How to jam with other musicians

Hi, I’ve been a member for a number of years and love the site. The song lessons are amazing providing not just the notes to play, but connecting together the gear, sounds and arrangements which adds a very interesting dimension. I can play lots of songs and even have a reasonable grasp of some theory. Where I struggle is getting together with some friends (who are amazing players) and they just start jamming. Someone starts playing a baseline and everyone else jumps right in. I find myself getting lost and not really being part of the action. Any recommended lessons that would help me work on this element of my playing? Thanks, Michael

Hi Michael,

Jam sessions like the one you described is an entirely new way of playing if you're not using to playing with others.

You may have to train your ear to be able to tell which key your buddies are playing in and then jump in with chords stabs or small licks here and there.

It's also important to feel the rhythm of what your friends are playing too, because if you play out of time, it's very noticeable!

I suggest practicing with jam tracks by using the Jam Station here: https://www.guitartricks.com/jam.php

And brushing up on some scales.

Best,

Billy