Intro to the Blues Shuffle Guitar Lesson
Intro to the Blues Shuffle
The shuffle is one of the most common rhythms used in blues music. Hawkeye introduces the most basic shuffle rhythm pattern.
Taught by Hawkeye Herman in Blues Guitar with Hawkeye seriesLength: 18:12Difficulty: 1.5 of 5
Usually a shuffle rhythm is indicated at the top of a musical score. This indication tells the musician that pairs of eighth notes should be "swung." Thus, a pair of eighth notes should be played as a quarter note triplet followed by an eighth note triplet. In a jazz lead sheet, this swing, shuffled eighth note feel is always implied unless noted otherwise. Often a portion will be labeled "straight eighths" if the shuffle rhythm is to be suspended momentarily.
"Good Morning, Blues" with the Blues Shuffle
In this series, Hawkeye has used the song "Good Morning, Blues" as a musical example when demonstrating new topics. In previous lessons, you learned how to play this 12 bar blues tune with various strumming rhythms such as the "boom chick-a". This rhythm consists of an eighth followed by two sixteenths. You also learned about the melody to this tune and how it is phrased. This time around, Hawkeye demonstrates how the blues shuffle can be applied to this blues classic. The shuffle rhythm can be used as an accompaniment figure to most 12 bar blues melodies.
Playing the Shuffle Rhythm
The shuffle evolved from rhythm patterns played in the left-hand by boogie-woogie piano players. Imitating this basic rhythm figure on the guitar is quite simple. The first chord in a 12 bar blues progression in the key of E is the tonic chord, E. Instead of playing a full E major chord, start with a basic, open E5 power chord voicing. Play the low E string open. Play this note in conjunction with the note B at the 2nd fret of the A string. This chord figure alternates with a chord voicing that implies an E6 chord. The E6 chord consists of the low, open E string played in conjunction with the note C# on the 4th fret of the A string. The third finger frets this note. When switching between these two chord figures, it is not necessary to leave the first finger planted at the second fret. Holding the first finger down for the duration of the measure may result in unnecessary fatigue.
Note: Standard Notation and Tablature to the shuffle pattern in the key of E major can be found under the "Supplemental Content" tab.
To play the shuffle rhythm over the IV chord (A), simply shift this chord shape down to the A and D strings respectively.
Switching Between Chords
Before you dive into playing these chords in the context of a 12 bar blues form, practice each of the individual chord changes. Make sure the rhythm remains constant and even through all of the chord changes. Always practice with a metronome! Start with the metronome set to a very slow tempo. Once you can play through the changes perfectly in time at this tempo, begin to increase the tempo one metronome setting at a time. Also, as an exercise, practice switching chords after every bar. This will enable you to drill the chord changes in a more efficient manner. Eventually, you will need to change chords this quickly as Hawkeye introduces slightly more complicated versions of the blues shuffle. Chapter 2: (08:59) More Blues Shuffle Playing the B Chord
In order to play the V chord (B), a different left-hand fingering must be applied. A B5 power chord can be played by fretting the note B with the first finger at the 2nd fret of the A string. Then fret the note F# at the 4th fret of the D string. To reach the major sixth interval above the root, the pinkie finger must stretch up to the 6th fret of the D string. Stretching the pinkie up to the sixth fret poses problems for some beginners, especially those with small hands. Practice finger dexterity and stretch exercises such as those found in Dennis' Metal series to improve your reach. Then, return to this chord. Chances are that you’ll find it slightly easier. Leave the first and third fingers planted throughout this measure.
This same figure can be played higher on the neck if you find this stretch unmanageable. Watch Hawkeye for a demonstration of how to play this same chord in seventh position.
Practice with the B Chord
Now, practice switching back and forth between this chord and the other two chord shapes in the 12 bar blues progression.
Once you have mastered the individual chord changes, practice playing through the entire 12 bar blues form. Practice both versions listed under the "Supplemental Content" tab. Practice this rhythm at a very wide range of tempos. Finally, when you feel ready, try playing the shuffle pattern along with Hawkeye.
Palm-Muting
Frequently, the blues shuffle is played with light palm muting. To perform this technique, lightly rest the heel of the palm just to the left of the bridge. The term "palm-muting" can be quite misleading. The strings are not actually muted. Rather, the right-hand palm muffles the strings to create a deeper, more "punchy" sound. Listen to Halkeye as he palm-mutes. Then, imitate the sound that he produces. Be careful not to slide your palm too far from the bridge. This will result in a completely muted, dead sound.
Shuffle Pattern with Singing
Hawkeye sings "Good Morning, Blues" along with the shuffle rhythm. Compare this version to the versions in previous lessons. What affect does the shuffle pattern have on the overall arrangement and sound of the song?
The Shuffle Rhythm and Rock and Roll
If you speed the shuffle up and play with straight eighth notes, you have the rhythms of early rock and roll rhythms played by guitarists such as Chuck Berry. "Johnie B. Goode" is a classic example of how this rhythm can be applied to a distinctly rock rhythm texture. "The House is Rockin'" performed by Stevie Ray Vaughn and Double Trouble provides another similar example. Hopefully, you are beginning to see many of the similarities between rock and roll and the blues.
Final Thoughts
In this lesson, Hawkeye Herman has demonstrated the most basic version of the blues shuffle. In future lessons, Hawkeye will introduce many variations that can be made to this basic pattern. Learning these additional shuffle methods will add much needed variety and sophistication to your blues rhythm playing.
Supplemental Learning Material
Blues Guitar with Hawkeye
Found in our Beginner Lesson SetsThe blues is a distinctly American style of music. Many popular genres such as jazz, rock, and country music draw upon basic blues concepts. Consequently, it is advantageous for any guitarist to study the blues.
Lesson 1
Introduction to Blues
Hawkeye Herman introduces the blues. He explains the 12 bar blues chords and the poetic format that blues lyrics typically follow.
Length: 19:25 Difficulty: 1.0 Members Only
Understanding Blues Chords
Hawkeye explains how the I, IV, and V chords are used in a 12 bar blues progression.
Length: 12:12 Difficulty: 1.0 Members Only
Blues Rhythm
Hawkeye demonstrates common strumming patterns used in blues music. He also explains how country music evolved from the blues.
Length: 19:42 Difficulty: 1.5 Members Only
Intro to the Blues Shuffle
The shuffle is one of the most common rhythms used in blues music. Hawkeye introduces the most basic shuffle rhythm pattern.
Length: 18:12 Difficulty: 1.5 Members Only
More Blues Shuffle
Hawkeye covers the blues shuffle in greater depth.
Length: 13:13 Difficulty: 1.5 Members Only
The Blues Turnaround
Hawkeye introduces and explains a common blues turnaround.
Length: 7:45 Difficulty: 2.0 Members Only
Interesting Blues Turnaround
Hawkeye demonstrates various ways of arpeggiating the blues turnaround from the previous lesson.
Length: 8:08 Difficulty: 2.0 Members Only
Moving the Turnaround
Hawkeye explains how the turnaround from the previous lesson can be transposed to all 12 keys.
Length: 5:57 Difficulty: 2.0 Members Only
Turnaround in the Bass
Hawkeye explains how the blues turnaround can be played on the bass strings.
Length: 11:12 Difficulty: 2.0 Members Only
Turnaround Practice
Hawkeye provides some tips regarding how to integrate turnarounds into the context of the 12 bar blues form.
Length: 3:58 Difficulty: 2.0 Members Only
Turnarounds as Lead
In this lesson Hawkeye will explain how you can use turnarounds as a way to play basic lead.
Length: 0:00 Difficulty: 2.0 Members Only
Subtle Changes
Hawkeye demonstrates how subtle changes made to the blues shuffle can have a profound impact on the overall sound of the 12 bar form.
Length: 7:12 Difficulty: 2.0 Members Only
Blues Shuffle Variations
Hawkeye demonstrates more blues shuffle variations. He discusses playing individual notes and palm muting.
Length: 7:23 Difficulty: 2.0 Members Only
Bass Blues Shuffle
In this lesson, Hawkeye teaches a bass version of the blues shuffle that mimics a common left-hand piano pattern.
Length: 10:49 Difficulty: 2.0 Members Only
Turnaround Exercise
Hawkeye presents an exercise that will enable you to play a turnaround over the blues form in all twelve keys.
Length: 10:44 Difficulty: 2.0 Members Only
Delta Blues Turnaround
Hawkeye teaches a Delta blues turnaround in the key of A. This turnaround is played in the style of Robert Johnson.
Length: 10:45 Difficulty: 2.0 Members Only
Delta Blues Turnaround #2
Hawkeye Herman teaches a new Delta blues turnaround. This lick was inspired by Robert Johnson.
Length: 7:12 Difficulty: 2.0 Members Only
Robert Johnson Style
Hawkeye Herman teaches more components of Robert Johnson's signature sound.
Length: 27:38 Difficulty: 2.0 Members Only
Movable Chords
Hawkeye introduces some common, movable chord shapes.
Length: 17:42 Difficulty: 2.0 Members Only
Movable Chord Review
Hawkeye reviews movable chords in this lesson. He explains how these chord voicings can be used in a practical blues context.
Length: 5:41 Difficulty: 2.0 Members Only
Basic Blues Scale
Hawkeye Herman introduces the minor pentatonic scale in this lesson, the most commonly used scale in blues lead guitar.
