James Taylor – ‘How Sweet It Is (To Be Loved By You)’

This song was recorded in 1975 by James Taylor. A cover of the Marvin Gaye original, Taylor’s version appears on his album Gorilla and quickly became one of his biggest hits. This version of the song features a simple but effective bass part from session legend Leland Sklar. Sklar, who has spent much of his career holding down the low end for Taylor (and many others), performed the line on a highly modified Fender Precision bass.

This song is in the key of G major and is played with a swing feel resulting in many triplet figures. Lee’s bassline is at all times supportive, but with simple and effective melodic fills poking through where appropriate.

To download the transcription (with TAB and without), please visit the Free Stuff page.