#1 Blues Scale Pattern You MUST Know and Dominate

As a seasoned guitarist with almost 40 years of experience, I've delved into countless solos, unraveling the secrets that make them timeless and iconic. One recurring theme that stands out is the reliance on a particular position – a position that I consider the cornerstone of blues guitar playing. In this blog post, I'll guide you through the significance of what we call "position one" and why mastering it is essential for any aspiring blues guitarist.

Position One: The Heart of the Blues Scale

Let's start with the basics. Position one refers to a specific layout of notes on the fretboard, and in this case, it's the blues scale. The blues scale, a variation of the pentatonic scale with the addition of a flat five, is a fundamental element of blues and rock guitar. However, within this scale, there's one position that reigns supreme – position one.

Picture this: I'm starting on the third fret, and the fingers stay within the third position. The sequence goes 1 4, 1 2 3, 1 3, 1 3 4, 1 4, 1. This simple but powerful sequence forms the basis of what we call position one. It's the go-to position for countless classic rock tunes and solos.

The Power of Position One

Why is position one so crucial? The answer lies in its power across the guitar playing spectrum. Whether you're listening to classic rock tunes or contemporary solos, you'll find that position one is the common thread. In my years of teaching and learning solos, I can confidently say that around 99% of them involve this form in some capacity.

Consider iconic licks like the ones I play in the video for this blog. You might recognize it from "You Shook Me All Night Long." Now, let's transpose it to a different key, like A, and play the same lick. The formation remains the same – it's the power of position one. Even the legendary "Stairway to Heaven" incorporates this form, deviating into other positions but rooted in the familiarity of position one.

A Jam in G: Putting Position One to the Test

To truly grasp the significance of position one, let's explore it in the context of a G blues scale. In the video post, I'll provide a jam track for you to experiment with, set in the key of G. Whether you prefer the G minor pentatonic or major pentatonic, position one accommodates both, making it an incredibly versatile tool in your blues guitar arsenal.

Starting from the third fret and following the finger sequence, you can navigate the G blues scale effortlessly. This form becomes your musical playground, allowing you to craft classic licks that echo through the annals of rock history. From "You Shook Me All Night Long" to the soulful "Stairway to Heaven," position one unlocks a world of possibilities.

The Tonic: A Musical Home in Position One

Beyond its prevalence in solos and tunes, position one offers another valuable attribute – it places the tonic, the root note of the scale, conveniently within reach. As you follow the sequence, notice how the tonic appears right here. This proximity to the tonic is crucial for effective phrasing, allowing you to conclude your musical sentences with a powerful period.

Imagine your solo as a narrative, and the tonic note becomes the punctuation at the end of each phrase. This not only enhances the musicality of your playing but also creates a sense of resolution that resonates with the listener. It's akin to a storyteller concluding a tale with a satisfying ending – a musical closure that elevates your playing to a new level.

In Conclusion: Embracing the Power of Position One

In the vast landscape of blues and rock guitar, position one emerges as a guiding star. Mastering this form opens doors to a rich tapestry of classic licks, iconic solos, and a profound understanding of musical phrasing. Whether you're a novice guitarist or a seasoned player, recognizing the importance of position one in your musical journey is a transformative step.

As you embark on your exploration of the blues scale, let position one be your starting point. Experiment with the jam track provided, immerse yourself in the timeless licks it offers, and feel the resonance of the tonic note guiding your musical narrative. Position one isn't just a set of frets and strings – it's a gateway to the soulful world of blues guitar, waiting to be unlocked by your fingertips.

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