The Blues Scale
The Blues scale consists of the same notes as the minor pentatonic scale with one extra note, i.e., the flat fifth note of the major scale. The following example is the G Blues scale. The scale has the same notes as the G minor pentatonic scale, G Bb C D and F. The G Blues scale has the additional note Db (or C# ).
G Blues Scale Finger Pattern
This example uses all the notes of the G Blues scale.
E Blues Scale Pattern 1
Pattern 1 is played in the open position (the first four frets). This pattern ranges from the low E string to the fourth fret of the first string, covering a total of one and a half octaves.
This example is a descending bass run using the notes of the E Blues scale.
E Blues Scale Pattern 2
Pattern 2 is played using almost all fretted notes. This time two octaves are covered.
There are several options and fingerings for this scale using exactly the same notes but on different locations on the fretboard.
This example is played within Blues pattern 2.
Memorize the patterns illustrated on this page as they are the basis of many basslines, runs, fill s, licks and solos. Experiment with them to create your own ideas.
For more Blues bass licks incorporating Blues scales see Progressive Blues Bass licks.
The following example is a slow minor Blues in the key of D minor.
For more Blues bass licks incorporating slow minor Blues see Progressive Blues Bass Licks.
