Constant Bass Line
A popular fingerpicking technique that features in Blues acoustic guitar is the constant bass line style. This technique involves the right hand thumb playing the root bass note of the chord repeatedly for the duration of the song. The easiest key to apply this style is the key of A because the root bass note of each chord in the key of A (A, D and E) can be played as an open string.
Now try applying these constant bass lines to a 12 Bar Blues progression in the key of A.
The constant bass line is used in conjunction with notes from the A scales outlined earlier.
A Minor Pentatonic
A Blues Scale (open position)
The next examples combine the constant bass line while ascending and descending the A scales shown previously. The recommended fingering should only be used as a guide. Generally speaking the licks should be played with alternating "m" and "i" fingers. Feel free to vary this rule if you feel more comfortable breaking the alternating pattern on certain licks.
The next example combines a basic lick with the constant bass line.
Now a 12 Bar Blues progression using basic licks from the A minor pentatonic scale.
The next examples involve playing notes on the off beat, in between the bass notes.
The following examples apply several lead guitar techniques studied in earlier lessons.
Now a complete 12 Bar Blues progression using a variety of techniques.
