Blues Standards
Blues music is a fundamental part of the history of guitar music and is an essential genre for any guitarist to learn. Blues music is characterised by its use of the 12-bar chord progression, its use of the blues scale and it's focus on the emotional expression of the lyrics. Here are some essential blues standards that every guitarist should learn:
10 Blues Standards for Guitar
1. "Cross Road Blues" by Robert Johnson
This classic blues tune is considered one of the most important pieces in the history of blues music. It's a great song to start with if you're just learning how to play the blues.
2. "Sweet Home Chicago" by Robert Johnson
This song is another classic blues tune that is a must-know for any guitarist. It's a great song to practice strumming patterns and working on your rhythm.
3. "I'm Tore Down" by Freddie King
This tune is a great example of the Texas blues style and it's perfect for beginners. It features simple chords and a steady, easy-to-follow rhythm.
4. "The Thrill is Gone" by B.B. King
This song is a classic blues tune that showcases the iconic guitar playing of B.B. King. It's a great song to practice fingerpicking and working on your technique.
5. "Stormy Monday" by T-Bone Walker
This song is a classic blues tune that is perfect for beginners. It features simple chords and a steady, easy-to-follow rhythm. It's a great song to practice fingerpicking and working on your technique.
6. "I'm Your Hoochie Coochie Man" by Muddy Waters
This song is a classic blues tune that showcases the iconic guitar playing of Muddy Waters. It's a great song to practice fingerpicking and working on your technique.
7. "Sweet Little Angel" by Lucille Bogan
This song is considered a classic, it's a perfect example of the Mississippi Delta blues style. It's a great song to practice fingerpicking and working on your technique.
8. "Key to the Highway" by Big Bill Broonzy
This song is a classic blues tune that showcases the fingerpicking style of Big Bill Broonzy. It's a great song to practice fingerpicking and working on your technique.
9. "Born Under a Bad Sign" by Albert King
This song is a classic blues tune that showcases the guitar playing of Albert King. It's a great song to practice fingerpicking and working on your technique.
10. "All Your Love (I Miss Loving)" by Otis Rush
This song is a classic blues tune that showcases the guitar playing of Otis Rush. It's a great song to practice fingerpicking and working on your technique.
Now it's down to you
These are just a few examples of essential blues standards for guitarists. There are many other blues songs out there that are perfect for beginners, so don't be afraid to explore and try new things. With a bit of practice and dedication, you'll be playing your favourite blues songs in no time!
Tell us you favourite easy song!
With more than 40 years experience as a music educator, performer, recording musician, author and composer/arranger, Reuben has taught hundreds of people how to play guitar. He operates a busy guitar school where students study the essential skills of the instrument and are encouraged to develop their own musical voice, to express themselves through music.
When Reuben isn’t playing guitar, teaching guitar, or listening to guitar music you’ll probably find him in the kitchen cooking an outrageously hot Mexican chilli.