What are the notes of the blues scale?
And how do you find the blues scale?
The major and minor blues scales are used in blues music, but are often used in other genres as well.
The standard blues scale is a 6-note scale, similar to a pentatonic scale but with the addition of an extra note.
The major blues scale pattern is 1 - 2 - b3 - 3 - 5 - 6.
We’re going to go over the different types of blues scales, as well as break down the difference between pentatonic scale and blues scale.
Understanding this will help you learn how to play guitar.
Now that we have the scale formula, we have to figure out which notes go into these scales.
Major Blues Scale
The major blues scale is exactly the same as a major pentatonic, but with the addition of a b3.
With that in mind let’s take a look at the pattern for a major pentatonic scale.
The major pentatonic scale looks like this:
1 - 2 - 3 - 5 - 6
With '1' being the root note of the given scale.
If we want to make this a major blues scale, we add a flat 3rd scale degree right after the 2nd scale degree.
So a major blues scale pattern looks like this:
1 - 2 - b3 - 3 - 5 - 6
With this formula, let’s build the C major blues scale.
The C major blues scale will consist of these notes:
C - D - Eb - E - G - A
Minor Blues Scale
The minor blues scale comes from the minor pentatonic scale plus one additional note, the b5.
First, let’s take a look at the minor pentatonic scale pattern:
1 - b3 - 4 - 5 - b7
To form a minor blues scale, we add a flat 5the scale degree between the 4th and the 5th scale degrees.
So a minor blues scale pattern is this:
1 - b3 - 4 - b5 - 5 - b7
Let’s take this formula and make an A minor blues scale.
A - C - D - Eb - E - G
Here’s what an A minor blues scale pattern looks like as a tab:
The A minor blues scale also looks like this on the fretboard:
We go into depth on how exactly to apply these scales to your playing in the Blues Level 1 Course.
Understanding these two scales will enable you to play across many different genres and styles!
Make sure to use a metronome while working through these scales.
Go slowly at first so you can form good habits.
This will make you faster and more capable as you speed things up.
FAQ
What is the standard blues scale?
The standard blues scale is basically a pentatonic scale with one extra note – the "blue note," which adds that distinct bluesy sound. It typically has six notes.
What are 5 notes of the blues scale?
The five core notes of the blues scale are the minor pentatonic notes: root, minor third, fourth, fifth, and minor seventh.
What is the C major blues scale?
The C major blues scale is similar to the C major pentatonic but includes an added flat third (E♭). The notes are: C, D, E♭, E, G, and A.
What is the best pentatonic scale for blues?
The minor pentatonic scale is the most commonly used for blues. It has a soulful sound that fits well with the blues style.
Which blues scale to learn first?
Start with the minor pentatonic scale, as it's easy to learn and the foundation of many blues licks. Once comfortable, you can add the "blue note" to make it a full blues scale.
What scale should I use for blues?
The minor pentatonic scale is a go-to for blues, but adding the blue note makes it even more authentic to the genre. You can also experiment with the major pentatonic for a different vibe.
What is the most famous blues scale?
The minor blues scale is the most famous and widely used in blues music. Its distinctive sound has shaped many iconic blues solos and riffs.
What is the best scale for blues solo?
The minor blues scale is great for soloing because it allows you to add expressiveness and emotion. Its structure fits well over standard blues progressions.
How do you finger blues scale?
To finger the blues scale, start with the minor pentatonic shape and add the blue note. Each position on the fretboard has a specific fingering pattern, typically involving a mix of whole steps and minor third intervals.
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