Length: 23:54 Difficulty: 2.0 Members Only
Passing Notes
Hawkeye builds on the pentatonic scale. He introduces "blue" notes, which transform the pentatonic scale into the minor blues scale.
Length: 12:50 Difficulty: 2.0 Members Only
Scales and Keys
Hawkeye explains how to transpose the minor pentatonic and minor blues scales to different keys.
Length: 21:18 Difficulty: 2.0 Members Only
Finding the Key
Hawkeye Herman explains how to determine the key of a blues song. This information is essential if you wish to play lead over a song.
Length: 15:31 Difficulty: 2.0 Members Only
Lightnin' Hopkins Style
In this lesson, Hawkeye will bring together much of what he has taught in this lesson series and apply it to the style of Lightnin' Hopkins.
Length: 16:36 Difficulty: 2.0 Members Only
Treble Shuffle
Hawkeye explains how to play the blues shuffle on the treble strings.
Length: 9:22 Difficulty: 2.0 Members Only
The Great River Road
Hawkeye Herman teaches you how to play his original song, "The Great River Road," in this phenomenal lesson.
Length: 16:39 Difficulty: 2.0 Members Only
Mississippi John Hurt Style
Hawkeye covers the guitar style of Mississippi John Hurt. This style makes heavy use of alternating bass lines.
Length: 14:48 Difficulty: 2.0 Members Only
Piano Blues
Hawkeye teaches an original piece called "Piano Blues." He teaches this song to further demonstrate the alternating bass line.
Length: 13:20 Difficulty: 2.5 Members Only
Blues Accompaniment
Hawkeye Herman teaches a beautiful blues accompaniment pattern.
Length: 10:11 Difficulty: 2.5 Members Only
Stop-Time Blues
Hawkeye introduces the stop-time blues rhythm.
Length: 17:21 Difficulty: 2.5 Members Only
Sweet Home Chicago
Hawkeye Herman explains how to play Robert Johnson's "Sweet Home Chicago."
Length: 16:17 Difficulty: 2.5 Members Only
Eight Bar Blues
Hawkeye introduces the eight bar blues progression.
Length: 22:28 Difficulty: 2.0 Members Only
8 Bar Blues Key Transposition
Hawkeye takes the 8 bar blues material from the last lesson and explains how to transpose it to different keys.
Length: 6:39 Difficulty: 0.5 Members Only
Classic 8 Bar Blues
Hawkeye teaches a classic 8 bar blues tune in the style of Brownie McGhee and Big Bill Broonzy.
Length: 25:10 Difficulty: 2.0 Members Only
Playing Multiple Notes
In this lesson Hawkeye revisits the blues/pentatonic scale and talks about playing multiple notes at the same time.
Length: 9:42 Difficulty: 1.5 Members Only
Classic End Tag
Hawkeye Herman teaches a classic blues song ending. He also explains how it can be played in different keys.
Length: 9:42 Difficulty: 2.0 Members Only
Basic Blues Slide
Hawkeye Herman covers the basics of slide technique and provides exercises to demonstrate them.
Length: 25:49 Difficulty: 2.5 Members Only
Slide Guitar and Open D Tuning
Hawkeye Herman introduces open D tuning. He explains how to play a 12 bar blues progression with a slide in this tuning.
Length: 14:56 Difficulty: 2.5 Members Only
Ramblin' On My Mind
Hawkeye Herman demonstrates the classic Robert Johnson song, "Ramblin' On My Mind" in open D tuning.
Length: 8:41 Difficulty: 2.5 Members Only
Blues Shuffle in Open D
Hawkeye explains how to play the blues shuffle in open D tuning.
Length: 0:00 Difficulty: 2.0 Members Only
Open D Harmony Shuffle
Hawkeye teaches the "harmony" version of the shuffle in open D tuning.
Length: 5:15 Difficulty: 2.0 Members Only
Open D Turnaround
Hawkeye teaches a simple blues turnaround in open D tuning.
Length: 9:00 Difficulty: 2.5 Members Only
Open D Slide Licks
Hawkeye Herman teaches some open D slide guitar licks. These licks are inspired by the song "Ramblin' On My Mind" by Robert Johnson.
Length: 8:14 Difficulty: 3.0 Members Only
Pentatonic Scale in Open D
Hawkeye Herman explains how to play the D minor pentatonic scale in Open D tuning.
Length: 4:00 Difficulty: 2.5 Members Only
Ramblin' On My Mind
Hawkeye challenges you to play "Ramblin' On My Mind" using the techniques from the past couple of lessons.
Length: 4:03 Difficulty: 3.0 Members Only
Rock and Slide Guitar
Hawkeye shows that open D tuning and slide guitar are not exclusive to the blues. He provides an exercise that demonstrates how this tuning can be used in rock music.
Length: 15:55 Difficulty: 2.5 Members Only
D Tuning Chords
Hawkeye returns to the world of open D tuning. He introduces various chord voicings and explains how they can be used in the blues.
Length: 10:00 Difficulty: 0.5 Members Only
You Got to Move
In this lesson, Hawkeye teaches a classic blues song by Mississippi Fred McDowell - "You Got to Move."
Length: 9:03 Difficulty: 2.5 Members Only
You Got to Move Melody
Hawkeye Herman demonstrates how to play the melody of "You Got to Move" with a slide.
Length: 6:51 Difficulty: 2.5 Members Only
Slide Guitar and Blues Licks
Hawkeye Herman talks about playing and creating blues licks with the slide.
Length: 9:53 Difficulty: 2.5 Members Only
Elmore James Style
Hawkeye Herman breaks down important aspects of Elmore James' style.
Length: 23:11 Difficulty: 2.5 Members Only
Blues Licks and Riffs
Hawkeye teaches some versatile blues licks and riffs that can be used in open D tuning.
Length: 11:15 Difficulty: 2.5 Members Only
Open G Tuning
Hawkeye Herman teaches the basics of open G tuning.
Length: 7:28 Difficulty: 2.0 Members Only
G Tuning Chords
Hawkeye gives a brief overview of chords and how they are played in open G tuning.
Length: 6:11 Difficulty: 1.5 Members Only
Blues Scale in Open G Tuning
Hawkeye gives a brief rundown of how the blues / minor pentatonic scale can be played in open G tuning.
Length: 4:48 Difficulty: 1.5 Members Only
G Tuning Accompaniment
Hawkeye talks about playing accompaniment using open G tuning.
Length: 7:44 Difficulty: 2.5 Members Only
Improvising in G Tuning
Improvisation using the minor pentatonic / blues scale is discussed in open G tuning. Hawkeye also touches on Robert Johnson's song, "Walkin' Blues."
Length: 7:26 Difficulty: 2.5 Members Only
Open G Shuffle Rhythm
In this lesson, Hawkeye Herman talks about playing the blues shuffle in open G tuning. He also shows some basic turnarounds.
Length: 10:37 Difficulty: 2.5 Members Only
Open G Shuffle Variations
Hawkeye reviews the blues shuffle in open G tuning. He demonstrates shuffle variations as well as a few licks, turnarounds, and other tidbits.
Length: 15:45 Difficulty: 2.5 Members OnlyLesson 61
Robert Johnson Licks
Hawkeye teaches several Robert Johnson licks in this lesson. These licks are played with a slide in open G tuning.
Length: 14:40 Difficulty: 2.5 FREE
G Tuning and the Capo
Hawkeye introduces the capo and explains how it can be used. This lesson is still in the context of G tuning.
Length: 10:28 Difficulty: 2.5 Members Only
Come On In My Kitchen
Hawkeye Herman showcases the power of slide guitar by demonstrating the classic Robert Johnson song, "Come On In My Kitchen."
Length: 6:33 Difficulty: 3.0 Members Only
Skip James Style
Hawkeye Herman gives a brief rundown of Skip James' blues guitar style. This lesson also focuses on playing in open tunings without a slide.
Length: 19:15 Difficulty: 3.0 Members Only
Open D to Open G
Hawkeye demonstrates how to take a song from open D tuning and play it in open G. He uses the song "No Expectations" by the Rolling Stones as an example.
Length: 10:26 Difficulty: 0.5 Members Only
Drop D Tuning
Hawkeye shows you the wonders of drop D tuning and teaches his rendition of "Big Road Blues."
Length: 30:30 Difficulty: 3.0 Members Only
Statesboro Blues
Hawkeye goes over the fantastic song "Statesboro Blues" by Blind Willie McTell in Drop D tuning.
Length: 27:12 Difficulty: 2.5 Members Only
Blind Lemon Jefferson
Hawkeye discusses some history behind the great blues guitarist Blind Lemon Jefferson. He covers the song "Matchbox Blues" to provide an example of his style.
Length: 19:40 Difficulty: 2.0 Members Only
Minor Blues
Hawkeye explains the chord changes used in a minor blues progression.
Length: 12:53 Difficulty: 2.0 Members Only
The Capo
Hawkeye talks about the capo and its many uses.
Length: 22:32 Difficulty: 2.0 Members Only
Song Endings
By user request, Hawkeye shares ideas on how to end songs in this lesson.
Length: 21:26 Difficulty: 2.0 Members Only
Stop Time Blues
In this lesson, Hawkeye Herman returns to the wonderful world of stop-time blues. He teaches a few more ways to play in this glorious style.
Length: 17:53 Difficulty: 0.5 Members Only
Eight Bar Blues
Hawkeye talks about the eight bar blues and uses some classic blues songs as examples.
