A Deep Dive into BB King's "Everyday I Have the Blues"

If you're a guitarist with a penchant for the blues, chances are you've crossed paths with BB King's timeless classic, "Everyday I Have the Blues." This iconic song embodies the essence of the blues, and BB King's masterful guitar work in this track is a treasure trove of techniques that every blues guitarist should explore. In this in-depth analysis, we'll delve into the chords, scales, and a thorough solo breakdown that make this song a blues legend. Lee Hodgson guides us through each note in his exclusive Lick Library video tutorial.

Chords Used

"Everyday I Have the Blues" primarily follows a classic 12-bar blues progression. The chords used in this song are:

• A7
• D7
• E7

These three chords are the backbone of the song, providing that quintessential bluesy harmony that is both soulful and emotive.

Guitar Scales

To navigate through the song's melodies and create those signature bluesy licks, BB King relies heavily on the A blues scale. The A blues scale consists of the following notes:

• A
• C
• D
• Eb
• E
• G

This scale, with its bent and slurred notes, adds the expressive touch that characterises BB King's playing style.

Solo Analysis

BB King's solo in "Everyday I Have the Blues" is a masterclass in blues guitar. Let's break it down section by section:

Intro Solo

The intro solo begins with a soulful bending of the 4th and 5th strings, showcasing BB King's signature vibrato technique. This expressive vibrato sets the tone for the entire song.

Main Solo

As the song progresses, BB King unleashes his unparalleled talent with an array of techniques:

• Bends: BB King is known for his smooth, controlled bends, and this solo is no exception. He incorporates both half-step and full-step bends to add emotion to his phrases.
• Vibrato: Vibrato is BB King's secret weapon. He uses it liberally throughout the solo, creating those haunting, weeping notes that are the hallmark of his playing.
• Slides: Slides between notes add a smooth and fluid quality to the solo, seamlessly connecting phrases.
• Double Stop Bends: BB King uses double stops to create harmonies within the solo. These bends add a rich, full sound to his playing.
• Unison Bends: Unison bends are another key element of BB King's style. They involve bending one note to match the pitch of another, creating a powerful, expressive sound.
• Trills: Quick trills between notes add a sense of urgency and excitement to the solo.
• Pull-offs: BB King employs pull-offs to transition between notes effortlessly, maintaining the flow of the solo.
• Slides: Slides are a common technique in blues guitar, and BB King uses them to great effect in this solo, adding a touch of slide guitar influence.
• String Bending: Throughout the solo, BB King's impeccable string bending technique is on full display, infusing the notes with emotion and soul.

BB King's Playing Style

BB King, often referred to as the "King of the Blues," was an iconic lead guitarist. His playing style was characterised by a deep connection to his instrument and a remarkable ability to convey raw emotion through his guitar. BB King's unique vibrato and bending techniques set him apart from other blues guitarists. He played with a deceptively simple approach, allowing the notes to breathe and speak for themselves. His guitar, famously named "Lucille," became an extension of his soul, and his expressive phrasing made every note count.

In "Everyday I Have the Blues," BB King's lead guitar work shines through as he takes the listener on a journey through the highs and lows of the blues. His soulful bends, emotive vibrato, and impeccable timing make this song a timeless classic that continues to inspire guitarists worldwide.

Techniques Used

• Vibrato
• Bends
• Slides
• Double Stop Bends
• Unison Bends
• Trills
• Pull-offs
• String Bending

"Everyday I Have the Blues" is a blues masterpiece that showcases BB King's unparalleled guitar skills and his ability to convey deep emotion through his instrument. Aspiring blues guitarists can learn a great deal from studying this song, from the choice of chords to the masterful use of scales and techniques. BB King's legacy lives on through this song, a testament to the enduring power of the blues and the guitar mastery of one of its greatest legends.