How to Play Blues Guitar on YouTube

So, you’re itching to learn blues guitar on YouTube. Maybe you’ve heard those soul-stirring licks and thought, “I want to do that!” Well, you’re in the right place. We’re going to break down how YouTube can be your go-to resource for learning blues guitar, just like it’s been for so many modern metal players. Let’s make blues guitar not just accessible but downright fun!

Picking the Right YouTube Channels

The first step in your blues journey is finding the right channels. YouTube is overflowing with guitar content, but not all of it hits the mark. You want channels that offer quality instruction without frills. Look for instructors who break down techniques clearly and play examples at various speeds, so you can follow along no matter your skill level.

Some popular YouTube channels that focus on blues guitar include JustinGuitar, Marty Music, and Active Melody. These channels are known for their straightforward and engaging teaching styles. They cover everything from beginner blues progressions to advanced soloing techniques.

Understanding the Blues Scale

The blues scale is your bread and butter. It’s what gives blues its unique sound and feel. The classic blues scale is a minor pentatonic scale with an added flat fifth, also known as the “blue note.” Here’s a quick rundown of how it looks in the key of A:

A - C - D - D# - E - G - A

Spend some time getting comfortable with this scale. Practice it up and down the fretboard, and experiment with bending the notes for that authentic bluesy feel. You’ll find plenty of tutorials on YouTube that break down how to play the blues scale in different positions and keys.

The Power of the 12-Bar Blues

Ah, the 12-bar blues. It’s the foundation of countless blues songs. The structure is simple yet incredibly versatile. Typically, it follows a I-IV-V chord progression, which means you’ll be using the first, fourth, and fifth chords of whatever key you’re playing in.

For example, in the key of A, your chords would be:

• I – A
• IV – D
• V – E

You can find endless lessons on YouTube that dissect the 12-bar blues, teaching you how to add variations and embellishments. As you get more comfortable, try incorporating techniques like bends, slides, and vibrato to make the progression your own.

Getting the Right Tone

The blues is as much about feeling as it is about technique, and your tone plays a huge role in conveying that emotion. A warm, slightly overdriven tone is often key to nailing that blues sound. YouTube is a treasure trove of gear demos that can help you find the right amp and pedal settings.

Start by experimenting with your guitar’s tone controls and your amp settings. A little reverb can go a long way in adding depth to your sound. Don’t hesitate to look up gear reviews and tone-setting tutorials to help you shape your ideal blues tone.

Learning Licks and Solos

Blues guitar is all about expressing emotion, and nothing does that quite like a well-executed lick or solo. YouTube is packed with tutorials that break down famous blues licks from legends like B.B. King, Stevie Ray Vaughan, and Eric Clapton.

When watching these tutorials, take note of the phrasing and timing. Blues is not just about playing the right notes; it’s about playing them with feeling. Try to emulate the expression and dynamics you hear in the licks, and soon, you’ll develop your own style.

Practicing with Backing Tracks

Once you’ve got some licks and scales under your belt, it’s time to put them into practice. Backing tracks are an excellent way to do this. YouTube offers a plethora of high-quality blues backing tracks in various keys and styles.

Practicing with a backing track helps you develop your timing and improvisational skills. It’s like playing with a real band, minus the pressure. As you get more comfortable, try recording yourself to track your progress and identify areas for improvement.

Using YouTube Playlists to Stay Organized

With such a vast array of content, it’s easy to get overwhelmed. Creating playlists on YouTube can help keep your learning organized. Sort tutorials by topic, such as scales, licks, or gear, so you can easily find what you need when it’s time to practice.

You can also subscribe to channels that resonate with your learning style. This way, you’ll get notified when new content is available, keeping your practice routine fresh and exciting.

Connecting with the Community

One of the great things about YouTube is its community aspect. Engage with other learners in the comments section, ask questions, and share your progress. Many channels have active communities where you can find support and feedback.

Some channels even offer live sessions where you can interact with instructors in real-time. This is a fantastic way to get personalized tips and make connections with other blues enthusiasts.

Riffhard and Modern Metal Techniques

While we’re all about blues today, if you’re into modern metal guitar, Riffhard offers lessons from some of the best in the business. Our platform focuses on rhythm techniques crucial for genres like metalcore and djent. It’s worth checking out if you’re looking to expand your guitar skills beyond blues.

Interestingly enough, many of the techniques you learn in metal can complement your blues playing. Techniques like alternate picking and precise timing can add a new layer to your blues solos. If you’re curious, head over to Riffhard to see how these styles can intersect.

Staying Motivated

Learning guitar is a journey, and it’s easy to hit roadblocks. Set small, achievable goals to keep yourself motivated. Celebrate the little victories, like mastering a challenging lick or nailing the timing of a tricky progression.

Remember, even the greatest guitarists started where you are. Keep practicing, stay curious, and enjoy the process. The more you play, the more you’ll discover the endless possibilities the guitar offers.

Final Thoughts

Learning blues guitar on YouTube is a journey filled with discovery and creativity. From picking the right channels to practicing with backing tracks, there’s a lot to explore. As you dive deeper into blues, remember that Riffhard is here if you ever want to branch out into modern metal. With lessons from top metal guitarists, our platform complements your blues journey by offering new skills to enhance your playing. Keep strumming and enjoy the ride!