Length: 26:19 Difficulty: 3.0 Members Only
Blues Mambo
Hawkeye talks all about the blues mambo in this lesson.
Length: 16:09 Difficulty: 2.5 Members Only
Movable Endings
Hawkeye explains how all the endings you've learned up to this point can be transposed to any key.
Length: 31:53 Difficulty: 3.0 Members Only
Movable Blues Scale
Hawkeye talks about transposing the minor pentatonic scale to various keys.
Length: 16:58 Difficulty: 3.0 Members Only
Blues Scale Lead
Hawkeye explains how the blues scale can be used to play lead in any song.
Length: 30:57 Difficulty: 3.0 Members Only
Spanning the Neck
Hawkeye explains how the blues scale can span the neck in any key.
Length: 22:09 Difficulty: 3.5 Members Only
The Blues Had a Baby
Hawkeye talks about the background of rock 'n roll and how it is connected to blues.
Length: 21:42 Difficulty: 2.0 Members Only
Fun Licks
This lesson is filled with fun licks and lick techniques.
Length: 17:32 Difficulty: 3.0 Members Only
Spanning the Neck Continued
Hawkeye brings more blues wisdom to you in this lesson about spanning the neck.
Length: 18:18 Difficulty: 3.0 Members Only
Barre Chords Refresher
Hawkeye provides a few useful tips on playing barre chords.
Length: 13:18 Difficulty: 2.0 Members Only
Chord Relationships
Hawkeye discusses how the visual shapes of chords relate to one another on the fretboard.
Length: 15:06 Difficulty: 3.0 Members Only
Chord Relationships Continued
Hawkeye explains how to find the I, IV, and V chords in all 12 major keys.
Length: 8:43 Difficulty: 3.0 Members Only
Shuffle Rhythm Review
Hawkeye answers member questions on the shuffle rhythm.
Length: 16:19 Difficulty: 2.0 Members Only
Key of A Idea
Hawkeye shares an idea in the key of A that you can apply to your blues playing.
Length: 18:15 Difficulty: 3.0 Members Only
Thumbpick Vs. Flatpick
Thumbpick Vs. Flatpick: A most common question asked among guitarists is discussed in this lesson.
Length: 15:13 Difficulty: 0.5 Members Only
Capo Ideas
Hawkeye shares his ideas on the capo and explains why he thinks it is important for every guitarist to own one.
Length: 18:34 Difficulty: 0.5 Members Only
Everything is Movable
Hawkeye reiterates that everything is movable on the guitar and provides some fresh new ideas.
Length: 12:27 Difficulty: 2.0 Members Only
Bass Notes in Treble
Hawkeye explains how to add variety to the shuffle pattern by transferring the bass notes to the treble register and by adding palm muting. He also explains how you can create your own shuffle variations.
Length: 21:21 Difficulty: 2.0 Members Only
Treble Shuffle
Hawkeye provides more amazing tips and tricks on moving your shuffle rhythm to the treble for a unique sound.
Length: 16:50 Difficulty: 3.0 Members Only
Creating Solos
Hawkeye revisits the techniques learned in the last few lessons and explains how to tie tie them together to create solos.
Length: 9:46 Difficulty: 2.0 Members Only
Transposing Songs
Hawkeye provides some great tips for transposing any song you want to learn to a different key.
Length: 17:31 Difficulty: 3.0 Members Only
History of Blues
This exciting lesson dives into some of the earliest history of blues music and how it has shaped popular music today.
Length: 13:52 Difficulty: 0.5 Members Only
Blues is the Roots
Hawkeye Herman explains why "blues is the roots, and everything else is the fruits."
Length: 8:41 Difficulty: 1.0 Members Only
The Style of Hank Williams
Hawkeye discusses the history and style of Hank Williams.
Length: 17:07 Difficulty: 2.0 Members Only
The Style of Jimmie Rodgers
Hawkeye demonstrates some key aspects of Jimmie Rodgers' style.
Length: 12:30 Difficulty: 2.0 Members Only
Boom-Chicka Strum
Hawkeye demonstrates the "boom-chicka" strum and explains various ways you can incorporate it into your playing.
Length: 22:44 Difficulty: 2.0 Members Only
Fun Runs
Hawkeye Herman explains how to spice up your rhythm playing by incorporating bass runs between chord changes.
Length: 16:20 Difficulty: 2.0 Members Only
Review & Practice
Hawkeye Herman celebrates lesson 100 with a short but sweet review of what you've learned in the past couple of lessons.
Length: 6:51 Difficulty: 2.0 Members Only
Song Medley
Hawkeye Herman demonstrates rhythmic concepts from earlier lessons by playing a fun medley.
Length: 13:08 Difficulty: 2.0 Members Only
Hawkeye's Favorite Licks
Hawkeye shares some of his favorite licks in this lesson.
Length: 22:35 Difficulty: 3.0 Members Only
More Fun Licks
Hawkeye teaches more fun licks to add to your blues bag of tricks.
Length: 31:20 Difficulty: 2.5 Members Only
More Licks Up the Neck
Hawkeye Herman is back with some more classic blues licks that span the length of the fretboard.
Length: 26:20 Difficulty: 2.5 Members Only
Bass Licks
Hawkeye explains the importance of playing licks over the entire neck of the guitar.
Length: 21:33 Difficulty: 2.0 Members Only
Rock Me Lick
Hawkeye Herman shares a lick that is commonly known as the "Rock Me Baby" Lick. He explains how this lick can be incorporated into a performance of this classic B.B. King song.
Length: 19:09 Difficulty: 2.0 Members Only
Turnaround Positions
Hawkeye discusses how ideas derived from turnarounds can be incorporated into blues solos.
Length: 8:19 Difficulty: 2.0 Members Only
Instrumental Themes
Hawkeye Herman talks about instrumental themes and how you can add lead fills to them.
Length: 18:03 Difficulty: 3.0 Members Only
Instrumental Themes Continued
Hawkeye continues his discussion on instrumental themes and blues.
Length: 23:42 Difficulty: 2.5 Members Only
Ninth Chords
Hawkeye Herman explains how dominant 9th chords are formed and how they can be used in blues music.
Length: 15:16 Difficulty: 3.0 Members Only
Ninth Chords Continued
Hawkeye Herman continues his discussion on 9th chords.
Length: 26:52 Difficulty: 2.5 Members Only
More Eight Bar Blues
Hawkeye Herman shares more eight bar blues knowledge in this fun and information-packed lesson.
Length: 23:57 Difficulty: 2.5 Members Only
Using a Tuner
Hawkeye shares his thoughts on tuners in this lesson.
Length: 6:38 Difficulty: 0.5 Members Only
Introducing the Capo
In the 114th installment of his Blues Series, Hawkeye introduces the capo. He demonstrates how this valuable tool allows you to transpose chord voicings to various keys.
Length: 23:21 Difficulty: 2.5 Members Only
Forming Barre Chords
Having trouble getting those fingers to form barre chords? In lesson #115 of his Blues Series, Hawkeye covers some tips and techniques to help with these problematic chord shapes. Any beginner can master...
Length: 10:03 Difficulty: 2.5 Members Only
4 Up, 5 Down Applied Concept
Hawkeye explains why the adjacent strings on the guitar are tuned in perfect fourths and how this relates to left hand fingering.
Length: 18:44 Difficulty: 3.0 Members Only
Relative Chord Shapes
Hawkeye continues where he left off in lesson 116 and explains how the tuning of the guitar relates to commonly used chord shapes.
Length: 16:43 Difficulty: 2.0 Members Only
Transposing Notes / Changing the Key
Hawkeye Herman reviews important transposition concepts. Here he demonstrates how to change the key of a song so that it is appropriate for your vocal range.
Length: 20:31 Difficulty: 3.0 Members Only
All About Finger Picking
Hawkeye takes a look at this important right hand technique.
Length: 20:54 Difficulty: 3.0 Members Only
Bo Diddley Beat
Hawkeye provides a history lesson on Bo Diddley. He also demonstrates how to play the classic "Bo Diddley Beat." This rhythmic pattern appears in countless blues and rock songs.
Length: 20:15 Difficulty: 2.0 Members Only
Thematic Bass Lines
Hawkeye teaches some blues bass lines that can be applied to the twelve bar blues form.
Length: 19:04 Difficulty: 2.5 Members Only
Bass Lines Continued
Hawkeye continues on from his 121st lesson with more examples of blues bass lines for guitar.
Length: 7:14 Difficulty: 2.5 Members Only
Lead Bass Ideas
Hawkeye dives into some lead bass ideas. He demonstrates how a classic Eric Clapton riff can be used over the twelve bar blues form in any key.
Length: 12:57 Difficulty: 3.0 Members Only
Willie's Bounce
Hawkeye teaches the bass line riff to his song "Willie's Bounce."
Length: 16:31 Difficulty: 3.0 Members Only
Finger Picking Part 2
Hawkeye continues his discussion on finger picking.
Length: 12:27 Difficulty: 3.0 Members Only
The Texas A
Hawkeye Herman teaches a version of the A chord that he calls "The Texas A."
Length: 13:59 Difficulty: 3.0 Members Only
Blues Scale: Adding the Major 3rd
Hawkeye breaks down the blues scale and demonstrates how to appropriately add the major 3rd.
