the Lord's name in vain to make your point?
That amazing “galloping horse” bass lines. Timeless!!
Yes! That's exactly what comes to mind when I hear him play.
@@new_frontiersman9064 Same, I've always described his bass playing as galloping.
I'm sorry but Harris copied the galloping style of playing of Led Zeppelin bassist John Paul Jones in the song "Achilles Last Stand", the first Iron Maidenish song from where the format for all Iron Maiden songs and Metal bands came from. Galloping style, double and even triple harmonized guitars, coordinated finishes between the drums and the whole band like Metallica's "One" and an epic them lyric and very long song. Jones used an 8-string bass according to some say.
I toured with Mr Harris a few years back the guy doesn't even warm up backstage an absolute legend with nothing but 110% love for the fans ❤
That’s awesome
Checked out your band . Very cool!
Holy shit, lol, what? He doesn't warm up?! That's just crazy! Thanks for letting us know, man. I love these tidbits about which there's no way we'd otherwise know! Much love from Brazil, bud!
That's cuz he warmed up his right hand as a child and it's still 🔥
@@HaggenKennedy what he said
He doesn't hide his bass playing in music like others. You can actually hear him play.
He’s the owner of the band, of course his bass will be loud. 🤘🏻
Like poor old Jason Newstead on the …And Justice For All… album, where there was no bass in the mix! My Friend of Misery is a good showcase for his talent.
How it should be 😁
@@edwardhumphries5566 other metal bands ofc. theres a lot of metal bands with bass buried in the mix that u cant rlly hear the tone of the bass.
In the end it's about the mix.
Let's just say he's the only guy I've heard that plays "lead bass". . but never overpowers the other talent in the band.
That's modesty at its finest!!
Well, not really. I would have to give props to Les Claypool for that too.
Billy Sheehan
Geddy Lee?
Cliff Burton?
Joey Di Maio as well
He doesn’t have to be good, he’s Steve Harris, founder of one of the greatest metal bands ever!
Thankfully, he _is_ pretty good, too.
But he is really damn good.
True. Is Lars good ? No
@@bdeithrick that is true, Lars is NOT good.
THE greatest
I'm a guitarist, but I've always considered Steve to be a real force of nature on bass. By far one of my most favourite bassists of all time. And to be able to play fingerstyle like he does!! Well what more can I say?! 😊😊
This. He adds to every song, whether tonally or as a solo for spice. If you don’t add his lick to the Trooper in your head as your listening, you don’t really appreciate what he brings to the table.
@@regularmike the bass intro to TNOTB makes the song. And Phantom of the Opera. and ... endless
As a drummer, it would be a dream to jam with Steve Harris. Great bassist, great composer, founder of THE best metal band IMO. I’ve seen many live performances by many bands over the years and IM is the best live show on the planet.
Bassed fingers \m/
Not going to be like others here saying HI FRRAND and stuff, but what is the future of Andriy Vasylenko? Metalligeek is only for Metallica hence…
I would love to see a your video/podcast episode about Maiden
@@jagannathaniyengar4369 he say hi frrrrantyd. him self. so wtf
Ну тебе виднее Андрiю!
He's a writer, he actually plays a bit loose but he's also playing to the match the drums and all the other musicians. In the mix he sounds perfect for the song
He is playing well to the drumms.
Well said. All recorded with the drums playing along. Some sloppiness is inevitable.
@@SKarthikeyan75 agreed
@@SKarthikeyan75 exactly man
What's extra cool is that he's doing it on a good ol' Fender Precision Bass. Nothing over complicated or heavily modified.
Just a great, simple, bass.
With flatwound strings, no less!!
Awsome
My favourite metal bass player. He's never been perfect but he knows how to fill spaces that most bassists don't bother doing.
I’d say he’s perfect lmao
Steve is the reason I got into metal, and my main influence in metal bass playing. His stamina is incredible, songwriting fantastic, playing amazing, and along with Geddy Lee of Rush, are my big two in the rock world.
I've often wondered what a solo bass album from Bomber and Geddy would sound like.
Steve Harris is an incredible bass player! Definitely one of the all-time greats! He's been my main influence for years, and I have a ton of respect for him, not just as a musician, but from everything I've heard, he is a good guy who treats people with respect. In fact, the same rings true with all the guys in Maiden. Down to earth, nice guys.
Love the opening bass riff to The Clairvoyant.
And i love the bass solo on "Only the good die young".
@@vitorcouto3322 that might be the best part of the whole seventh son album....I absolutely love that part of the song
Not forgetting the bass slide at the end of the bridge in Phantom of the Opera.
