Why I Sing the Blues: A Guitarist's Journey through BB King's Timeless Classic

When it comes to the blues, few names shine as brightly as BB King. His emotional guitar playing and soulful vocals have left an indelible mark on the world of music. "Why I Sing the Blues" is one of his iconic songs, and it's a treasure trove for guitarists seeking to explore the intricacies of this genre. In this guitar lesson, we'll delve deep into the song, analysing the chords, scales, and a thrilling guitar solo. We'll also explore the lead guitarist's role in bringing this masterpiece to life. Lee Hodgson guides you through this blues classic in his exclusive Lick Library video tutorial.

Chords and Progression

At the heart of any blues song are the chords that form its backbone. "Why I Sing the Blues" follows a standard 12-bar blues progression in the key of Bb. The primary chords used are:

• Bb7 (I7)
• Eb7 (IV7)
• F7 (V7)

The song's structure adheres to the traditional blues framework, giving it that authentic, timeless feel that BB King was known for.

Scales

BB King's signature playing style often relied on the Bb Blues Scale. This scale forms the foundation of his improvisations and licks throughout the song. The Bb Blues Scale consists of the following notes:

• Bb, Db, Eb, E, F, Ab

This scale choice contributes to the classic blues sound that permeates "Why I Sing the Blues."

Guitar Solo Analysis

Now, let's take a closer look at the captivating guitar solo in this song. BB King's solos were renowned for their emotional depth and expressive phrasing. Here's a breakdown of the solo's key moments:

1. Bending and Vibrato: BB King's masterful use of bending and vibrato techniques adds a distinctive character to the solo. His bends often reach a whole step or more, creating a vocal-like quality in his playing. Learn more about Vibrato
2. Double Stop Bends: Throughout the solo, King employs double stop bends, bending two strings simultaneously to create a harmonically rich sound. Learn more about Double Stop Bends
3. Unison Bends: Unison bends are another hallmark of BB King's style. He bends one note to match the pitch of another, creating a beautiful, crying effect. Learn more about Unison Bends
4. Pinched Harmonics: King uses pinched harmonics sparingly but effectively to accentuate certain notes and add an extra layer of texture to the solo. Learn more about Pinched Harmonics
5. Trills: BB King's solos often feature trills, quick alternations between two adjacent notes, adding excitement and intensity to his playing. Learn more about Trills
6. Tremolo Picking: In some sections, King incorporates tremolo picking, rapidly picking a single note to create a sense of urgency and tension. Learn more about Tremolo Picking
7. String Bending: BB King's string bending is legendary, and he uses it extensively in this solo to infuse his notes with emotion and soul. Learn more about String Bending

The solo in "Why I Sing the Blues" is a masterclass in phrasing, dynamics, and emotional storytelling through the guitar.

BB King

In the original recording of "Why I Sing the Blues," the lead guitarist was, of course, the incomparable BB King himself. King's approach to lead guitar was deeply rooted in his own life experiences, and his ability to convey those feelings through his instrument set him apart.

BB King's playing on this song is a testament to his prowess as a guitarist. His precise note choice, soulful bends, and heartfelt vibrato make this track a standout in his extensive catalog. King's use of space and dynamics within his solos allowed his guitar to sing and tell a story, which is a defining characteristic of his playing.

While many guitarists try to emulate BB King's style, his unique tone and touch can never be fully replicated. His influence on the world of blues and rock guitar is immeasurable, and "Why I Sing the Blues" serves as a shining example of his artistry.

Guitar Techniques Used

Here is a list of the guitar techniques used in "Why I Sing the Blues":

• Vibrato
• Bending
• Double Stop Bends
• Unison Bends
• Pinched Harmonics
• Trills
• Tremolo Picking

BB King's "Why I Sing the Blues" remains a timeless classic that continues to inspire guitarists worldwide. By studying the chords, scales, and solo, you can gain valuable insights into the artistry of BB King and develop your own blues guitar skills. Whether you're a seasoned blues player or just starting your journey, this song is a must-learn piece that showcases the magic of the blues guitar.