Length: 26:16 Difficulty: 3.0 Members Only
Double Stops
As demonstrated in previous lessons, Hawkeye opens up the world of double stops. Hawkeye teaches some classic Chuck Berry licks to demonstrate how double stops can be used effectively.
Length: 11:53 Difficulty: 2.5 Members Only
Scrapper Blackwell
Hawkeye introduces the guitar stye of Scrapper Blackwell. He uses the song Scrapper called "E Blues" as a starting point.
Length: 20:46 Difficulty: 2.5 Members Only
Influence of Blind Lemon Jefferson
History flows deep in blues music. Hawkeye discusses the influence of Blind Lemon Jefferson. This lesson is one for the history books.
Length: 22:43 Difficulty: 2.0 Members Only
Humming and Strumming
Hawkeye opens up some ideas on how to "plan ahead" in your playing. Similar to riding a bike, you need to look forward to see where your going. Humming what you want to play allows you to anticipate the...
Length: 18:49 Difficulty: 4.0 Members Only
Katrina, Oh Katrina
Inspired by the tragedy of Hurricane Katrina, Hawkeye was commissioned by the BBC to write a song about Katrina. Hawkeye demonstrates this song and recalls his thought process in writing this song.
Length: 29:53 Difficulty: 3.0 Members Only
All About the Hammer-on
Hawkeye demonstrates how a hammer-on can be used to open up doors in your playing. Hawkeye shows you how to achieve this technique and use it successfully in your playing.
Length: 24:07 Difficulty: 3.0 Members Only
The Pull-off
Hawkeye covers the pull-off, best friend of the hammer on. This technique is used to achieve the same goal as the hammer-on, yet with a completely different finger movement.
Length: 15:02 Difficulty: 3.0 Members Only
Using Hammer-ons and Pull-offs Together
Hawkeye combines lessons 133 and 134 and demonstrates some examples of how to utilize the hammer-on and pull-off techniques together to enhance your overall blues guitar skills.
Length: 10:27 Difficulty: 3.5 Members Only
The Quick Change
The 12 bar form is a staple in the world of blues music. However, there are plenty of different ways to arrange it. This lesson covers what is commonly called "The Quick Change."
Length: 15:15 Difficulty: 2.0 Members Only
Starting on the IV Chord
Hawkeye demonstrates how to change up a traditional 12 bar blues progression by starting on the IV chord.
Length: 16:51 Difficulty: 2.5 Members Only
The Talking Blues
Hawkeye demonstrates yet another form of blues known as the "Talking Blues." This style is indicative of its name. It features a talking vocal style played over a I, IV, V chord progression.
Length: 24:43 Difficulty: 4.0 Members Only
Utilizing 9th Chords
Need a slightly different voicing to spice up your playing? 9th chords will give your blues playing a colorful, urban sound.
Length: 24:53 Difficulty: 3.5 Members Only
Minor Tuning, Major Sound
Hawkeye breaks out his slide and demonstrates how chord progressions in major keys can be played in open minor tunings.
Length: 4:43 Difficulty: 1.0 Members Only
Style of Elmore James
Hawkeye offers up some tricks and techniques that Elmore James utilized in his style of playing.
Length: 25:52 Difficulty: 3.5 Members Only
Style of Son House
In lesson 142, Hawkeye dives into the style of Son House. House pioneered an innovative style featuring strong, repetitive rhythms often played with a slide.
Length: 14:32 Difficulty: 3.5 Members Only
About Hawkeye Herman
View Full Biography
""One of America's finest acoustic guitarists and blues educators."
Cascade Blues Association
"Herman plays with a sensitive, reflective touch that continually draws
attention to his vocals, which are effectively understated and free of
affectation... Herman can rock with the best of them. A solid choice for fans of
traditional acoustic blues."
Living Blues Magazine
" ...plays haunting music on a mournful guitar."
Los Angeles Times
"The only thing better than hearing this live album is seeing Hawkeye Herman
in the flesh. Whether adding his own spin to blues classics or offering his
own songs, Herman is a one-man history of blues, noteworthy guitar player and
inimitable communicator. Miss him at your peril."
Blues Access
With over 40 years of performing experience, Michael "Hawkeye" Herman
personifies the range of possibilities in blues and folk music. His dynamic blues
guitar playing and vocal abilities have won him a faithful following and he leads
a very active touring schedule of performances at festivals, concerts, school
programs and educational workshops throughout the U.S., Canada, and Europe.
His original music has been included in video dramas and documentaries and in
four hit theatrical productions.
In 2000, Hawkeye was awarded Philadelphia's
Barrymore Award for Excellence in Theatre for best original music in a
theatrical production. "Everyday Living," Hawkeye's first nationally released album
from 1987, now reissued on CD, features the late blues giants Charles Brown and
"Cool Papa" Sadler, and established the demand for his now long-standing
festival and concert touring. His latest CDs and DVD, "Blues Alive!" (CD), "It's
All Blues To Me" (CD), and "Hawkeye Live In Concert" (DVD) have been greeted
with rave reviews. Hawkeye's journalistic efforts have been published in numerous
national and regional blues and music-related periodicals.
In 1998 he was the
recipient of the Blues Foundation's "Keeping The Blues Alive" award for
achievement in education. He served on the Board of Directors of the Blues
Foundation for six years. Hawkeye was inducted into the Iowa Blues Hall of fame in
2004. In September of 2005, Hawkeye composed, at the request of the British
Broadcasting Company (BBC), "Katrina, Oh Katrina (Hurricane Blues)," detailing the
hurricane disaster on the Gulf Coast. The song was aired to over 7 million
listeners on the popular "BBC Today" program. He is the cofounder of the Rogue
Valley Blues Festival, Ashland, OR.
This musician has definitely carved out a
spot for himself in the contemporary acoustic blues/folk field, and has earned a
reputation as one of the most accomplished artists in the genre, and
audiences throughout the US/Canada/Europe have come to know and appreciate Hawkeye's
talent, dedication, and captivating performances.
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Our acoustic guitar lessons are taught by qualified instructors with various backgrounds with the instrument.
Jessica Baron
Jessica kindly introduces herself, her background, and her approach to this series.
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Eve talks about the boom-chuck strum pattern. This strum pattern will completely change the sound of your playing.
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Trace Bundy
Trace Bundy talks about the different ways you can use multiple capos to enhance your playing.
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In this lesson Randall introduces the partial capo (using a short-cut capo by Kyser) and talks about how it can make the...
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Mark Lincoln
Time to unlock your creativity because in this information packed lesson. Mark dives deep into how to deconstruct the process...
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Mark Kroos
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Lesson 7 is all about arpeggios. Danny provides discussion and exercises designed to build your right hand skills.
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Miche introduces several new chord concepts that add color and excitement to any progression.
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Brad Henecke
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Chris Liepe
Chris brings his ingenuity to this lesson on the American folk song called "Where Did You Sleep Last Night?" Also known as...
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DJ Phillips
Learn a handful of new blues techniques while learning to play Stevie Ray Vaughn's "The House Is Rockin'".
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James Malone
James explains how to tap arpeggios for extended musical reach.
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Mark Brennan
Mark Brennan teaches this classic rock song by Jethro Tull. Released on the album of the same name in 1971, this song features...
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David Wallimann
This is a crucial lesson that explains tablature, how to read it, and why it's important.
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Dennis Hodges
Learn a variety of essential techniques commonly used in the metal genre, including palm muting, string slides, and chord...
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Emil Werstler
Emil takes you through some techniques that he uses frequently in his style of playing. Topics include neck bending, percussive...
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Kris Norris
Kris analyzes different pick sizes and their effect on his playing. Using a slow motion camera, he is able to point out the...
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Nick Greathouse
Nick starts his series with Alternate Picking part 1. Improve your timing, speed, and execution with this important lesson.
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Member Comments about this Lesson
Discussions with our instructors are just one of the many benefits of becoming a member of JamPlay.Hello Hawkeye, I am enjoying your lessons so much. I have two questions here in this shuffle lesson: 1- Barring chords on the fifth and sixth string, you play them with index barring all 6 strings. I tend to barre only the top five strings (A shape barre) with index while muting the 6 with the tip of my index. Now, does the way you play it make it easier for some reason? should we follow the way you barre? 2- Also, reaching for the 6th note with a barre with the pinky is a long stretch. I fret the 5th note with the middle finger (instead of the ring finger), and reach the 6th note with the pinky. That move is a lot easier. Again, what do you think? should I keep practicing the way you finger those chords? Thanks again, and I apologise if the questions seemed to be silly innature. Aluchi
Greetings, Al. I barre using my index finger. I don’t mute the 6th string with the tip of my finger ... I want/need the note that is on the 6th string to sound clearly and be a part of the chord. You should make a barre chord the proper way, as it is shown in chord diagrams. Look in the ‘supplemental content’ folder under this lesson and click on the secon A and B chrods and you’ll see how a barre chord is supposed to me made. Be sure to check the ‘supplemental content’ folder that accompanies each lesson for print-outs and information on the chords and notes played in each lesson. Please try doing things the way they are exeplified in the ‘supplemental content’ pages. If you cannot, then yiou must resort to your own methods/means.