It will blow your mind when you notice it's The Number of the Beast riff played backwards. He's a genius.
I saw Maiden 3 times in the 80's and I never saw any bass player with more energy than Steve! This guy runs a marathon during every concert running across the stage all night, hopping the stage monitors and shouting the lyrics loud enough to hear without a microphone! He's a monster!
I remember listening to Piece of Mind as a kid with my headphones on and hearing the clacking and clicking of the bass strings which provided an extra percussive sound and just loving it!
That's when I learned the value of playing with fingers as opposed to a plectrum. Well, that and Steve's playing in general.
He is not just a Bass player, but he wrote some of Maidens biggest compositions!!!!
Some? Most!!
@@timwheeler8523 clearly !
Hallowed be thy name, the trooper, caught somewhere in time, infinite dreams, blood brothers, for the greater good of god...
So many.
Studio versions sound great but its even better live. Steve Harris is a god 🤘🏻😈
Please! For shows they pre record at stadiums n such!...everyone knows about it..they all DO it too. The few like"rush" that wont are "Royalty"...most are MADE to FAKE it! Trust me i know..go see ME for something REAL!😆
@@leeconnelly6364 Usually I'd call that a low quality bait... But internet nowdays make me think...
Did you ACTUALLY mean it?
@@TheAsmodha Absolutely i DO. U tube HIDES my stuff n WONT pay me a dime cuz i really play LIVE..better then ANY or them!(on their owm crap!) but you guys all LOVE them for trickin ya! Railen ya! Rippin ya off...none of ya will fight for ME!..its a little more then a "cover" when you do it way better then the Creators!..(cough). Like i do. My proof is in the pudding! I dare ya to go n SEE! I do it fer free!
Not just a bass player, he is not the lead singer, but when he is performing on stage, he is also singing along on every song. Stuff made of legends. 😎
Being a good musician is about creating the right tune that goes with the overall theme of the song, and not about unnecessarily playing over complicated stuff only to show off skills. He doesn’t need to actually :) Steve is a legend!
Absolutely true. People keep thinking complex is better or speed. Its about the song,.
Thank you for writing exactly what I was thinking. Keep the Faith, Up the Irons!
Harris is the man , something people don’t take into account with Steve is when he started out and formed Maiden there really wasn’t many bassist playing his style. He kinda helped formulate this metal bass . Steve’s influence is more than just his music , he helped create a path for many bassist of today . I say that puts him at legend status that most will never reach. Up the irons Steve .
He truly is great. Inventive. Plays fast. Plays powerful. Puts on a great show live. One of my favorites of all time
I love how he allows just the right amount of string slap to come thru the mix.
My fingers are tired just listening to Steve
And he s doing that with 2 fingers
Steve Harris is a living Legend.
He tells storys with his Bass.
A Genius.🤘🤘🤘
He's not a super technical player in terms of techniques, but his lines really are really well written and lift the over all dynamic of the music amazingly. Which gives strength to the saying 'you don't have to be the best musician to write the best music'.
Technique is overrated. Chuck Schuldiner is considered a guitarist without technique, but listening to him play the guitar is an extraordinary astral journey, because even without being considered a technician (that is, someone who learned at a music school or with a teacher), his music was incredibly complex and emotional, not everyone plays at their level.
Iconic. He was definitely one of the technical players back in the day, and is one of those bass players that paved the way for others to improve their technique. Musicianship is a lot more than just technique anyhow - feel, pocket, creativity, tone, note choice, the list is endless. Steve Harris has the lot.
I was fortunate to have met and chatted to Steve… not only is he an amazing bassist, he a really nice guy too.
When I saw them live in 1985 on Powerslave, my jaw stayed on the ground
He's the reason I started playing 30 years ago. He doesn't always sound good unless you hear him with the drums. He hangs off the back of the beat so much, to the casual listener it can sound messy. But pair it with the drums and he is absolutely incredible.
Bang on, mate!! 🤘😎🤘
Iron Maiden’s music always gets me going through the day. Makes you want to charge through and conquer it.
I love to play his bass lines! They are so freaking fun! To replicate his sound you have to treat your bass more like a percussion instrument. For Trooper you have to feel deeply relaxed and hammer rather than pluck the notes!🎸
Hi I just wanted to thank you again for being so supportive and following me on my journey. I love inspiring and encouraging others. People like you help me to keep showing up! Hope you are having an amazing day!!
