Minor Blues - Licks & Ideas

When improvising a BB King-style solo over a minor blues progression, I incorporate various musical elements to enrich my playing. Primarily, I utilize the minor pentatonic scale, which forms the backbone of the blues sound, allowing for expressive and soulful phrasing. Additionally, I incorporate the Aeolian mode (also known as the natural minor scale) to add depth and color to my melodies, emphasizing the characteristic minor third and seventh intervals that define the blues tonality.

To further enhance my improvisation, I integrate harmonic minor licks strategically. These licks introduce tension and a touch of sophistication, creating contrast and interest within the blues context. This approach not only honors BB King's distinctive style but also expands the vocabulary of blues phrasing, offering a blend of traditional blues elements with nuanced harmonic choices.

By mastering these techniques and understanding the nuances of blues phrasing, I aim to create a compelling narrative over a classic minor blues sequence. This involves paying attention to dynamics, bends, vibrato, and rhythmic accents, all of which contribute to capturing the emotive essence of blues music while adding personal expression and creativity.