The Blues Scale On Guitar:
The blues scale is a six-note musical scale used widely in blues, rock, country, and jazz.
Think of it as the pentatonic scale with a twist—an added “blue note” that gives it a soulful, expressive vibe. On the guitar, this scale is a go-to for creating solos that ooze emotion and groove.
What is the Formula for a Blues Scale?
The blues scale formula is:
1 – b3 – 4 – b5 – 5 – b7
1: The root note, which sets the tone of the scale.
b3 (flat third): Adds a minor, bluesy quality.
4 (perfect fourth): A foundational interval.
b5 (flat fifth): Known as the “blue note,” this creates the signature blues sound.
5 (perfect fifth): Balances the tension created by the blue note.
b7 (flat seventh): Deepens the scale’s soulful character.
In practical terms, if you’re in the key of A, the notes of the A blues scale are: A, C, D, Eb, E, G.
How is the Blues Scale Played on Guitar?
On the guitar, the blues scale is often played using familiar pentatonic scale shapes with one extra note—the blue note.
You can start by learning it in one position, typically in the key of A or E, and then expand it across the fretboard. It’s a versatile scale, perfect for bending, sliding, and hammer-ons to express emotion.
What is the Difference Between Pentatonic and Blues Scales?
The pentatonic scale is a five-note scale that’s simple and versatile, often used as a starting point for guitarists. The blues scale adds one extra note—the blue note—to the pentatonic, giving it a distinctively raw, emotional edge.
Think of the pentatonic as smooth and clean, while the blues scale brings in a bit of grit and soul.
In Short
The blues scale is the pentatonic scale with an added “blue note” (the flat fifth).
This small addition makes a world of difference, injecting a unique, soulful vibe into your playing.
Don’t confuse it with the pentatonic scale—the pentatonic is like the foundation, while the blues scale is its expressive upgrade.
Related Useful Resources: