In this initial lesson of the latin beat piece, "Mr. Lee's Mambo" - we're going to focus primarily on the groove and on the simple chord pattern that drives the song. We'll also include the first lick of song so you can see how it lays in the groove. At times when we're not actually, physically playing the chord pattern, we'll still be feeling it and keeping it going - silently, in our heads. Either way, we're going to maintain this feel throughout the song. Once you have this simple rhythm in your head, you'll be on your way to becoming a mambo king!
Rick Estrin
Topics and/or subjects covered in this lesson:
Groove
key of E
A Harp
Rick Estrin
Mr. Lee's Mambo
Mambo
Print Chords & Tab
A Harp in the Key of E.
Loop 0:00 Introduction to the Mr. Lee's Mambo
Loop 2:00 Main Groove
Loop 3:28 First Riff
Loop 7:50 Second Riff on I Chord
Loop 8:57 Rhythm Breakdown
Loop 9:48 Closing Thoughts
Comments
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This is a great song! A real "slam dunk"!!
Thanks! I’m glad you dig it. If your hoop work ethic transfers over to learning the harp, you’ll be the best in the world in no time! 😜
what's the difference in the marine band and marine cross over
The Crossover is a deluxe version of the Marine Band. It's a great harp. It has a sealed bamboo wood comb which is more airtight and water resistant than the standard pearwood comb that comes with a regular Marine Band. Consequently Crossovers are a little louder with a slightly brighter tone.
I've been with Lee Osker harmonica. Too me it's sounds good, But maybe there is a better kind. What do you play? thanks. And are able to clean it and haw?
Hi Boyd - I play Hohner Marine Band harmonicas. It's just a matter of personal preference. A lot of people use Lee Oskar harmonicas and are very happy with them. My feeling was, if Little Walter, Sonnyboy, Cotton and Big Walter played 'em, that was what I wanted to sound like, so that was what I wanted to play.
Hi Rick !! I d like to have your toughts ....
Hey Andre - That's really great! I can tell you're feeling those chords - They're right where they belong - with the right touch too!
That makes sense. Thanks.
Bill
I have question. Out of the music you musians play, do you write your music down or memorize it all and just keep it in your head?
Hi Boyd - Like a lot of blues-type musicians, I play strictly by ear, so I'm often just playing whatever I'm feeling at the time. When I come up with something I need to remember, I generally just play it over and over and hope it sticks. Sometimes it does and sometimes it doesn't. Once in a while I cheat and use the "voice memo" app on my phone.
Hey Rick,
A little off topic but could you give an example of a tear dropper and a straight beat?
thanks,
Bill
What I would call a straight beat would be something like "Got My Mojo Working" by Muddy or "You Know It Ain't Right" by Little Walter. A tear dropper is the name my friend John "Blues" Boyd calls a slow blues.
Rick, I'm enjoying this one. I like the contrasts in this lesson...nice and upbeat contrasting with the blues notes & some shock & awe!
Hey! Thanks Paul! Sorry I didn't reply sooner. I just saw this. Keep me updated on your progress and feel free to ask for clarification anytime.
Great song I love it. Can we have a backing track
Don't worry, Boyd - There's a backing track on the way.
Deal !!
"Buoyant" is the word I've been looking for! Thank you for heading me in a direction I want to go.
Thank you for telling me! Helping people get where they want to go on the harp is what I hope to do here.
I really appreciate this detailed review of the use of the ghost chord........
Thanks Terry - I find using ghost notes and ghost chords one of the most helpful and useful tools for keeping the groove buoyant. To me, they really help the music to feel alive.
Really nice
Thanks Boyd - Have fun with it!
So Cool man !!! the groove ...
Thanks Andre - I want to hear this one next time I see you!