The 12 Bar Blues Progression
The 12 bar Blues is a pattern of chords which repeats every 12 bars. It is the most common progression in Blues music, and is used extensively in Rock and Jazz as well. There are usually three different chords used. Each of these chords relates to one basic Key.The key is the central note around which a piece of music is based. For example, a piece of music in the key of C would be made up of notes from the C major scale. Chords can be built from any notes of the scale. In Blues, the most common chords are those built on notes 1, 4 and 5 of the major scale. So in the key of C, these chords would be C, F and G. If you are not familiar with these chords, or the C major scale, see Progressive Beginner Guitar.
Chord numbers in music are usually indicated by roman numerals, as shown below.
Listen to the CD to hear a demonstration of a typical 12 bar Blues. The progression is shown in the key of C with accompanying roman numerals. The symbol C which appears above some of the bars is a bar repeat sign. It indicates that bar is identical to the previous bar. The last two bars of the progression is called the turnaround. This is a type of ending which leads to the next verse. Turnarounds will be dealt with in a later lesson.
