Demo & Introduction to Advanced Solo Acoustic Blues

In this introductory lesson, I just want to show you what to expect in the next few lessons when exploring Acoustic Blues! The main piece we're learning draws inspiration from legendary players like Stevie Ray Vaughan, Eric Clapton, and Jimi Hendrix.

They are electric players though, right? Yes, but the skills are very transferable between the two guitar types (as shown by Clapton particularly!)

The key differences between electric and acoustic blues playing is:

• The use of slides instead of string bends on acoustic guitar.

• Emphasis on hammer-ons too! Probably more on acoustic than electric

The main reason there is a distinct difference in player style is due to SUSTAIN. The acoustic can't sustain as well as on an electric guitar so we have to compensate for that through our technique.

Key learning points in this video:

• Why slides work better than bends on acoustic guitar, especially on the third string

• A look at essential rhythm and blues concepts (SRV rhythm)

• The link to Hendrix for the Acoustic Blues Piece - influenced by "Hey Joe" and "Purple Haze"

• Addressing techniques like hammer-ons and slides to work round sustain

• Introduction to the 12-bar blues, a vehicle for showcasing advanced techniques and unaccompanied playing!

• Recommended listening: Clapton Unplugged, Stevie Ray Vaughan's "Pride and Joy" and "Life by the Drop"