How to Play Fingerstyle Blues Guitar

Make a C chord shape., Play the 5th (A) and 4th (D)strings back and forth., Keep this alternating bass going; don't worry about the treble strings yet. , Practice the alternating bass until you no longer have to think about it. , Try some different...

12 Steps 1 min read Medium

Step-by-Step Guide

  1. Step 1: Make a C chord shape.

    This is called an "alternating bass"

    ,, When you are comfortable switching chords, it's time to give it the 'mojo'.

    Let the palm of your hand
    - the fleshy part on the side of your pinky rest lightly on the 3 bass strings (E;A;D) This will give you a thumping sound that imitates a string bass. , While you are thumping merrily along , If it is easier to pluck in time with your thumb, that's ok for now.

    When you are comfortable with the first steps, try plucking the treble strings randomly (not necessarily with the beat). , This is the syncopated rhythm of blues. ,,
  2. Step 2: Play the 5th (A) and 4th (D)strings back and forth.

  3. Step 3: Keep this alternating bass going; don't worry about the treble strings yet.

  4. Step 4: Practice the alternating bass until you no longer have to think about it.

  5. Step 5: Try some different chords (C7; D; F).

  6. Step 6: Explore the treble stings.

  7. Step 7: Let your index and middle fingers pluck the high E

  8. Step 8: B and G strings.

  9. Step 9: Try plucking on the musical beat

  10. Step 10: with the thumb (bass) on the offbeat.

  11. Step 11: Experiment with different chord changes and treble notes while maintaining the alternating bass.

  12. Step 12: Devastate your friends.

Detailed Guide

This is called an "alternating bass"

,, When you are comfortable switching chords, it's time to give it the 'mojo'.

Let the palm of your hand
- the fleshy part on the side of your pinky rest lightly on the 3 bass strings (E;A;D) This will give you a thumping sound that imitates a string bass. , While you are thumping merrily along , If it is easier to pluck in time with your thumb, that's ok for now.

When you are comfortable with the first steps, try plucking the treble strings randomly (not necessarily with the beat). , This is the syncopated rhythm of blues. ,,

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J

Joseph Knight

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