I know what you mean. I have problems picking out certain notes. but when I do i just play around until I think i got it. If it sounds good and it blends go with it. As far as solos I cant help you much their Ive never learned a solo nor have i attempted to. Although there is alot of people on this sight that can help you with that. But I do know alot of solos or atleast some of them, they dont stay in one scale they'll combine scales. for example they might start in an "E" harmonic minor than jump to a "E" dorian then to a "E" natural minor and ect.. hope this helps