Super-imposing Chord Forms
Once you are comfortable using all these 7th chord shapes, it is a good idea to memorize which forms can be found in the same area of the fretboard as chords I, IV and V in any particular key. E.g if chord I is a C form then chord IV can be found as an E form at the same fret and chord V can be found as a G form one fret down. A good way to learn these patterns is to visualize the formss superimposed on the fretboard. The following example demonstrates these forms in the key of G beginning with a C form of a G7 chord at the 8th fret.
On the right is a summary of chords in positions which are close together on the fretboard. Memorize this summary and then experiment with the chords in all keys. This pattern applies regardlessof whether the chord type is major, minor or dominant 7th.
To end this section, here is a 12 bar Blues progression which combines two string shuffle playing with the 7th chord shapes you have learnt. This style of rhythm playing sounds great when you are backing a singer or harmonica player. Note: There are many more chords, rhythms and techniques used by Blues players than space allows here. For a more in-depth study of Blues rhythm playing in general, see Progressive Blues Guitar and Progressive Blues Rhythm Guitar Technique.