You missed a pretty obvious one, the clairvoyant introduction Is prime Harris, and nice to hear him play a solo for once.
and the "killer's" introduction.
He and ellefson are bass gods
His speed and rhythmic bass is what suited IM sound and style
ellefson recently went solo
@@ba55bar he used to be endorsed by Jackson but now it's Jacksoff.
@@ba55bar possibly he's seen too much , webcam 18 he knows too much
@@M2Mil7er Boo.
It's funny how when album tracks are isolated it can sound worse or sloppy than with the rest of the band. But in my opinion the true test of any player is can they sound good live. And Steve always does! Much respect!
Same thought I had I was like man it's sloppy. But that's his style but you do need a good forearm for this.
Even James Jamason and Jaco Pastorious sound a bit sloppy when isolated. They are cutting through others in the mix so it will be different then if it was a solo. Also studio is oftern first time the song is played so much more refined and rehersed after 30+ years of playing it.
@@flatcapfiddle yeah. In a former life I was in a band that made some albums bla bla bla... So I know from first hand experience how shocking it can be to hear how not great something can sound when it's isolated (I was a bass player) and then how great it can sound with the rest of the band.
In my younger years, in the front row as close as I could get - one of the BEST I have ever seen. Just out of this world - so glad I was able to see them live when I was just a kid. Now as an Old Man, I'll see them this September! woot!!!
The eye opener for me when I started really listening to his baselines is how he lets the pickups and gain bring the power. He doesn't have to get aggressive with his playing.
The Trooper was the first bass line I ever learned. Ever since then I've been in love with the instrument.
I have been a Maiden fan since Piece of Mind. I have also been playing bass for about that time. As far as Steve Harris is concerned, he isn't that technically proficient but it isn't about proficiency. Its about musicality and creativity. One of the greatest bass players in the world, Victor Wooten, once said that he would be willing to trade half his talent to be able to make more mainstream music that more people like.
Harris inspired me to play bass and there is nobody like him. The guy is a total monster!!
Totally agree! Steve’s creative talent is the driving force of Maiden. It was and always will be!
That's the stupidest thing I have ever heard
@@davidmerlin6787 LOL! Too bad you arent a musician. You would understand.
@@glickmpb you might label yourself a musician but sadly you are not a real musician... Real musicians know that there is no such thing as greatest or not the greatest..... There is only honest or not honest about what flows through.... Technical stuff means absolutely nothing when it comes to being honest with yourself
@@davidmerlin6787 ROFL! I am also a college graduate and the babble you spew is for children. You may want to go back to school to learn how to properly articulate.
Solid review. No bs, actual bass parts, some details at the end that show that you know what you are talking about. 10/10
Of course he can play... He's been good at it since he founded maiden 😎
I remember watching the Run to the Hills video and the camera pans to Steve and his fingers are moving so fast I was like holy crap I can’t believe my eyes he is great
He might not be doing the most complicated of riffs. But his style, technique and speed change the metal world forever. He is undeniably one of the best bass players of all time because of his influence on metal. I still don't know how he plays as fast as he does with just 2 fingers
Saw Iron Maiden in concert in the mid 80's. Steve Harris's fingers were a blur of out of this world bass playing all night long. What a monster on bass!!!
Without Steve, I'd probably not be a bass player myself. All my playing comes from learning all the maiden albums up to X Factor. Pretty much, there are other influences too, of course.
For me too he has been (and still is) one of my main influences since when I have started (august 86). And I too have learned probably all of their songs from the 80s, and others too. Fun to play them, for sure! 😄
Of course, I have at least other two that I call my favorite bassists (Geddy and Geezer) and many others that I like. But Steve's influence is probably the strongest, to the point that even when I play other bands' songs (on my channel or in other situations), if I use fingerstyle then I tend to play in Steve's way... 😆Not always intentional, but most of the times it is spontaneus. A strong influence, really!
Greetings from Italy!
woohooo! i've been learning these basslines by ear, and apparently I've been playing them correctly! thanks for uploading!
Why would anyone ever question his playing? It's Steve Harris of Iron Maiden for Gods sake, he changed the history of music.... ❤️
To know hes doing it with his fingers that fast is quite stunning
What Steve Harris does with his bass is beyond amazing! Truly inspiring! Man, what else can I say? Steve Harris ROCKS and THAT'S FOR SURE! 🎸🎸🎸
He's the main reason I asked me mom to buy me a bass guitar when I was like 12 years old. That galloping sounding bass is great
What would be cool would to hear the drums aswell, lower in a mix, that would be a true testament to whether he's sloppy or not. There's a lot more melody going on there than I thought, and the speed and the tone while just using his fingers is impressive.
