Another important early lesson on the guitar, is this, the famous 12 Bar Blues. It is probably the most used blues chord sequence, is usually the same progression but has some variations that are quite common.

The one presented here is the most basic version, and can be used in many ways.

 

Listen

Let's start by listening to the 12 Bar Blues so you know what it is you should be sounding like!

 

TAB and Notation

 

Playing 12 Bar

Start with your first finger in the second fret (4th string) and make sure you leave your first finger down the whole time. You play the note twice with the open 5th string played as well. Then add your 3rd finger two frets higher and play those notes twice. The third finger goes off and on the 4th fret (4th string).

Always play the string that has your finger on it and also the next thickest string (physically the string above it). None of the other strings should be played at all. You should try not to pick them, and try and let your first finger rest on the strings below the note you are playing (strings 1, 2 and 3) to mute them, just a soft touch will be enough to stop them from ringing out.

Changing between the chords is the hardest part. It will be easier if you remember to always start a new chord with only your first finger down, and of course you will always finish a bar with the 3rd finger down... that gives you a chance to change the string that your third finger is on, and willhelp make the transitions smooth.

Take it slow to start with and make sure that you play the right amount of notes on each chord, otherwise it own't be a 12 Bar Blues. Might help to count along with each bar, 1+2+3+4+. If you can try to tap your foot on beats 1, 2, 3 and 4

Also try and focus on maintaining an even rhythm as you change chords. This won't be easy at first but you should get it after a few goes.

The rhythm was described to me when I learnt it as a Chunka-Chunka rhythm (thanks to my old teacher in Tasmania - Pete Thompson). The proper word is swing 8's or a shuffle. You should be able to get it by listening to the recording, or by saying Chunka-Chunka, it kinda gives you the rhythm.

 

Listening and onwards...

Really concentrate on getting a good feel, listen to some old Chuck Berry, Status Quo or Rolling Stones songs for great examples of this. Spend a bit of time with the blues before you move on. It is the basis for many many songs so it is great thing to have in your repertiore. If you are into the blues you might want to check out Leadbelly as he is the earliest example of this style (that I have found so far anyway).

Really get this sorted before you move onto the next lesson, becuase it builds on what you have been doing here and if you have not got it down yet it will be very hard.

Next it's on to BC-013 • 12 Bar Blues Variations

 

Video Lesson

 

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