Hi Hawkeye, may be I was not clear in my questions. You only responded to one part though, and didn't answer the second question! (about the fingering for reaching the 6th note when barring). @8:31 in the second scene of lesson 4, you were playing the B barre at the second fret with the index covering all 6 strings. So I asked if this way is easier than barring covering only the top 5 strings and mute the low E. Thanks again
Hi Hawkeye, may be I was not clear in my questions. You only responded to one part though, and didn't answer the second question! (about the fingering for reaching the 6th note when barring). @8:31 in the second scene of lesson 4, you were playing the B barre with the index covering all 6 strings. So I asked if this way is easier than barring covering only the top 5 strings and mute the low E. Thanks again
Please look at this information: http://www.guitarchordsmagic.com/basic-guitar-chords/guitar-bar-chords-2.html ... in order to play the shuffle rhythm using the B barre chord you need to hold down the 5th string at the second fret and the 4th string at the 4th fret, and then reaching to the 6th fret on the 4th string with your pinky. I play with me index finger across all 6th strings and mute the 6th string ... if it's easier for you to only fret the top 5 strings with your index finger, then do it that way. Cheers, Hawkeye
Thanks Hawkeye. Really liked the lesson and feel like I'm getting somewhere. I also remember "old" radio in the late 60s. I grew up in Indiana/Illinois and getting all those stations from all those places late at night just made the world seem so magical. Look how far we've come!
Well, you're not as ancient as I am ;-) ... but I'm sure the radio played an important part in your early musical listening and tastes ... as well as provide you a sense of 'magic' about/for far off places. ;-) I hope you continue to enjoy these lessons.
Hawkeye yur lessons are killer my man!! I love the blues and the way you teach, your enthusiasm and mastery of the genre, is second to none. Tthankyou!
Thanks so much, Jack. Much appreciated. Follow my lessons in the order they are presented and I believe you'll gain a strong foundation in and understanding of blues guitar that will allow you to play and create/improvise freely. There are free lessons at my web site: http://hawkeyeherman.com/guitar-lessons.htm ... and you can see how I use the techniques I teach when I'm performing by watching any/all of the videos here: http://www.youtube.com/profile?user=HawkeyeH&view=videos ... try to play along with me, and steal some of my licks/riffs ;-). I hope you continue to enjoy 'traveling' with me on the 'blues highway' here at JamPlay.com. Thanks again for taking the time to let me know you're enjoying these lessons.
"I'm going to count to 4 and turn this into rock and roll," haha! Hawkeye, you're the man!
Thanks, Josh. It ain't no joke ... 'The blues had a baby and they called it rock 'n' roll.' :-) I hope you continue to enjoy these lessons.
Hawkeye you the man, and I loves me some Chuck Berry, glad you through him in the lesson.
Thanks so much, Joseph. Chuck Berry was, of course, very influential ... definitely a 'father of rock 'n' roll via songwriting and guitar playing and wonderful recordings. I hope you'll follow these lessons in the order they are presented (don't skip around ;-), and over time, with practice/repetition and patience, you'll be playing the blues freely on your own ... including Chuck Berry licks ... by gaining strong understanding and foundation in blues music ... one step/lesson at a time. I hope you continue to enjoy these lessons. Thanks again for 'traveling' with me on the 'blues highway' here at JamPlay.com.
Hawkeye, I am having trouble with transition from the B cord to the A or the A cord to the E where you have that little up strum when changing cords. You have never addressed this move in your lessons that I can find. I worked on the timing of this for a long time and I think I got it ,but the move seems so simple. If you could explain this move I would be greatly thankful. I have studied alot of your lessons and like them very much.
Thanks for enjoying these lessons, and for your question, Steve. Can you please tell me at what section of the lesson you are having a problem by telling me where in the lesson this happens ... please give me the exact minutes/seconds ... from ___min ___ secs. to ___ min. ___ secs. ... and I'll try to answer your question. Thanks for your patience.
Thanks for your reply. I first saw this move at 1:53 going from A to E, then at 1:58 going from E to B, at 2:01 going from B to A, and at 2:03 from A to E. It is the full strum when you change cords. It looks very simple to do but I cant figure out the timing. I have checked alot of your other lessons thinking you will explain this move in another lesson but I have not found it . You may think it is too simple to explain. You do play different from the supplemental content. I really like the sound but I cannot get the steps. I do not play by ear very well. If I saw it written down I could see what is going on. I have worked on this for a long time. So long I dont want to tell you. I hope I have explained this well enough. I have picked up on all of your other lessons at least knowing what to do. It must be a mental block that I cant get it. Thanks for your help.
Steve, thanks so much for taking the time to isolate the 'issue' you're having a problem with ... I have not addressed this aspect of my playing ... sorry ... it's just second nature to me to include the upstroke that you're seeing hearing ... it's happening on the 'and' of the 4 beat ... in the shuffle rhythm we're counting: /one, and/two, and/ three, and/four, and/ ... or: dah-dah/dah-dah/dah-dah/dah-dah ... so, instead of playing the 'and of the 4 beat as a downstroke, just play a brushing upstroke in that same 'and of the beat spot. I hope this make sense to you and that you succeed, with practice ;-0, in accomplishing this technique. If you just can't get it, then just play the 'and' of the 4th beat as a downstroke ... and let this feeling/slight modification come to you more naturally at a later time ... and don't get so hung up in copying exactly what I do ... ;-) ... in other words, don't let this little variation stop you from progressing with these lessons. I hope you continue to travel with me on the 'blues highway' here at JamPlay.com.
I love this lesson! Just got my barre chords down in the last couple of months so it adds practice for them too. The B is a bit of a stretch but not quite so bad at the 7th fret... and stretching is good practice too anyway :) Thanks Hawkeye!
Thank you for the kind comments. I'm happy to know that you're enjoying these lessons and progressing to your satisfaction at your own speed. Practice those barre chords ...:-) ... they become easier as you practice, exercise, and stretch those muscles. I hope you continue to enjoy these lessons.
A Shuffle a Day Keeps the Doctors Away... alan
Can I quote you on that. ;-)
Absolutely...100 %...Yes...I'd be honoured Hawkeye :)
The B chord is impssible
Here are the B chord inks that did not appear in my post, for some reason ... http://www.jamplay.com/guitar-chords/b-major-guitar-chord.html ... and ... http://www.instantguitarist.com/guitar-chords/b-chord-guitar
"Impossible" ... possibly because it's new to you and you're running out of patience with yourself? Is there a race to the finish line in creating a B chord? ... no ... there's no race ... you practice this until you get it. Here's the B chord: ... and here ...Barre chords are almost like the cheats way to play any chord on the guitar without having to remember all those different fingerings in the open position. The hard part however is getting used to using your index finger to press down on all the strings… forming a bar… Trust me, once you learn to make barre chords using the first position E and A chords shapes ... you will have opened up a whole field of guitar playing you never knew existed. Practice, and enjoy the process of learning and improving ... incrementally ... everyone who plays the guitar was/is faced with learning this chord. ;-) Thanks for being here at JamPlay.com.
I don't no where your at now but i can't even find my plastic thumb pick now. I have 10 minutes left here.so i'm going back to the turnarounds where i'm at now.I finally got back in order here but when i get upgrade I'll be able to go in and out all i want and the lessons will be here.I can't beat this deal because we all know that the guy who gives lessons in person in the back of the music store charges $100.00 for 5 hrs and that is high.That's why those guys don't get the business.
You can't beat JamPlay.com for the price, variety of high quality instructors, many styles being taught, and convenience. ;-)
I'm back there wasn't a thumb pick to be found @musician's friend.com which really surprises me. Unless i overlooked all i found was flat picks.Any how grandpa_erik sent a really nice christmas card in my e-mail. Ok i guess maybe i'll find one somewere.
http://www.elderly.com/accessories/items/PK3.htm
I finally got in order here.I gotta check mail and stuff. Boy they made puzzle out of myspace.I hate going there anymore. I check my mail and update and i get out of there.It's too disorganized for me but i'll be back . I gotta check e-mail and stuff and why i'm out there i'm gonna take a quick look on musician's friend.com an c if they got dat thumb pick.
I don't really have time to respond at the various social networking sites, just responding here at JAmPlay.com and via my web site (www.HawkeyeHerman.com) takes up my time .... so please do not message me at myspace.com or at reverbnation.com. Thanks!
As a matter a fact how much is it? I haven't checked the price yet .I wanna set up so i can come here any time want . I'm sure it would be alot less than buying dvds .
http://www.elderly.com/accessories/items/PK3.htm
yah your right you can tell i already have gaps thats why ive been going back .I jumped up to places where i actually have been on my own but the gaps are were i need to fill in .Sorry about that i just know there isn't much time.I was gonna actually jump up farther and look at the tabliture because this is my last trial day but i don't wanna jump the gun.
I love this it tells me what these chords are that i have been basically playing by the sound of my ears.This is great.
Please stick with the 'program' of following these lessons in the order they are presented and many pieces of the 'blues puzzle' will fall into place for you ... I've given a lot of thought and planning as to the order and content of each lesson ... if you follow these lessons in the order they are presented you'll gain a strong foundation and understanding of blues guitar ... with few holes/gaps in your knowledge ... skip around amongst these lessons and you'll still learn a lot ... but there will be gaps in your knowledge/foundation. I hope you continue to travel with me on the 'blues highway' here at JamPlay.com.
Hi there! I wasn't really in the mood to learn today and was just plodding around the site. Then I came across you and watched for a while. Your teaching method and your happy, smiling face cheered me up so much. So now I've been sitting here for hours with my guitar and having a great time. I love that 'shuffle' but couldn't do it because my finger would never reach that fourth fret. Now you've shown me how to play it further up, I got it. Yippee. Bedtime now here in the UK but I'll certainly be back with you tomorrow.