I think he is a creative and unique bass player with articulation that definitely can be rough around the edges at times. I also think he is a MASTERFUL composer and a rare and incredible talent in that regard.
The thing is, he can’t really show off in their songs. They aren’t structured that way. Having two lead guitars and a drumming god means the job of the bass is to hold it all together.
3 lead guitars...
Well, now their are 3 guitars.
3 besides Steve on bass.
What don't you like?
And why would he WANT to show off?? Not everyone in the world suffers form the "sport musician" mentality.
@@donaldmurphy3148 Your spelling of “there?”
Steve is best bassist ever and musical genius and composer with wonderful phantasy ! I am Iron Maiden fan since my 14een when I heard Iron Maiden first time at my older friend. It was fantastic Live After Death ! Up The Irons !
Isolated, he’s actually a little sloppy, but it feels great in the song, and that is by far the most important thing. If you listen to Geddy Lee isolated, Geddy is much more precise, but again, at the end of the day, it’s the total output that matters. Both bassists and bands are amazing in their own way.
The "sloppy" playing is what gives the Iron Maiden bass that distinctive sound.
Sometimes I feel that the perceived “sloppiness” is what gives a human feel and a soul to the music.
@@paoloalcantara2465 I think it is definitely part of it. Rick Beato did a wonderful video were he quantized John Bonham’s drums and all the soul of his performance was lost. Perfection is not necessarily better in music. It often works against art.
@@GustavoLovato Rick Beato is a must see regarding music production. Harris is "sloppy" because he's locking in with Nicko who isn't a metronome.
Steve Harris is a monster and has been untouchable among rock /meta bassists for close to 50 yrs. He's still going in his late 60's still killing those triplets w finger picking!!!!!!
Not only is he one of the greatest bass players ever, but he's also one of the most incredible lyricists and all round good bloke.
I was expecting to see "The Clairvoyant". The intro is so iconic for me and it's actually one of my fave songs of them
Hi I just wanted to thank you again for being so supportive and following me on my journey. I love inspiring and encouraging others. People like you help me to keep showing up! Hope you are having an amazing day!!
There are probably more skilled bassists around from a technical point. But it's everything combined, he plays it, writes it, arranges it and his technique is instantly recognizable.
Legendary man, legendary band. The best band of all time.
Steve Harris is the reason I picked up a bass in the first place. I wouldn't say I'm very good (I'm primarily a singer) but I love bass and play simple stuff okay. Steve is a legend.
1:11 I didn't realize he was playing THAT many notes in that part. A lot of subtleties often get lost in final mixes.
Exactly! I actually am making an Ian Hill episode right now, and I’m blown away by some of his parts
@@MetalPilgrim Steve Harris and Ian Hill, my two favorite metal bass players. Can't wait for your video on Ian!
One bass player who's certainly not buried in the mix is Geddy Lee.
That galloping bass makes Iron Maiden songs instantly recognizable
Steve got me started playing bass many years ago. He is not the most technically proficient, but he is amazing in both his articulation and phrasing. And an AMAZING songwriter. UP THE IRONS!
Steve's parts are great to learn as a bassist, as they really drive the songs. Great aerobic work-outs for your fingers too, and I use Steve's bass parts as warm-ups for gigs (although I tend to play at a slower tempo to start with).
I saw Iron Maiden live once due to Coheed opening for them (I was a HUGE Coheed fan) and I was just mesmerized by this guy with a bass just running all around, hopping high, getting some major air and absolutely being within his element. I questioned if he did cocaine before the show because his energy level was OVER 9000.
Indeed Steve Harris is that good and that is just seeing Iron Maiden once.
STEVE is just GOOD, because he is unique and wrote tonns of great songs! Of course he is fast, but thats not the main part :) Its always serves the song
It's the notes he picks that make him a cut above. He's just got a really musical brain. I've never heard another bass player that injects as much personality into the music whilst being completely appropriate for the song. Steve rules!
Not only for his playing....but for the legend he build with maiden ! Big, Big, very big man !!
Hesitant to share this comment, but…
…I feel like the LUCKIEST dude in the world to be the bassist in a Iron Maiden tribute band. My playing improved since my time in this band (despite having to almost re-learn how to play!), and I’m *always* excited for the next gig because I get a chance to play music from one of the bassists and bands that had inspired me to play in the first place.
Steve is, indeed, a living legend.
Up the irons!!!
