The Intro - All Aboard!

Honky Tonk Train Blues by Midlux Lewis

So, Honky Tonk Train Blues by Midlux Lewis is an absolute classic and a monster of a piece, mainly for the left hand. The left hand is a killer because it relies on a sort of repetitive motif throughout the whole tune. This really emphasizes the flexibility of the wrist.

Introduction

Let's start at the top and go through the whole tune.

• Intro:
  • It's kind of similar to the Pinetops boogie woogie intro in that it's a percussive thing between the hands.
  • The voicing being used might include a D and maybe an A, but it really sounds like it's that.
  • To be honest, whether you do or you don't doesn't really matter; it's all about the effect of that.

Inspiration

You know, it's called Honky Tonk Train Blues for a reason. This piece is very much inspired by the noises and sounds of the railroad, particularly the locomotives and steam engines going past.

• Imagine:
  • That is like a train whistle.
  • Throughout the piece, you'll hear different aspects of the steam trains and the railroads, particularly at the end where it almost comes to a halt as it slows down into a station.

Playing Tips

• Start the intro at a lower, slower tempo.
• Aim to get it as even as possible.
• You could play it for longer.
• Although I believe I've transcribed it pretty accurately to what I heard, you could extend it slightly to add:
  • A bit of drama
  • A bit of anticipation
• Consider adding a slightly longer pause before the actual rhythm kicks in.

And then, we're into the tune!