Thanks for the comments and kind words, Chrissie. Very much appreciated. I enjoy what I do ... I think that's obvious ... ;-) ... and I've given a lot of thought and planning as to the order and content of these lessons. Follow the lessons in the order they are presented, be patient with yourself, use the video controls to repeat anything you don't understand as many times as necessary until you 'get it' ... and you'll gain an understanding/strong foundation in blues guitar that will serve you for a lifetime. I hope you continue to enjoy these lessons. Thanks again for taking the time to leave me your kind words.
Hawkeye: your love of this is infectious...great job of your personality coming thru in your lessons. Kinda hard for us beginners to keep up with you and 12 bar blues lessons when you use barre chords without taking much to show us what or how that is done. I can do it, but none of what you seem to be doing is in tabs or music...is it? Look forward to more of your good stuff.
Thanks for enjoying these lessons. Can you tell that I love what I do? :-) This is Phase Two (Intermediate) ... I do teach some info about barre chords in this series ... but if you need help with barre chords you should 'refresh' that information in the Phase One area ... however, if you're patient and stick with my lessons here in the order they are presented ... you'll be progressing very quickly ... much quicker than you might expect ... just remember ... crawl before you walk, and walk before you run. Thanks again for your kind comments and for enjoying theses lessons. Shuffle on!
Excellent teacher and excellent content. If your entire lesson set were on sale, it would cost hundreds of dollars. What I particularly like is the smooth easy progression of the lessons from one to the next. Great foundation and grounding in the blues.
Thanks so much for your kind comments, Graham. Very much appreciated. Yes, the amount of material that is in my lessons here at JamPlay.com would fill about twenty + DVDs that are 2-hours in length each ... at the average cost of one 2 hour DVD lesson of $20 per disc, the entire collection of my lessons here at JamPlay.com would cost upwards of $400 for the entire set ... and more lessons are on the way. I have given a great deal of thought and plannig to the order and content of this lessons series, and I most gratified to know that you recognize the fact that these lessons should be taken one at a time in the order presented. Of course, you can jump around and skip lessons if you wish and still learn a lot about playing blues guitar. But if you want a thorough understanding and a strong foundation in blues guitar, stick with the lessons in the order they are presented. Be patient ... there's no rush ... this is not a 'blues race to the finish line' ... there is no 'race' and there is no 'finish line.' This is an expressive art form, not a race. We all learn at our own speed. I hope you continue to enjoy these lessons and the process of practicing and improving ... at your own speed. Again, thanks so much.
Oh, My Gawd, I have found my heart in this. I have completed the introduction series with Steve, and have started here with your lessons, Hawkeye. I have been taking lessons for a year and a half with an excellent studio musician, learning a lot of theory, etc. BUT BLUES ARE WHERE MY HEART IS.... You are a fabulous teacher, and I was thrilled to hear that for many , visual instruction is the best. I am one of those!!! Sure looking forward to this.....Thankyou again.
Thanks so much for your kind comments. "The blues is the roots, and everything else is the fruits." I'm so glad you've 'found yourself' in the blues. I hope you'll follow these lessons in the order they are presented. Be patient with yourself, don't rush or 'pressure' yourself move on before you're ready. I hope you continue to enjoy these lessons and the process of learning/practicing/playing ... forever. :-). Again, thanks so much for the kind words.
Your an excellent teacher. thank you
Thanks so much for the kind comment and for enjoying these lessons. Stick with the 'program' as presented here, be patient with yourself, practice along with me using the video controls, and on your own, and you'll be playing the blues for sooner than you might expect. Again, thanks so much.
Hawkeye--thank a lot. I have been working diligently on this lesson--it's great and how to play up the neck is starting to fall into place for me. I'm stoked on the blues now and your lessons are great!
The forum/posts have a lot of information, and be sure to note that there's more than just one page of them, there's a lot of information, and it's always growing: http://www.jamplay.com/forums/forumdisplay.php?f=31
Thaks, Ed. This is just the beginning. I predict you're going to learn a lot traveling with me on the 'blues highway.' Be sure to look in the form/posts area here at jamplay,com under my name ... there's a lot of supplemental information about my thumbpick choice, techniques, history, and questions/threads that others have started in the quest for more blues information. Thanks again. Keep shuffling. Pretty soon you'll be learning how to play blues lead guitar all over the neck. You may not think so now, but believe me, stick with the program as presented, and you're going to have some blues guitar skills that you'll build on and (I hope) you'll cherish forever.
Hey Hawkeye! Like so many others that have posted, I'm really struggling with the reach from the 2nd to the 6th fret (B chord) and currently the barred alternate versions are just as difficult and just as painful. I've read through the comments and a couple of folks have mentioned hand size and you replied that you had pretty big hands (I think I read somewhere that Hendrix had huge hands, too). That got me to thinking: Is there any kind of standard that would be considered an advantage regarding hand size and guitar playing? I'm pretty tall so I would think I would have big hands but MAN it hurts to span four frets! Just curious really--let me know if some ideal does in fact exist among music physiologists, ha ha. Oh,yeah--and I've never posted on Jamplay before so I just want to say that I really like your relaxed, conversational teaching style. It makes going through the lessons a lot more enjoyable when it seems like the instructor is having fun, too. Also, very cool that you met and learned from so many blues icons. Jamplay has proved to be an incredible value and I'm glad you're involved. Given that you have like 75 lessons or so available and I'm currently stuck on Lesson 4 (!!!) I probably have at least a lifetime worth of material left to cover. As Colette said, "You will do foolish things, but do them with enthusiasm," right?
Thanks for taking the time to leave your comments and questions. I'm glad you're enjoying these lessons … very much appreciated. As far as playing barre chords and the shuffle … have you tried the barred E/F shaped chord at the seventh fret for the B chord? This might be easier. Here's my advice/opinion to everyone who might wonder about these issues about barre chords, the 'pinky reach' up four frets, and the shuffle rhythm up the neck … The guitar is not your enemy … The guitar is your friend … I don't know if there's a 'perfect size' hand' for playing the guitar … there are a number of neck lengths, ya know? … what I do know is that the guitar was made to be played by HUMAN HANDS … your 'friend' the guitar sits in the corner and waits for you endlessly … for you to pick it up and spend just a few minutes with it … my wife is my best friend for almost 40 years … but she does not sit in a corner and wait for me to give her attention … while you're doing other things in your life, your guitar sits in the corner and waits … your not going to have a better friend than that … pick up the guitar and start making adjustments to the arc of your fretting hand and getting your elbow out and away from you side … and work on it … little by little, don't 'hurt' yourself ... don't look at the clock, look at the neck of the guitar :-) and enjoy the process, regardless of how long it takes to get it right … please don't judge yourself by how long it takes you to learn something … just practice and enjoy what you're doing, don't make it a stressful experience … play the blues the best you can, and you'll get better … that's what ‘guitar players’ do … they practice … and practice … until they get it right … they don't kick themselves about having to repeat something a million times to get it 'right' nor complain about having small hands relative to some famous player who didn't pick up the guitar in the first place because people said to them "You should play the guitar, you've got big hands!" … they played/play because they were destined/wanted to play, regardless of their relative finger length to other humans … if a person has got smaller hands than Dolly Parton (and even with small hands and very long fingernails she can make barre chords) or the great classical player Leona Boyd … or the excellent Latina player/performer Charro (she's and excellent guitar player all over the neck) … all three of these lovely women are very small in stature, in some cases, barely 5ft. tall, and somehow they've managed to learn to sit and patiently adjust their arm/elbow, arc of their fretting hand, and placement of their fingers in order to make barre chords and to stretch their pinky four frets above where their index is … this is not a 'sexist' opinion … it applies to men, too … Willie Nelson is a little guy with fairly small hands, he does fine playing a shuffle rhythm up the neck, and so do hundreds of thousands of other male pickers with 'small hands' … the 'magic' is in the practice and willingness to fidget with ones fingers and arm until you can do it … even if it takes the rest of your life … that's what guitar players do … and it's much cheaper than hitting expensive golf balls into the water for the rest of your life … regardless of your progress. Again, thanks so much for enjoying my lessons here at jamplay.com. It took me a year, when I was a teenager, to get the barre chords down so they wouldn't buzz, and playing a blues shuffle up the neck took almost another year … I was on my own with just a few books … no teacher, no input … no Internet … just me a my best friend the guitar … struggling to make music together regardless of the bumps in the road and time that passed … relax and enjoy correcting yourself until you get it … it's worth it … I think you know why I'm so enthusiastic and upbeat in my lessons … I play the guitar to have fun … playing, teaching, and learning … I get to spend a lot of quality time with my wife and my 'other best friend.' Keep working on it, don’t be discouraged ... YOU CAN DO IT ... I hope you coninue to enjoy these lessons with me here at jamplay.com and and learning and enjoying playing blues guitar.
I was just about to talk about chapter 4 and getting that Bchord when i found that you hawkeye have already given a great answer for it. I find this difficult too dong the B note, and on the 7th fret too. Its funny, i first learned guitar back in 1995 and although i learnt the open chords afterjust a few months, it did tale me a further year to master barre chords, practicing 4-5 hours a day and i didn't think i'd ever get it, but i did. Funny thing now is, i haven't plcked up my guitar for 5 years, and although the open chords came back to me quickly, i'm now in the same position with the barre chords again, funny how things work out!! Yes i feel disheartened cos i cannot let myself go past chapter 4 until i'm able to do that B chord, and your words to that other user were so inspiring.