Good for you man, I played in a uk Maiden tribute act too. Such tuneful and fun songs to play..difficulty is choosing a setlst and what gets left out!
@@CROSSofIRON-uk Oh, absolutely! While it’s definitely NOT a bad problem to have, it’s still a struggle! ;D Cheers, and up the the irons!!! :)
All I can say is that I wanted to be a bass player while I was watching Maiden live during their "X-Factour". The amazing thing about his style is the absence of effects on his bass.
Very good job making this video with the bass tracks, amazing and ... He's the best for me!! 🤘🏽🤘🏽🤘🏽🤘🏽 WoW!
I love Steve Harris' range on his basslines, as it often acts as a third melody as well as hitting the root notes.
There was a video on TH-cam that played the Trooper without bass, and it honestly sounded hollow and not that good.
The bass is the glue for the band, but Steve Harris takes it even further!
I've played the majority of these tunes on bass in the various bands I've been in over the years. They are no joke. Especially not using a pick. Steve is a legend.
Steve Harris is beyond amazing. He actually is Maiden's director - he sets the tempi, controls transitions, determines chord and inversion - all in perfect lockstep with Nicko McBrain. These two are the foundation upon which, Maiden songs are constructed.
THANK YOU for the props to Nicko Mc.Brain together they conduct the magic that is Iron Maiden!!!!
@@michaellee6489 Exactly! And Nicko is the perfect partner for Steve. Listen to earlier Maiden: Clive Burr is. *very very good* but McBrain's drumming is *perfect* to lock in with Harris' bass.
@@gregorytaylor3146 just like Metallica needs Lars its just so natural it just cant be any other way...Rock On Brother!
As a basement rocker in the mid 80’s, Steve is one of my favorites. Trooper is a monster to play with that galloping baseline
Hi I just wanted to thank you again for being so supportive and following me on my journey. I love inspiring and encouraging others. People like you help me to keep showing up! Hope you are having an amazing day!!
I followed metal since 75, seen Steve front row on Number of the Beast (several times) and he's actually even better than his legend
Steve Harris is a genius and the point is not about how his bass lines sound when heard apart from the other instruments but how they fill and give body to the music.
Steve is one of the most legendary bassists of all time! Sure, there are plenty of more technical player but his style and ferocity is second to none, not to mention he is the primary writer for Maiden's songs. Just cover a few of his songs on bass and tell me your hands aren't hurting! Go on!
Great video of Steve.
Instant subscriber buddy
Keep it METAL 🤘🤘
Thanks!🤘
To understand the greatness of Steve Harris you don't need to show many songs... You just put "To Tame a Land" on and everything will be clear to everyone. ❤️
@Joe M absolutely the most. That song is just amazing.
Dune is my favorite saga.
To Tame A Land is my favorite Maiden song.
Great idea to compile those isolated tracks ! What a bass player !
Not only a tremendous bass player but also a great lyricist!
Yea,Steve Harris, is a great bassist. One of the most influential, great song writer, and really knows how to be a good solid foundation for the band but knows when to take the spotlight. 2 thumbs up.
Steve is an absolute beast on bass.
Phantom of the Opera has some harder parts that alone would have answered that question for good. Same with Killers.
Saw them live a few years back and he is still a monster \m/
Personally i suggest the bass part in 2 minutes to midnight from the guitar solo to the end
Amazing!!!!
Steve Harris is the reason I took up bass. What a legend
Steves an absolute BEAST!!!!
He is the reason I got into bass playing. So energetic, simple, every note to the punch. Just brilliant.
It's more difficult to play their songs with a pick. And Steve Harris is also the songwriter of Maiden wich most people forget.
My understanding is that pretty much all members of the band write the songs. There is no main writer?
He is one of the songwriters of Maiden. Adrian writes a lot of the music as well as Janick
They all write, but Steve writes the most. Dave and Nicko the least.
Ya 'Arry is the reason I picked up bass way back . Prisoner was the first thing I "learned" , ;) still perfecting A LOT of Maidens bass lines - over 30 years later . He is the master of how music should be produced too - he has never let the the industry "control" Maiden . UP THE IRONS !!! SEP 3rd !!!
Steve is the God of Metal Bass. Period.
Steve is an absolute genius on many musical levels. A legend.
Steve is a legend and a beast on bass. That said, hearing the isolated tracks I feel a bit better about my own slightly sloppy 3 and 4 finger gallops. 🤣
An incredible bass player. And a top bloke. His passion is as visceral and infectious as it has ever been.
Steve is one of the best bass players all his lines are great.. up the irons