Leaving Space

Understanding Phrasing and Rhythm in Blues Music

So, that's just a very simple kind of concept. I mean, I say "simple," and I don't mean that in a dismissive way. It doesn't necessarily mean it's easy; it's quite hard sometimes to just stay in that place and explore different rhythms and phrasing.

The Art of One Note

Even just playing one note can be profound.

• Take Your Time: Really think about how you're going to transition into the next phrase.
• Response: Remember, the next phrase is a response to the previous one. For example, if the first phrase is played, ask yourself: "How am I going to answer that?"

You can also leave loads of space.

The Influence of B.B. King

One thing B.B. King always does that I love is play expressive high octave notes on the root.

• This creates a beautiful emotional quality.
• You can even repeat the same phrase.

I think that's a great starting point: have the mindset of "less is more", especially with blues music. It's all about feeling and soul, not showing off.

Building Your Solo

You can always build upon your ideas as well.

• If you start a solo in one position, for instance, you can play a similar concept but lower down.
• A very easy way to think about a solo is to build up to a climax.

Start from a lower position with that same mindset, and then gradually take it up a level.

Referencing Other Players

In my head, I'm always referencing other players.

• For example, I think about B.B. King as a foundation.
• Then, consider: "What would someone like Stevie Ray Vaughan do?"

Stevie often incorporates rhythmic elements into his playing.

• Not just licks, but also rhythmical patterns. For instance, he might play something like:

  "Da-da-da, da."

This approach allows you to build as you're playing, incorporating simple chords within the context of the solo.

You don't always have to be playing single notes.

I'll just give a little example of that over the backing track.