The Shuffle Rhythm
The shuffle rhythm "boogie" is another popular rhythm used in Blues. Two types of chords are used to play the shuffle rhythm, the two string form of the major chord and the two string form of the sixth chord. These chords are easiest played in the open position. Shown next are the A, D, E, A6, D6 and E6 chords. The sixth chords are played with the third finger but the first finger should remain positioned on the fifth chord as indicated by the open circle.
A(2 string form)
A6(2 string form)
D(2 string form)
D6(2 string form)
E(2 string form)
E6(2 string form)
Rhythm Pattern
Example 21 uses the A and A6 chords. The rhythm is counted as "1...ah, 2...ah, 3...ah, 4...ah". Listen to the recording to get the right feel for this rhythm.
Right Hand Damping
A popular effect to use with the shuffle rhythm is right hand damping (indicated by the symbol D). This is achieved by lightly resting the butt of the right hand on the strings near the bridge of the guitar while strumming, producing a slightly muted sound to the chord. Do not press too heavily on the strings as the chord will be completely muted creating a "dead" sound instead. This technique is applied to the following example.
The next example features the previous chords over an 8 bar Blues progression.
Rhythm Pattern
The shuffle rhythm is often applied to a 12 Bar Blues progression.
Rhythm Pattern
Rhythm Pattern
Example 24 illustrates a common variation of the shuffle rhythm.
The chord sequence from the previous example can be applied to a 12 Bar Blues progression in the key of A.
Rhythm Pattern
Another popular chord shape applied to a shuffle rhythm is the 2 string form of the seventh chord. Study the following diagrams.
A7(2 string form)
D7(2 string form)
E7(2 string form)
The 2 string form of the seventh chord is often used in conjunction with the shuffle rhythm.
Rhythm Pattern
The next example is a popular variation of the previous rhythm.
Rhythm Pattern
The following 12 Bar Blues progression utilizes the chord sequence of the previous example to the other chords in the key of A.
Rhythm Pattern
