January 12, 2025 by Klaus Crow
Breaking Down the Blues Lick: Understanding the Key Elements
To fully appreciate the power of this blues lick, let’s take a deeper dive into some of its key elements. First, we’re working with the blues scale, which is a modified version of the minor pentatonic scale. It adds that all-important “blue note” (the b5) that gives blues its signature flavor. If you’re familiar with the minor pentatonic scale (1, b3, 4, 5, b7), the blues scale simply adds the b5, creating a more expressive, emotionally charged sound.
The hammer-ons and double stops we use in this lick are essential for capturing the gritty, soulful vibe of the blues. Hammer-ons allow you to create smooth, fluid transitions between notes, while double stops give the lick a richer, fuller sound, as you’re playing two notes simultaneously. Together, these techniques will add depth and character to your playing.
Tablature
Practice Tips: Start Slow, Stay Consistent
When learning this lick, don’t rush! Start slow and focus on getting the feel of the notes before trying to speed things up. One of the beauties of blues music is its expressive, laid-back nature, so playing at a slower tempo can often make your playing sound more soulful. As you become more comfortable with the lick, gradually increase your speed, but always make sure you’re hitting the right notes with precision.
If you’re struggling with the timing of the hammer-ons or double stops, don’t worry—these techniques can take a little time to master. Be patient, and keep practicing! One way to really get a feel for the phrasing is to listen to some of your favorite blues guitarists and try to mimic their phrasing and timing.
Adding Your Own Twist
Once you’ve got the lick down, don’t be afraid to make it your own! Try experimenting with slight variations in timing or phrasing, or even add in your own ornamentations like bends or slides. Blues is all about personal expression, so feel free to make this lick your own.
You can also try incorporating this lick into different sections of your own solos. It can work beautifully in both major and minor blues progressions, and you can adapt it to fit any key by simply moving it up or down the neck.
Final Thoughts
Remember, the more you practice and experiment with blues licks like this one, the more your musicality will grow. Blues guitar is about feel and expression, so don’t be afraid to play with emotion and put your personal touch on each note you play.
I hope you have as much fun learning and playing this lick as I did teaching it to you. Keep practicing, stay inspired, and most importantly—enjoy the journey!
Want more licks like this check out “Mastering a Gorgeous Blues Guitar Licks“
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