[quote name='TimR' timestamp='1339416773' post='1688054']
I think you missed what I was saying. I'm saying that making up lines is one thing, but making up lines that don't fit with what others are playing because you don't understand how the bass fits with everything else is another. It's not just bass players that do this. Keys play over bass lines, drums fill over vocal lines, guitars add root bass notes etc.
There are lots of fundamental bass line approaches.
Root.
Root with passing notes to next root.
Third or Fifth note of chord depending on Inversion.
Stay on Bass note while chords ascend or descend and change quality.
Double melody.
Counterpoint.
Play main riff.
+others...
Once you understand the various roles of the bass then you become more free to mix and match and usually you get more understanding for gaining more experience of playing other types of music (ie don't stick to one genre or only play originals)
[/quote]
I get what you are saying, the only part I disagree with a bit is that I think you can find for yourself what works and what doesn't, without necessarily having to learn how others do it. I don't think there's necessarily anything wrong with sticking to one genre and only playing originals, as long as you're able to produce something you (and whoever you're playing with) are happy with.
The approach you've given is a good one, but not necessarily the only one that works.