Why I Sing the Blues - A Note-for-Note Guitar Lesson on the Iconic BB King Song

"Why I Sing the Blues" by B.B. King is an essential piece for any guitarist looking to dive deep into the world of blues. This song not only showcases King’s impeccable guitar technique but also embodies the emotional depth that blues guitar can achieve. At Licklibrary.com, our detailed note-for-note guitar lesson on this classic track will guide you through the intricate licks, techniques, and soulful expressions that make this song a timeless masterpiece. Whether you're a seasoned player or just beginning your blues journey, this lesson will enrich your understanding and enhance your guitar-playing skills. Lee Hodgson breaks down this iconic blues song in this exclusive Lick Library video tutorial.

B.B. King: The King of Blues

Riley B. King, better known as B.B. King, is one of the most influential blues guitarists of all time. His style, characterised by expressive string bends, smooth vibrato, and melodic phrasing, has inspired generations of guitarists across genres. King's ability to convey deep emotion through minimalistic yet powerful playing is what set him apart from his contemporaries. In "Why I Sing the Blues," B.B. King demonstrates his signature technique and musical sensibility, making it a must-learn for any aspiring blues guitarist.

The Guitar Techniques in "Why I Sing the Blues"

Our comprehensive guitar lesson for "Why I Sing the Blues" focuses on several key techniques that are crucial to mastering B.B. King’s style. Each technique is broken down in detail, ensuring that you not only learn how to play the song but also understand the mechanics behind each note and phrase.

1. Vibrato

B.B. King's vibrato is one of the most recognized in the world of blues. His smooth, controlled vibrato adds a vocal-like quality to his guitar lines, allowing each note to sing with emotion. In our lesson, you'll learn how to replicate King’s signature vibrato, which involves subtle finger movements and precise control. Mastering this technique will enable you to add expressive depth to your playing, making your guitar sing just like King’s.

2. String Bending

String bending is at the heart of B.B. King's style, and "Why I Sing the Blues" is a perfect example of how bends can be used to convey emotion. The lesson will guide you through various bends used in the song, from half-step to full-step bends, and teach you how to execute them with accuracy and feeling. By learning string bending, you’ll be able to add a dynamic and expressive element to your solos, capturing the essence of the blues.

3. Slides

Slides are another technique prominently featured in this track. They allow for smooth transitions between notes, creating a fluid, connected sound that is essential in blues playing. In our lesson, you’ll practice sliding techniques that B.B. King used to seamlessly move between phrases. Incorporating slides into your playing will help you develop a more cohesive and melodic approach to your solos.

4. Double Stops

Double stops, or playing two notes simultaneously, add a harmonic richness to King’s solos in "Why I Sing the Blues." The lesson will cover the specific double stops used in the song, teaching you how to use them to create fuller and more complex sounds. Learning this technique will broaden your harmonic vocabulary and give your solos a more textured feel.

5. Hammer-Ons and Pull-Offs

B.B. King often used hammer-ons and pull-offs to add fluidity and speed to his playing without sacrificing clarity. Our lesson will break down these techniques, showing you how to use them to embellish your phrases and add nuance to your playing. These techniques are essential for creating smooth, connected lines that flow effortlessly across the fretboard.

6. Bluesy Bends

Bluesy bends are a staple in B.B. King's playing, adding a gritty, soulful edge to his solos. This lesson will teach you how to perform these bends with the right amount of tension and release, emulating King’s ability to make his guitar "cry." By mastering bluesy bends, you’ll bring a raw, emotional quality to your solos that is quintessentially blues.

The Influence of the Players on "Why I Sing the Blues"

While B.B. King is the primary guitarist on "Why I Sing the Blues," his influence extends beyond his own playing. Throughout his career, King collaborated with many other legendary musicians, including the likes of Eric Clapton and Buddy Guy, who have cited him as a major influence. King’s ability to blend traditional blues with more modern elements helped shape the sound of contemporary blues and rock. Learning this song not only gives you insight into King’s genius but also connects you with the broader legacy of blues guitar.

Guitar Techniques Used in This Lesson

Here is a list of the guitar techniques that are covered in our "Why I Sing the Blues" lesson:

• Vibrato
• String Bending
• Slides
• Double Stops
• Hammer-Ons
• Pull-Offs
• Bluesy Bends

Learning these techniques will not only help you master "Why I Sing the Blues" but will also provide you with the tools to approach other blues songs with confidence and authenticity. Join us at Licklibrary.com and take your blues guitar playing to the next level!