James Jamerson passed away in 1983, but through this book, his "walking" bass lines continue to teach new generations how to groove. Whether you buy the physical copy or find it through a library, it is an essential piece of music history.

: Through interviews with Motown legends and Jamerson’s family, the text paints a vivid picture of the Detroit music scene and the struggles of the session musicians who built the "Sound of Young America."

Written by Dr. Licks (Allan Slutsky), this book is more than just a collection of sheet music; it is a historical rescue mission that brought Jamerson’s genius out of the basement of Hitsville U.S.A. and into the hands of modern musicians. Who Was James Jamerson?

: Jamerson loved "chromatic passing tones." Don't just play the roots; look at how he connects the chords.

The Standing in the Shadows of Motown book changed the landscape of music education. It doesn't just show you where to put your fingers; it explains the of the Motown sound.

: The book features note-for-note transcriptions of Jamerson’s most complex lines, many of which were played on his legendary 1962 Fender Precision Bass, "The Funk Machine."

If you manage to get your hands on the material, here is how to approach it:

: This book was a labor of love that finally gave Jamerson’s estate and legacy the recognition they deserved. Purchasing a legal copy ensures that music historians can continue documenting the lives of "unsung" heroes.

(Gladys Knight & The Pips) "You Can't Hurry Love" (The Supremes)

While the internet is full of "free PDF" links, there are several reasons why searching for a pirated copy might not be the best move for a serious student: