CAGED system for lead improvisation and solos

Course: Learn to Jam Lead Guitar

In this video

Try using C shape arpeggios using CAGED system shapes to improvise a solo over this simple jam track

The CAGED system works by using common open chord shapes to map out the guitar neck into five distinct sections. Those sections are based on the chord shapes of C, A, G, E and D, hence the name. The idea is that this can help to simplify the fretboard by revealing the relationship between common open chord shapes and note/interval arrangement on the guitar.

Try using C shape arpeggios using CAGED system shapes to improvise a solo over this simple jam track. More comprehensive lessons to follow in Andy's upcoming Lead Guitar courses!

CAGED system with the C chord

Blue = C shape. Green = A shape. Yellow = G shape. Orange = E shape. Red = D shape.

How to make the most of this course

See below interactive TAB synced to video for both the lead and rhythm lines for this jam. Use this to learn a few lick ideas to get you started improvising, or learn the full solos if you wish! Useful features of the interactive TAB player include;

  • Slow down and loop sections to break down longer, faster sections into manageable licks
  • Activate the 'fretboard visualisation', which shows which note is being played as well as shapes being used, all in real time
  • See the TAB brought to life as the player syncs to the video in real time!

Mike's improvised lead solo example - interactive TAB

Andy's rhythm loop - interactive TAB

Next Up: Lead licks with the Major 6th interval

Well done! Let's jump into the next lesson of the course.

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