This week we'll be breaking down verse one of this slow blues. We'll go over some of the different techniques I'm using in this piece: tongue flutters, intentional slop, glissandos, half step and full step bends, etc, but the main things I want you to begin to grasp from this lesson and from this song in general, is the importance of phrasing, timing, and patience - Don't get over anxious. Play it cool.
Rick Estrin
Topics and/or subjects covered in this lesson:
Chicago Blues
Print Chords & Tab
A Harp in the Key of E.
Loop 0:00 Introduction to So Long
Loop 3:15 Breakdown of First 4 Bars
Loop 10:08 Breakdown of IV Chord and Back to I (Bars 5 - 8)
Loop 12:35 Slow Practice Loop of First 8 Bars
Loop 13:24 Breakdown of V Chord and Turnaround
Loop 19:16 Practice Loop of 1st Verse
Loop 20:40 Slow Practice Loop of 1st Verse
Loop 22:32 Closing Thoughts
Comments
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A very fun tune. Getting a lot out of it. Really works on your ear
Thanks for letting me know you’re enjoying this lesson. I agree with you, there’s a lot of good stuff in here! Thanks again and have fun!
What do we want?
Patience!
When do we want it?
Now!
Just kidding. Thanks for addressing this topic. I am trying to play less and less, where I can.
Eek! I'll get it.
Hi Jim - No need to "eek" out. It's just harmonica - Be patient with yourself. Relax. Put in the time, listen closely, and it'll happen.
Hi Rick,
Thanks for the quick reply !!!!
Alan.
Hi Rick,
Great lesson, so much going on in there !! My question is would a tongue vamp on the 5 draw be an acceptable substitute for the 5/2 tongue flutter ? I am working on the tongue flutter but the vamp is more reliable at this moment in time. Many thanks,
Alan.
Hi Alan - Real glad you like the lesson. Regarding the 5/2 flutter, do whatever works for you. I think playing the 2/5 with a trill, by moving either your hands or your head from side to side sounds really good too. Either way, vamp, trill, flutter, if it sounds effective, that's what matters.