A Brief History of the Blues

The blues is a genre of music that originated in the African-American communities of the southern United States in the late 19th and early 20th centuries. It evolved from spirituals, work songs, field hollers, and the folk music of former slaves. The blues gave rise to many other musical genres, including jazz, rhythm and blues, and rock and roll. It’s characterized by its use of the blues scale, a call-and-response pattern, and often expresses themes of sorrow, hardship, and resilience. Below is a chord chart of the basic “quick to four” 12-bar blues form.

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The 12-Bar Blues: A Foundation of Blues Music

The 12-bar blues is one of the most common chord progressions in blues music. It forms the backbone of countless songs and provides a structure for improvisation. In the key of E, the basic progression uses the I, IV, and V chords (E, A, and B).

The “Quick to Four” Variation

In the standard 12-bar blues, the first four bars are typically all the I chord (E7 in this case). The “quick to four” variation, however, introduces the IV chord (A7) in the second bar, which adds a bit more movement and interest to the progression. This is the variation used in the chord chart above. This variation is widely used in blues music and adds a unique flavor to the progression.

Importance of Improvisation in the Blues

Improvisation is at the heart of blues music. While the 12-bar blues provides a structural foundation, the true essence of the blues lies in the player’s ability to express emotion and creativity through spontaneous melodies and rhythms. As you play through the progression, experiment with different chord voicings, licks, and embellishments. Don’t be afraid to break away from the structure—improvisation is where your personal expression comes to life. Start by playing through the form playing only quarter notes (every beat) for every chord. If you’re looking at the chord chart, you’ll play on every slash mark. This will help you get used to the form and changes of the blues and prepare you to start improvising!

Shuffle and Swing

One of the defining characteristics of blues music is the use of a shuffle or swing rhythm. Shuffle and swing are both rhythmic feels that are common in blues, jazz, and related genres, but they have distinct characteristics:

Shuffle

• Rhythm: In a shuffle, the beat is divided into triplets, and the first and third notes of each triplet are played, creating a “long-short” pattern. This gives the music a driving, rolling feel.
• Feel: The shuffle has a more consistent, even pulse, often associated with the rhythm of a train or a steady heartbeat.
• Usage: Shuffle rhythms are very common in blues and rock music. They create a groovy, chugging feel that’s great for driving beats.

Swing

• Rhythm: Swing also uses a triplet-based division of the beat, but instead of strictly playing the first and third triplet notes, swing is more flexible and emphasizes a “laid-back” or “lazy” feel. The timing between the first and second notes can vary, making the rhythm feel more relaxed and less strict than a shuffle.
• Feel: Swing has a more fluid and flexible timing, often described as having a “bounce” or “lilt.” It can range from a light bounce to a more exaggerated swing, depending on the style.
• Usage: Swing is essential in jazz and is also found in blues. It’s key to creating the loose, improvisational feel that jazz is known for.

Exploring Different Voicings and Styles

The included PDF provides chord diagrams for the basic E7, A7, and B7 chords, but the beauty of the blues is its versatility. You can experiment with different chord voicings, such as using barre chords, open chords, or even adding extensions like ninths or thirteenths. The blues is a genre that invites creativity, so feel free to explore different ways to express the progression.

Conclusion: Many Ways to Play the Blues

This is just one of many ways to play the blues, the “quick to four” variation is a great example of how a small change can create a fresh sound. Whether you’re a beginner or an experienced player, the blues offers endless possibilities for exploration. Remember to experiment with different rhythms, chord voicings, and improvisations as you develop your own blues style. The most important thing is to enjoy the process and let your creativity flow. Happy practicing!