In this tutorial we will learn to play some soulful R&B (Rhythm & Blues) guitar style rhythm parts & lead licks.

R&B is an acronym that stands for Rhythm and Blues. This style is of course rooted strongly in the blues. The melodies are distinctly bluesy, combining major chord harmonies with minor scale notes for a bittersweet or melancholy sound. You can also hear the blues in the rhythmic and percussive nature of how the chords are played. There is also a bit of a funky approach in the use of syncopated, percussive and staccato rhythms.

There is often a swing rhythm involved, but not necessarily. There is also a little of the sophistication of jazz in the use of extended chord voicings and advanced progressions.

So, the primary characteristics of R&B guitar style are: blues melodies and funky, syncopated rhythms with jazzy chord voicings and progressions.