Learn to play "Stormy Monday" by The Allman Brothers on guitar

In this lesson, we'll learn how to play Stormy Monday on the guitar. This classic Blues tune has an amazing heritage, starting with T-Bone Walker, then Bobby Bland's version, and finally, the Allman Brothers' incredible interpretation, which we'll be exploring today.

Stormy Monday is a fantastic Blues tune that features some really interesting chord changes and wonderful rhythm work. While it's based on a 12-bar Blues progression in G, it includes some unique twists that make it stand out from your standard Blues progression.

What really makes the Allman Brothers' version shine is the interplay between the two guitar parts. The rhythm work is absolutely sublime, featuring what I call "gospel slides" and some really tasteful chord voicings. The solo work is equally impressive–it's a masterclass in how to navigate complex changes while keeping things musical and not overcomplicated.

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Understanding the Chord Progression

The song follows a modified 12-bar Blues structure in G but with some really cool variations. We start with a G7, move to C7, and then there's this lovely chromatic movement from G7 to G♯7 and back. The most unique part comes in the middle section, where we move through a series of minor chords - Am, Bm, B♭m - before hitting a D7 and then Cm. It all wraps up with a classic turnaround: G to C, back to G, and then to D.

Throughout the song, we use some beautiful extended chords, particularly ninth chords (G9, C9), which give the song its distinctive sound. These voicings create a rich, full sound while still maintaining space in the arrangement. The way these chords are played–with slides, subtle variations, and specific rhythmic patterns–really brings out the soul in this Blues classic.

The Two Guitar Parts

One of the most exciting aspects of this song is how the two guitar parts work together. The first guitar handles the main rhythm and chord progression, while the second guitar adds complementary parts that create this wonderful, full, rich sound the Allman Brothers are known for.

We'll learn both parts separately and then see how to combine elements of both when playing solo. If you're playing with another guitarist, you'll definitely want to try playing these parts together–it's a really rewarding experience!

Special Techniques

We'll explore some cool techniques like the "gospel slide"–a signature Blues move that appears throughout the song in various forms. This technique might take some practice to master, but it adds so much character to your playing.

The rhythm work in this song is particularly interesting, with some subtle nuances that really make it groove. Don't worry too much about getting every single detail perfect–focus on the feel and let the music guide you.

Final Thoughts

This timeless Blues classic has evolved through several iconic versions, from T-Bone Walker's original to Bobby Bland's jazz-influenced interpretation and finally to the Allman Brothers' masterful rendition. Each version brings unique elements, with T-Bone Walker's jazz-influenced licks and Bobby Bland's sophisticated ninth chords laying the groundwork for what would become a Blues standard.

While this song can be challenging, especially during jam sessions, due to its unique chord changes, dedicated practice will help you master both its rhythm and lead parts. Focus particularly on those distinctive changes in the beginning and the minor chord sequence–these are what give Stormy Monday its special character.

In the video, we'll examine everything step by step, from the basic progression to those signature gospel slides and rhythm techniques, seeing exactly how to play each part. We'll start with simpler versions of the chord progression and gradually add more complexity as you get comfortable with the basic framework. Whether you're an intermediate player looking to expand your Blues vocabulary or an advanced player wanting to nail every detail, this lesson has something for everyone.

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