I also agree chord tones are very important and especially if you are playing over changes you can target them on the down beat of each change. This will keep the listener in check and with you melodically plus make you sound like you are telling a story. I think that is a skill that really takes time to develop. Start working over static vamps and build out from there to two chords etc.
Let us know how you're doing.
All the Best,
Joe
http://www.guitarlessonsbuffalony.com
