In our first lesson on the blues, we learned in 6 steps the 12 bar blues form, the chords involved, and how to play rhythm guitar through the form. Beginning with step 7 below we’ll move on to lead guitar playing.

7) Learn the Blues Scale
If you know the minor pentatonic scale, start there. The minor pentatonic includes the root, b3, 4, 5, and b7 of the minor scale. To convert this to “the blues scale” (the default scale when people say “blues scale”, though there are many more) simply add the b5 in between the 4 and 5. I.e. add a note in between the 3rd and 4th notes of the minor pentatonic scale.  In the case of A minor pentatonic, that would be the 6th fret on the A string.  Try to find where that added note exists in other octaves and add it there as well.

8) Rhythm and Lead
Incorporate some of the blues scale notes into your rhythm playing by switching off between strumming the chords and playing single notes

9) Phrasing
Try to play a lead lick from the blues scale in measures 3-4, 7-8 and 11-12. Experiment with making each lick a different length as well as starting them on different beats.  These licks can be simple, including as few as 2 or 3 notes….take your time!

10) Utilize the “Turnaround”
The turnaround that often occurs in measure 11 is a very recognizable descending lick that you have most likely heard.  For this turnaround, in the key of E, you can play the notes E (open E string), D (3rd fret B string), C# (2nd fret B string), C (1st fret B string) and B (open B string).  See if you recognize it.  At the end of the lick, the V chord is played to help “turnaround” back to the I chord when the form begins all over again.

11) Use BackingTracks
There are a bevy of these on YouTube to help guide you through the form so you can check your accuracy and use of the “swing” feel.  Simply type in “**blank** blues backing track”, with the key you want being inserted into **blank**.

12) Listen
Listen to the greats, particularly at their phrasing, note choice and rhythm.  They all use a lot of the same techniques and many of the same licks so keep your ears open and absorb.  A few players to start with are Freddie King, Muddy Waters, BB King & Albert King. As you get more advanced you may be ready to take on Eric Clapton, Jimi Hendrix and Stevie Ray Vaughn.

related post: 12 Steps to 12 Bar Blues part 1

© 2014 Brenna Method