How to Play 12 Bar Blues Guitar

Basic blues music is constructed around a progression of 12 bars. The 12 bars also allow individual performers to ad-lib and the guitar player often has to maintain the rhythm while others improvise. The 12 bar blues is a signature rift for any blues guitar player.

Difficulty: Moderate

Instructions

1. Start with the open A and the second fret of the G string. Strum this combination twice.

2. Move the third finger to the fourth fret of the D string. Play this along with the open A.

3. Use the fourth finger to play the fifth fret of the D String. Strum this twice again with the open A.

4. Play this progression of notes forward and backward. Each note combination should be played twice.

5. Move the fingers over to the E string and repeat the same progression as before. The notes should be played as eight notes when played up to speed. The rhythm should be maintained.

6. Add an E7 chord turnaround. The 12 bar blues can also be played using the palm of the right hand to slightly mute the vibration of the strings to give the 12 bar blues a more country swing feel.