Popping Technique (P)
Apart from thumb slapping, the other essential part of the slap bass style is the use of the finger popping technique. This technique is usually done with the index finger (i) but the middle finger (m) is also sometimes used. The technique is performed by putting the fingertip slightly under the string and then pulling it upwards and away, allowing the string to snap back against the fretboard, thus producing the sound. A combination of arm and wrist rotation is used to achieve this technique. Study the following photos and ensure you are using the correct technique. The popping technique is indicated in the notation by the letter P written above or below the note.
Finger ready to pop note
Pull up and rotate wrist
In example 351 all the notes are played with the popping technique.
In example 352 combines the popping technique with hammer-on and pull-off notes.
Example 353 combines the popped notes with thumb slapping in octaves. If a "popped" note is to be played following a slapped note you should place (P) under the string about to be popped at the same time the thumb (T) hits the note to be slapped, e.g., the two action should be done in one movement.
Example 353 alternates between slapping and popping using octaves only.
Transpose the previous example onto different strings and further up the neck.
The next two examples incorporate slapping, popping, hammer-ons and pull-offs.
