"All My Loving"
Paul’s bass line in “All My Loving” adopts a melodic walking style, a technique he would further develop in later songs like “Penny Lane” and “Lady Madonna.” Unlike the more straightforward blues and rock bass lines found in earlier Beatles tracks, this line moves with a fluidity that adds melodic interest and harmonic depth.
The bass initially descends down the scale before settling into a groove that centers primarily on the root note and the fifth scale degree, with occasional movement to the third of the chord. This approach grounds the harmony while offering subtle melodic variation.
Rhythmically, the bass plays swung quarter notes, locking tightly with the drum groove. This swung feel aligns with the triplet subdivision in the guitar, creating a cohesive rhythmic foundation.
In the C section, the bass maintains this swung quarter-note rhythmic pattern but with reduced melodic movement, focusing more on reinforcing the groove and supporting the song’s harmonic progression. This shift aligns with the harder-hitting drums and greater emphasis on the backbeat, strengthening the overall drive and energy of the section.