Originating from traditional vocal music, call-and-response phrasing divides a solo into a question and an answer. The first lick establishes a theme (the call), and the second lick resolves it, usually landing firmly on the root note of the chord (the response). Categorizing the 100 Blues Licks
Always identify which chord the lick is played over (e.g., the I, IV, or V chord).
The minor pentatonic scale consists of five notes. By adding a sharp fourth (or flat fifth) interval, you get the six-note blues scale. This added note—the "blue note"—creates a sense of tension and grit that defines the classic Chicago and Texas blues sounds. 2. Microtonal Bending (The "Curl")
Intro licks set the mood and establish the key and tempo for the listener. They typically begin on the V (five) chord or lead directly into the root note of the I (one) chord as the first verse begins. Turnaround Licks
: Beyond isolated riffs, the book includes two complete solos that demonstrate how to combine these licks into a coherent musical statement.
The five-note backbone of blues and rock. In the key of A, the notes are A, C, D, E, and G.
: Boost the mids (5-7) to help your lead lines cut through the mix. How To Play The Blues | EASY Guitar Lesson for Beginners!
But what exactly makes this collection a staple on the music stands of players worldwide? We dive into the structure, the history, and the practical application of this essential resource.
Stevie Ray Vaughan and Johnny Winter injected rock power into the blues. These licks involve speed, economy picking, and aggressive right-hand muting.
The turnaround occurs in the final two bars of a 12-bar blues progression (bars 11 and 12). Its job is to create harmonic tension that resolves back to the beginning of the form. Turnaround licks frequently utilize descending or ascending chromatic lines that target the V chord. Ending Licks