INSTANTLY Change The Way You Solo (DO THIS!)

Call and response is a common technique used in blues guitar solos, where the lead guitar player will play a phrase, or "call," and the rhythm guitar player or the band will respond with another phrase, or "response." This technique creates a back-and-forth conversation between the lead and rhythm guitar, giving the solo a dynamic and interactive feel.

One of the key elements of call and response in blues solos is the use of the blues scale. The lead guitar player will often use the blues scale to play their "call" phrase, and the rhythm guitar player or band will respond using a similar answer type of phrase. This creates a cohesive sound and allows for a seamless transition between the lead and rhythm guitar parts.

Another important aspect of call and response in blues solos is the use of dynamics. The lead guitar player will often start off with a low-key phrase, and the rhythm guitar player or band will respond with a louder, more...

Here’s a timeless staple of the blues.

In fact, I think every blues guitar player should know how to play at least one version of it. This gem has been covered by many great artists. 

But the first version was released by one of the kings of the blues, Mr. Albert King.

Below we’ll dive into the song’s history, and how to play a few classic versions.

So grab your guitar and let’s dive into this “Born Under A Bad Sign” guitar lesson.

Who wrote Born Under A Bad Sign?

"Born Under a Bad Sign" was written by Booker T. Jones and William Bell. Booker T. Jones, a multi-instrumentalist and leader of the band Booker T. & the M.G.'s, composed the music. William Bell, a renowned soul singer and songwriter, wrote the lyrics.

The song's lyrics describe a man who believes his life has been plagued by bad luck since birth. The phrase "born under a bad sign" suggests astrological misfortune, and being born into the blues. 

The song was first recorded...

I’ve noticed over the years of being at countless jams and sitting in at shows and venues that “Superstition” is a song that a lot of bands call.

It’s a universal jamming song, for sure at least here in Los Angeles. 

One of the great things about it is that the main part of the tune is just a groove over one chord Eb minor. 

Then there is a B section…

Today I’m going to break down the iconic original by Stevie Wonder. But also a great blues guitar version done by Stevie Ray Vaughan. 

In fact, I’ve been onstage so many times and this song has been called that I even created a unique tuning for it. 

This tuning allows you to play the riff and get a really full sound, without having to tune your whole guitar down ½ step. 

(This is covered in the Stevie Wonder lesson video)

Tuning down all the strings can be a pain to do onstage quickly with just one guitar. So this hack is a lifesaver.

For the Stevie Ray...