In this video
The Blues Scale adds just one note - the 'blues' note - to the minor pentatonic scale you already know - often in this case, Minor Pentatonic Shape 1!
This single addition unlocks some of the most iconic rock and blues riffs ever written!
And the note sits right between two notes you're already playing in the pentatonic scale, so it's actually easy to find on the fretboard and identify with our ear!
A prime example: The open position E minor pentatonic, the blues note is at the 3rd fret of string five. This creates a darker, grittier sound that's essential to blues, rock, and countless other genres.
Main Learning Points:
E minor blues scale in open position: adds 3rd fret on string five
A minor pentatonic Shape 1 blues scale (at the 5th fret): adds 6th fret note on string 5
Blues scale in multiple positions across the neck (moveable shapes!)
Classic songs unlocked 🔓
Roadhouse Blues by The Doors: unmistakable blues scale riff
Heartbreaker by Led Zeppelin in the A position
Sunshine of Your Love: the most recognisable blues scale riff (in D)
Sweet Child O' Mine ending: uses blues scale notes
Beating Around the Bush by AC/DC in E open position
The key is learning where your root notes are, then adding the blues note relative to those positions.
Start by mastering minor pentatonic in each position first, then add the blues note once the basic scale is solid. This builds on what you already know in an organic way.
Blues Scale Examples
Skim through this clip to see:
The Blues scale in Open E and A positions
Various Shape 1 pentatonic versions
The full E blues scale in shape 1