Blues Scale

The blues scale is a variation of the minor pentatonic scale with an added blue note. It is widely used in blues, rock, jazz, and other genres to create a soulful and expressive sound.

Structure of the Blues Scale

The blues scale follows the pattern of whole steps (W), minor thirds (m3), and half steps (H) as follows:


m3 - W - H - H - m3 - W

Example: A Blues Scale

The A blues scale consists of the following notes:


A - C - D - D# - E - G - A

Sound and Character

The blues scale has a soulful and expressive sound, characterized by the blue note (D# in the A blues scale). It is often used in blues, rock, and jazz to create a sense of tension and release.

Applications of the Blues Scale

The blues scale is used in various musical contexts, including:

  • Melody: Creating soulful and expressive melodies.
  • Harmony: Building chords and chord progressions with a bluesy feel.
  • Improvisation: Soloing over blues and rock chord progressions.

Chords Derived from the Blues Scale

The blues scale can be used to derive the following chords:

  • I: Minor chord (e.g., Am)
  • IV: Minor chord (e.g., Dm)
  • V: Minor chord (e.g., Em)
  • bIII: Major chord (e.g., C)
  • bVII: Major chord (e.g., G)

Songs That Use the Blues Scale

Here are some songs that use the blues scale:

  • "The Thrill Is Gone" by B.B. King
  • "Crossroads" by Cream
  • "Red House" by Jimi Hendrix
  • "Sweet Home Chicago" by Robert Johnson
  • "Pride and Joy" by Stevie Ray Vaughan
  • "Born Under a Bad Sign" by Albert King

Practice Exercises

Here are some practice exercises to help you get familiar with the blues scale:

  1. Play the A blues scale on your instrument, ascending and