Thanks for your comments ... and for understanding the need to ... slow down ... crawl before you walk ... and walk before you run ... don't put pressure on yourself so much that you aren't enjoying where you're at ... you'll get it ... be patient with yourself. And, yes, I appreciate your recognizing that my posted comments/response are there for everyone to share and learn from. Thanks so much for enjoying these lessons. :-)
I recently filmed many hours of new lessons at jamplay.com ... and I included a lesson on the 'stretch' with the pinky. Please keep an eye out for it.
what i do is take my first finger and put it on the 2nd fret A string and my third finger on the d string and with my fourth finger i hammer on to the 6th fret...i have really small hands and it helps
hey hawkeye i got really into the rythm.... its infectious just how u said it
Would I lie to you? Certainly not about blues music. :-) Rock on!
Great lesson, lots of fun. We are probably the same age and I am just picking up the guitar - love the blues (not working so it fits). Between Arthritis and tendonitis no mater what I try my hand can not stretch between the barred 5th and the 7th and 9th. Could it be that I using a classic guitar? Any suggestions? I've tried the stretching, but I have had carpal tunnel surgery on it. Maybe I should give up the blues. Thanks
By the way, James. It might be quite helpful and encouraging for you to read the comments made by others about this lesson. You're not the "Lone Ranger" ... this is a very basic challenge that you can accomplish ... and will feed your guitar playing forever.
Hi, James. Thanks for the message and for enjoying these lessons. I've got about 7 years on ya ... I'm an even older f*rt than you:-) The classical guitar with nylon strings should be easier to play/fret than a steel string guitar, like I use, not harder ... steel strings are much harder to press down on than nylon strings ... don't expect to be able to do this stretch right away ... how many weeks and hours do you think it took me to be able to learn/do this in 1958, at age 13? ... on a really crummy steel string guitar with the strings about 1" off the fingerboard ... it was hard, and it hurt ;-). but I hung in there and eventually got it because I love the sound and the blues ... (and I eventually got a better guitar) ... you need to get the elbow of your fretting hand/arm out and away from your body, not in close, and adjust your fretting hand/fingers so that your hand is more above the fingerboard so that you can make the stretch. Having your elbow close to your body is a hinderance to playing the guitar. You can do this. Just be patient with yourself. Also, this is very good therapy for your carpal tunnel issues. Take your time, crawl before you walk, walk before you run. Enjoy the process of learning and progressing without placing time limits on how fast you learn. This is not a competition, this is an an art form ... don't make yourself feel limited. And by the way, blues music is not depressing :-(, blues music is about the true facts of life, good/bad/happy/sad and freeing yourself from 'worldly concerns' by lifting your spirit though music. I hope this information is helpful to you and that you hang in there and don't demand instant gratification just because I make it look easy. After all, I've been playing the guitar since you were about 7 years old. :-) This is not difficult, it just takes patience and a willingness to put in the time necessary to train your brain what to tell your fingers where to go, and for your fingers to 'get the message' and cooperate/respond ... and the rewards ... when you get it right ... last a lifetime. Hang in there. Please do let me know how the adjustments I've recommended work for you ... or not. Thanks again for being here at jamplay.com.
Great lesson, Hawkeye! Workong hard on the blues shuffle, and getting that stretch down. Man, I now can see that you really use and extend muscles that you never realize you use. i can really feel it in my left wrist, but every day I practice it gets more comfortable.
David, Thanks for the message. Yep, ya gotta practice and stretch and train those muscles, just like in any 'sport.' ... it gets easier the more you do it ... and more fun, too. I hope you continue to enjoy these lessons.
Hello Hawkeye - I have been playing guitar for years and am told I am a pretty good guitarist - mainly jazz. You are a great teacher as I am wanting to get back to blues, as next year I want to busk in France (I live in Switzerland) on my holidays. One thing which is confusing to me is when you play in the key of E you play an E dominant 7th as the tonic ie without a major 7th note. It sounds great. Is it ok to play a dominant 7th as a tonic. You are a great teacher I just love your enthusiasm.
Fred, Thaks so much for enjoying these lessons and my style of teaching. I love blues guitar, I guess you can tell, and I enjoy sharing what I know with others. Yes, you can play dom. seventh chords ... you said what I'm doing sounds good to your ear ... so then it's good ... since there are only two kinds of music ... good and bad ... I play dom. seventh chords a lot in blues music throughout ... with all three chords ... whenever I feel like it ... if it sound good ... I do it. If you watch my video performances here: http://www.youtube.com/profile?user=HawkeyeH&view=videos you'll see me use many techniques I teach here at jamplay,.com when I'm performing in concerts and at festivals. I may be in Europe again next year ... possibly at festivals in in Sierre or Paris. Keep an eye out for me. Again, thanks for enjoying these lessons.
Hello Hawkeye! I've just started this blues journey with you and nailed your previous lessons in two days. This is the first point where I've had any difficulty, and you can probably guess what I'm going to say.... I can't reach that B chord on the shuffle. I have no problem going from E to A. So, here's my question: the only way I'm going to be able to do it (I have very small hands) is by playing the barre chords. I'm a lot slower changing between E and barre A but I'm sure the speed will come with practice. Will the fact that I can't make this stretch cause me problems later in the course? Or will I always be able to get round this lack of reach using barre chords? Thanks very much.
ricardoflynn, Thanks for the comments and for enjoying these lessons. Everything comes with practice. You're going to have to learn to make that stretch eventually if you want to 'get around' on the guitar. Millions of guitar players have 'small hands' ... Leona Boyd (classical) and Dolly Parton have smaller hands than yours I bet, and they can make all the barre chords. Also, as I've stated previously (this question is asked frequently) ... you need to get the elbow of your fretting hand out and away from your body, not pulled in next to your waist, and bring your fretting hand more up and over the fingerboard to get more distance when playing barre chords, and in general. I hope this helps. Keep trying, do what you can, and you'll get better. If you avoid difficulties you won't 'defeat' them. :-) A big part of practicing is working on what you can't do, not focusing/working on what you can do. Like high jumpers in track/field; set the bar at the height you'd like to reach, not at a height you can easily jump. Most of all, enjoy the process.
Thanks for the quick reply! I can make the stretch on the 'alternate B', but your saying I'll need to be able to master the first B in the shuffle too? I'm in the UK & it's bedtime now - but I can't wait to get up tomorrow and practice some more!
Yes, you should practice both barred B chord positions. Get that elbow out and away form you body away from your waist and raise up your fretting hand/fingers a bit to give yourself more clearance/room/stretch. Don't be impatient with yourself ... this is a life's work ... not instant gratification. I've been playing the guitar for 50 years ... and I still practice and I am always learning 'new' things and trying to increase my abilities. "It's a long and winding road that has no end." Enjoy the process, have fun, and always try to expand your abilities.
Thanks, Hawkeye. I'm enjoying the lessons, though with this last one, I have to take it veeery slowly, as my poor short stubby fingers are having a heck of time learning to stretch far enough (esp. that pinky). I'll keep working on it!
Don't give up! You have the rest of your life to enjoy this. ;-)
The Blues Shuffle Is Infectious!!!! Right On! Right On!!
you really are a great teacher hawkeye, you gotta love another blues enthusiast, thanks! its been a long time for me since i've heard someone else mention those guitar hero's names. thanks! sure did make me smile.
steph78tele Here are the links that did not appear in my previous response ... for some unknown reason at my web site hawkeyeherman.com/articles.htm and here at jamplay www.jamplay.com/members/articles
STEPH78TELE, Thanks so much for enjoying these lessons and your kind comments. I met and learned directly from Son House, Bukka White, Furry Lewis, Lightnin' Hopkins, Mance Lipscomb, Brownie McGhee, John Jackson, and many others ... I owe them all a great debt for teaching me and giving me a life skill ... how could I not mention them? You can read about my encounters with the old blues guys/gals here or here at jamplay.com in the 'articles' area here This is just the beginning for you ... there's much more to come. I hope you continue to enjoy these lessons. Again, thanks so much.
wow im veeeery jelous! how blessed are you my friend! blues and those guys certainly do get in your blood hey. fury lewis is incredible i must dig out my cd. will deffinately check out your site i love readind those stories. happy days
steph78tele, Yes, I was blessed to have met and learned from many of the old bluesers ... read articles about it here, or more at my web site here... www. hawkeyeherman.com/articles.htm and there are free guitar lessons here... www.hawkeyeherman.com/guitar-lessons.htm and watch how I use the blues guitar techniques that I teach here at jamplay.com when I'm performing here www.youtube.com/profile?user=HawkeyeH ... and I get to meet and perform at festivals on the 'bill' with most of my contemporaries, as well, Rory Block, Taj Mahal, John Hammond, Eric Bibb, Chris Thomas King, Fiona Boyes, Corey Harris, Guy Davis, etc. I hope you continue to enjoy these lessons.
rangelyderek, :-) Well, that's just this is just the beginning of the fun. Try to follow the lesson plan as presented and you'll be blues grooving for the rest of your life. There's much more to come.
having a blast with these lessons thanks hawkeye.it seems like you realy enjoy doing these videos and that makes them even more fun,and i like the bit of blues history to.learning timming chord progressions in a fun way cant say enough thanks.
fretboardnewb, Thanks so much for your kind comments. Very much appreciated. So glad you're enjoying these lessons. There's much more to come ... I hope you'll continue to journey with me on the 'blues highway' here at jamplay.com Again, thanks for your kind words.
