How to Play Blues Rhythm Guitar Chords
By Riffhard Staff
There’s something timeless and compelling about blues rhythm guitar. It’s the heartbeat of countless songs, and once you get the hang of it, you’ll understand why it’s a staple in the world of music. We’re breaking down the essentials of playing blues rhythm guitar chords, and by the end, you’ll have the tools to bring that soulful vibe to your own playing.
Understanding the 12-Bar Blues Structure
Before anything else, let’s talk about the 12-bar blues structure. It’s like the skeleton of most blues songs, and understanding it is crucial. The structure often follows a pattern of three chords, typically the I, IV, and V chords. In the key of E, for example, you’d be looking at E (I), A (IV), and B (V).
Here’s how it usually plays out:
- 4 bars of the I chord (E)
- 2 bars of the IV chord (A)
- 2 bars of the I chord (E)
- 1 bar of the V chord (B)
- 1 bar of the IV chord (A)
- 2 bars of the I chord (E)
This structure creates a framework that you can embellish with different rhythms and techniques. Once you have this down, you’re free to add your personal flair. Remember, blues is all about emotion and expression, so don’t be afraid to experiment within this framework.
Getting Comfortable with Dominant 7th Chords
Dominant 7th chords are a must for blues. They give the music that distinctive sound, adding tension and a touch of grit. If you’re not familiar with them, they’re not as complex as they sound.
Let’s go over a few basics:
- E7: 020100
- A7: x02020
- B7: x21202
These chords are the backbone of many blues songs. Spend some time getting comfortable with the shapes and transitions between them. Practice them slowly at first, ensuring each note rings out clearly, then gradually increase your speed.
Interestingly enough, these chords can add a splash of color to your playing. If you’re looking to deepen your understanding, Riffhard offers lessons that delve into the subtleties of chord voicings and more advanced techniques.
Mastering the Shuffle Rhythm
The shuffle rhythm is synonymous with blues. It’s that swing feel that makes the genre so infectious. Think of it as the rhythm that gets feet tapping and heads nodding.
To play a shuffle rhythm, you’ll primarily be working with eighth notes. However, instead of playing them evenly, you’ll give the first note in the pair a little extra emphasis. Imagine the rhythm as “da-da-da, da-da-da” rather than a straight “da-da-da-da-da-da.”
Here’s a simple exercise to get you started:
E |----------------|----------------|
B |----------------|----------------|
G |----------------|----------------|
D |-----2---2-2----|-----2---2-2----|
A |-2h4---4------4-|--2h4---4-----4-|
E |----------------|----------------|
This pattern is often played using a combination of downstrokes and upstrokes to maintain that swinging feel. Start slow, focusing on keeping the rhythm steady, then gradually pick up the pace.
The Art of Muting
Muting is a secret weapon in a blues guitarist’s toolkit. It allows you to control the sound, adding dynamics and character to your playing. There are two primary types of muting: palm muting and fretting hand muting.
Palm Muting
Palm muting involves gently resting the side of your picking hand on the strings near the bridge. This technique dampens the strings, creating a more percussive sound. It’s often used to add texture to rhythm parts.
Fretting Hand Muting
Fretting hand muting is about using your fretting fingers to lightly touch the strings, preventing them from ringing out. This can be achieved by releasing the pressure on the strings while still maintaining contact.
Experiment with both techniques to find your preferred sound. Each method offers a unique way to express yourself, adding to the versatility of your blues playing.
Incorporating Turnarounds
Turnarounds are a hallmark of blues music. They create a sense of closure, preparing the listener for the next verse or chorus. A typical turnaround lasts two measures and ends on the V chord, bringing the progression back to the I chord.
Here’s a classic blues turnaround in the key of E:
E |--------0-------|---0-----------|
B |--------0-------|---0-----------|
G |--------1-------|---1-----------|
D |--------2-------|---2-----------|
A |--2-1-0---------|---------------|
E |--------2-------|---0-----------|
Play around with different variations, adding your personal flair. Turnarounds can be as simple or as complex as you like, so don’t hesitate to get creative.
Adding Color with Chord Extensions
Once you’re comfortable with the basics, it’s time to spice things up with chord extensions. These are additional notes that can make your chords sound richer and more interesting. For example, try adding the ninth or thirteenth to your dominant 7th chords.
Here’s how you might play an E9 chord:
E |---7---|
B |---7---|
G |---7---|
D |---6---|
A |---7---|
E |---x---|
Extensions like these can give your playing a more sophisticated sound, perfect for adding depth to your blues rhythm guitar.
Using Riffs and Licks
Riffs and licks are short musical phrases that add flavor and excitement to your playing. They can be used to fill spaces between chord changes or to create memorable hooks. In blues, these often involve bending, sliding, and hammer-ons or pull-offs.
Consider this simple blues lick in E:
E |----------------------|
B |----------------------|
G |---2b3r2--------------|
D |---------2------------|
A |-----------0----------|
E |----------------------|
Practice incorporating riffs and licks into your chord progressions. They can transform a basic rhythm part into something truly engaging.
Exploring Different Blues Styles
Blues isn’t a one-size-fits-all genre. From Delta blues to Chicago blues, each style has its unique characteristics. Exploring these different styles can broaden your understanding and inspire new ideas.
Delta Blues
Delta blues is raw and emotional, often played with just a guitar and voice. It typically features fingerpicking patterns and open tunings.
Chicago Blues
Chicago blues is electrified, with a stronger emphasis on the band. It often incorporates harmonica and saxophone, along with guitar and vocals.
Try listening to artists from different blues genres and notice how their rhythm guitar parts differ. It might give you fresh perspectives on your playing.
Practice, Patience, and Progress
Like any skill, playing blues rhythm guitar takes practice. Be patient with yourself as you learn new techniques and incorporate them into your playing. Consistent practice is the key to progress.
Set aside regular practice time, and don’t be afraid to challenge yourself with more difficult pieces. Remember, the goal is to enjoy the journey and express yourself through music.
For those looking to deepen their skills, Riffhard offers a range of lessons from top guitarists, focusing on rhythm techniques and more.
Final Thoughts
Blues rhythm guitar is all about feeling and expression. By exploring different chords, rhythms, and techniques, you can create something truly personal and unique. And if you’re eager to refine your skills further, Riffhard provides lessons from some of the best guitarists out there, ready to guide you on your musical journey. Enjoy the process, and let the blues take you where it will!