Learn how to play "Key to the Highway" by Eric Clapton on the guitar.

In this lesson, we'll learn how to play Key to the Highway on the guitar. Many great artists, including Eric Clapton, have covered this Blues Standard. Originally recorded by Big Bill Broonzy, this eight-bar blues version has become a staple in the blues repertoire. We'll learn a simple yet effective way to play it and take a peek at some of the more intricate elements that make this song so special.

Key to the Highway is a classic blues song with a rich history and a timeless appeal. We'll look at it in the key of A, similar to how Eric Clapton played it. This version keeps things straightforward using a D and E open shuffle, making it accessible for beginners and allowing more advanced players to add their flair.

Chord Progression

The song follows a traditional eight-bar blues format. Start with A for one bar, then move to E for one bar. Play D for two bars, then return to A for one bar. Switch to E for one bar, return to A for one bar, and finish with E for one bar, often including a turnaround.

It's a relatively simple structure, but what makes it shine is how you play it. We'll keep it nice and simple, focusing on getting the shuffle rhythm down.

Playing the Melody

One of the best ways to make this song your own is by playing the melody on the guitar. It's a great way to start a solo and understand how the melody notes fit with the chords. We'll start in the key of A and touch on some elements from Big Bill Broonzy's version in the key of E. This version has a more intricate guitar arrangement, which adds a unique flavor to the tune.

Adding Embellishments and Turnarounds

Once you're comfortable with the basic shuffle and chord progression, add some embellishments. For example, you can move your third finger to the fifth fret on the D chord. These little touches add character and make the song more interesting to play. Feel free to experiment and find what sounds best to you.

Turnarounds are essential to blues music, and Key to the Highway is no exception. A turnaround typically occurs at the end of a progression and sets you up to return to the beginning. You can use many different turnarounds, but we'll focus on a straightforward one to keep things simple.

Final Thoughts

Begin playing Key to the Highway slowly to slow down the rhythm and chord changes. Focus on the basic version before adding any embellishments. Try different rhythms and turnarounds to make the song your own. Remember, playing blues is all about feeling, so stay relaxed and enjoy the process.

This song invites experimentation. Whether you stick to a basic shuffle like Eric Clapton or dive into the more intricate elements of Big Bill Broonzy's version, there's plenty of room to make it your own. Don't be afraid to mix and match different elements and see what works best for you.

Playing blues standards like Key to the Highway is a rewarding experience. It allows you to connect with the rich blues history while adding your unique touch. Whether you're a beginner or an experienced player, this song offers something for everyone. So grab your guitar, watch the video, and start playing!

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