Hawkeye, just have to say the nylon Herco thumbpick keeps amazing me. Performing these blues shuffles is so much easier with this thumbpick then with a standard pick. I always have trouble with the pick sliding around between my fingers and would constantly be trying to reposition it while playing. I've also used the thumbpick to try some regular songs, I'd always flatpicked and while it takes a slight adjustment of the hand, it works great there too. Concerning the lesson, I've never enjoyed playing this pattern as much as I do now, due mostly to your enthusiam and the Herco thumbpick : ) Thanks!
whitebomber, So glad you're enjoying these lessons ... and the nylon thumbpick ... much better for a variety of blues picking. I hope you'll continue to travel with me here on the 'blues highway' at jamplay.com. Thanks again.
I played Sax for around seven years as a kid, I wish my instructor could have explained transposing and rythm changes as easily as you. I'm playing right along with you in the shuffle. Awesome lessons it re-sparked my blues and jazz interests!!!
klomb01, Thanks so much for the kind comments. Much appreciated. So glad you've 'got it' regarding transposing keys, etc. I am not happy unless every one of my students folks understands whatever I'm teaching ... so you can see I take it slow and have many ways of explaining the same concept. Some teachers have just one way of teaching a particular concept, and if you 'get it,' great, if not, too bad. I want the entire world to understand and appreciate the influence of blues on popular musics ... not just my guitar students. I've takend my Blues In THe Schools program into over 500 schools (all levels) in 22 states and 5 foreign countries over the past 30+ years ... to over 1/2 million students (check out: http://www.hawkeyeherman.com/blues_in_the_schools.htm) ... and I'm still working on getting to the ... rest of the planet. :-) Thanks again for traveling the 'blues highway' with me here at jamplay.com, and for rekindling your interest in blues/jazz. There's much more to come. Please take your time and enjoy the process.
Hawkeye, I was going really well with these blues lessons until I hit the 9th measure of the basic shuffle in lesson 4. I can only just make the stretch between the 2nd fret A string with my index finger and the 6th fret D string with my pinky. I can only do it by stopping and straining. My hands aren't that small. Watching the video of you playing, it looks pretty easy, have you got massive hands? or will my reach get better with practice and stretching exercises? Please advise. Great lessons, I love blues guitar. Merry Christmas. (birchy)
birchy, Thanks for the comment and question. Glad you're enjoying the lessons. In regard to your question, did you look at the 'alternative' tablature page in the 'supplemental information' area of the lesson? Try the 'alternative' shuffle, that should help. Also, be sure that the elbow of your fretting hand (left) is not flying around in space far away from your body ... your left elbow should be below the neck of the guitar, almost pointing at the floor ... not hugging your body, but in front of your body with the elbow pointing downward. If your elbow is 'out to the side' it makes your fingers task of stretching between the frets more difficult. Also, yes, stop and practice the fingering when you have difficulty ... this is part of 'muscle memory' ... you need to get used to the stretch, and your fingers need to be 'taught' to memorize where they must go. Practice ... play slowly ... things will improve. Please don't give up ... this is too much fun to let a little initial 'pain' and difficulty discourage you ;-) ... And by the way, yes, I do have large hands with long a spider-leg like fingers ... which is advantageous. However, you gotta work with what you got, so practice the stretch and keep your elbow away from and in front of your body, and pointing downward. I hope you continue to enjoy the lessons. Thanks again!
Hi Hawkeye, Thanks so much for these lessons. I've been learning the guitar for 2 years now, with the blues on and off, but have had trouble finding a good solid blues teacher/resource to take me from the ground up. I'd learn bits and pieces but never the full story - for instance I can play the blues scale in 5 positions (not well mind you!) but until 2 days ago I couldn't play you a simple 12 bar progression! But just watching your first two lessons has made it all fall into place - you have a real knack for explaining it simply, but not glossing over the details. So thanks for helping me with this, and I'll continue to work through your lessons. Cameron
cameron, You're most welcome ... sorry for the delayed response ... as I've been touring in Europe from 11/10 to 12/3. Your kind words are most encouraging ... I love sharing the blues with others, never tire of the process, and hope you will stick with it for the rest of your life! There's much more to come. Thanks again.
Hi Hawkeye. Just wanted you to know that I LOVE your lessons. I have just moved up from phase I and was worried that these genre lessons might take a quantum leap forward that I might struggle with, but you break things down so clearly that I can't wait for the next one. Also, your love of the music shows in your face and the background you go into is great for people like me who will never get a chance to go to America. Rock on Hawkeye and I will do my best to keep up. Chris
floorshaker, Thanks so much for your kind comments about my blues guitar lessons. So glad you've been able to accomplish moving from phase one lessons into phase two. There are many more of my lessons to be posted here. You can watch me perform many blues songs here: http://www.youtube.com/profile?user=HawkeyeH Maybe I'll be in your corner of the world to perform someday ... I'll be performing in France for two weeks in November. Someday, maybe I'll be performing at a blues festival in your home area. I hope so. Again, thanks so much.
Hawkeye, I am learning to play the blues after being an avid listener for years. I played guitar with my grandparents back when i was very young and wanted to pick it up again. I picked up a copy of Acoustic Guitar magazine, saw the jamplay trial and thought i would check it out. your lessons caught my eye and I am enjoying them very much. After just one day "with" you i am already making "music", albeit simple. But at least it is a tune. At 48 i wondered what i could accomplish. the progress i made with your lessons really have me excited. Andy Smith
Andy, Thanks so much for your kind comment and positive experience. Very much appreciated. It's never too late to learn ... anything! The enjoyment that comes from learning and making/creating your own music is immeasurable. It is most gratifying for me to know that you have embarked on a 'new' path in life ... and that this new path will bring great satisfaction ... for as long as you choose to pursue it. "It's a long a nd winding road that has no end." I've ben playing the guitar for 50 years, and I'm still/always 'hungry' to learn/know more. You know when you're on to a good thing for your Self ... when you never tire of learning and practicing. Hang in there with me ... there's much more to come. Again, thanks so much for your comments and for traveling the blues highyway with me here at jamplay.com
fsaroufim, Thanks so much for the comment. So glad you're enjoying the lessons. The blues is/are 'universal' ... it's hot and humid in Lebanon, isn't it? ... just like Mississippi ;-) ... and singing about our hopes of improving our situation(s) is an important aspect of LIFE ... so hang in there with me ... and play the blues as you feel 'em ... even in the Middle East! Thanks again.
Hawkeye im from Beirut, Lebanon (non contextual place for Blues music ) .. i enjoy your lessons so much ... though it aint the mississipi here haaa!
freddyb, Thanks so much for the kind comments. There's much more to come. Also, there are free guitar lessons at my web site: http://www.hawkeyeherman.com/guitar-lessons.htm Keep pickin' and grinnin' ... and enjoy your progress.
great stuff I can't tell you how mush I've spent on lessons on the internet and havn't been able to play a good lick . Where the hell have ya'll been for the past three months .I live in the muddy water state for the past year and all you here is good blues down on B street shure got my mouth watering Thanks
dickieboy, Yes, you could call the shuffle a 'riff' ... as opposed to a 'lick' ('lick' seems to refer to a hot/fast series of notes). I consider the shuffle to be a standard rhythm figure ... and you can 'riff' on the basic shuffle rhythm by changing/adding/detracting notes spontaneously as you play ... but if you 'riff' too extensively it becomes a guitar lead rather than a rhythm figure. Generally speaking, a good (solid) rhythm figure, like the shuffle, maintains it's character throughout a piece of music ... it's what helps give a piece of music its identity/recognition factor ... like the bass line ... or drum rhythm. Riff on ... but keep the difference between solid rhythm and lead in mind.
Hawkeye, is the Blues Shuffle, basically a riff ? By the way...you are AWESOME !!
There's a "Hawkeye Live in Concert" DVD you might enjoy ... You can see/hear many of the songs on the DVD for free on youtube.com at; http://www.youtube.com/profile?user=HawkeyeH Check 'em out ... you can see/hear my blues ... in action.
Excellent instruction. Lessons are outstanding.
Good morning blues, blues how do you do?
I'm doing alright, good morning, how are you?
Thanks so much for the comments. It's my goal to have you all playing ... along with me ... I encourage your participation ... not just your observing the lessons ... I try to repeat the main concepts for each lesson a number of times ... so that those concepts stick with you ... when you leave the session. Please do play along! Thanks again! More to come ... how to play blues leads, turnarounds, chords, and even some slide guitar. So, please hang in there with me.
Hawkeye, I do enjoy the 'thoroughness' that you put into each lesson, by that I mean that you repeat sections long enough for us to play along with you, and that definitely helps build the sense that makes it seem more than just a video lesson. It becomes a mini jam session, and I find that even the sense of playing with someone else is one of the most valuable aspects of learning guitar in any genre. Thanks for the opportunity. Keep Shuffling!
awesome!
Nice little Shuffle there, still working on the transition to barre chords but I like it.
The next lesson which should be posted tomorrow also deals with the shuffle :)