-
Step 1
Play a pentatonic scale to play the blues riff. That means that the scale only has five notes. They are E-G-A-B-D.
-
Step 2
Run this scale backwards and forwards. You may also start the riff on any fret and the scale is the same pattern. This scale can be used in many different forms of music, from hard rock to country and western, in addition to the basic blues.
-
Step 3
Bend the strings when you get to the final d on each pattern, then continue with the next key. With the finger that is holding down the string, push up on the string while you are playing the note. You can bend any of the notes in the scale to add variety to your practice.
-
Step 4
Use a slide to add another dimension to the blues scales. This slide can be a metal or glass pipe that fits over your fret finger. Instead of pressing down on the string, slide the tube over the notes as you pick each string. wiggle the slide slightly to get even deeper tones.
-
Step 5
Change the tempo to get different sounds. Play the first three notes quickly, then slow down on the last two. Bend the last note as it slows.
-
Step 6
Then pick up the pace again, slowing as you repeat. Improvising is a major component of playing the blues, because you've got to get some feeling behind the tunes. Playing the scales in various beats will prepare you to jam with different artists.
