In this video
Study the lead playing style of electric blues pioneer T-Bone Walker, who’s lead licks are constantly mixing scales. His use of microtones and chord tones add a jazz feel to his playing
Welcome to this video on the lead playing style of electric blues pioneer T-Bone Walker.
T-Bone's lead licks are constantly mixing scales and mixing the major and minor 3rd. His use of microtones along with chord tones add to the jazz feel of his playing, while also inspiring many rock 'n' roll players such as Chuck Berry and even Angus Young of AC/DC. All the while, he often played these licks while having the guitar between his legs or behind his head!!
T-Bone Walker lead study - interactive tab
N.B. Activate the fretboard graphic on the tab above to see scales, chords and neck shapes brought to life!
Scale used - Bb minor pentatonic shape 1
Primarily the lead notes from this jam use the Bb minor pentatonic shape 1, but the major 6th and major 3rd intervals are added briefly to add a jazzy feel and to add chord tones to the lead licks.
Blue = Bb minor pentatonic shape 1. Pink = Major 6th interval. Green = Major 3rd interval
N.B. Blues/ jazz licks always go from the minor 3rd to the major 3rd - NEVER the other way around!
Course Outline
Texas Blues Bootcamp with Mike Bradley