How to Play the Beginning of Folksome County Blues on Guitar

Are you ready to dive into the world of blues guitar? The “Folksome County Blues” is an iconic song that has been a staple in the blues genre for decades. Mastering this song’s beginning can be a great starting point for any aspiring guitarist. In this article, we’ll break down the steps to play the start of this legendary tune on your guitar.

Understanding the Basics

Before diving into the specifics of “Folksome County Blues,” it’s essential to have a solid grasp of blues guitar fundamentals. This includes understanding the 12-bar blues structure, chord progressions, and common blues scales. If you’re new to playing the blues, consider starting with some beginner-friendly lessons to get a solid foundation.

Chord Progression Overview

The “Folksome County Blues” is built around a classic 12-bar blues progression in E. The chord sequence goes as follows: E – E7 – A7 – B7 – E – E7 – A7 – B7 – E – E7 – A7 – B7. Keep in mind that this song’s progression is a bit more complex than your average 12-bar blues, but it’s still achievable for intermediate guitarists.

Getting Started with the Beginning

Now that we’ve covered the basics and chord progression, let’s focus on getting started with playing the beginning of “Folksome County Blues.” This section is all about establishing a solid foundation and building momentum.

Lick 1: E Chord and Blues Scale

The song begins with an iconic lick that sets the tone for the rest of the tune. Start by playing an E chord (E major or E7, depending on your preference). Next, move to the blues scale (E, F#, G, B, D, E) and play a series of descending chromatic notes: E – Eb – Db – D – C# – B – A – G – F# – E. Repeat this pattern 2-3 times to get a feel for it.

Lick 2: E7 Chord and Double Stops

The second lick introduces the E7 chord, which adds a richer harmonic flavor to the tune. Start by playing an E7 chord (E major with a G# in place of B). Then, move to double stops using the notes on either side of the fretboard: 5th – 6th, 4th – 3rd, and so on. This will give you a sense of movement and tension.

Mastering the Beginning

Now that we’ve covered the individual licks, let’s put them together to create a solid foundation for the rest of the song. Start with the E chord and blues scale (Lick 1), then move into the E7 chord and double stops (Lick 2). Repeat this pattern several times to get a feel for the flow.

Practice Tips

To really nail the beginning of “Folksome County Blues,” focus on the following:

* Develop a strong sense of timing and rhythm. The blues is all about feel, so make sure you’re playing with a relaxed, laid-back vibe.
* Work on your chord transitions. Smoothly moving between chords will help create a cohesive sound.
* Experiment with different tones and amp settings to find the perfect blend for this song.

Conclusion

Mastering the beginning of “Folksome County Blues” is an excellent starting point for any aspiring blues guitarist. By understanding the basics, chord progression, and individual licks, you’ll be well on your way to playing this iconic tune like a pro. Remember to focus on developing your timing, chord transitions, and tone to really make this song shine.

Next Steps

Now that you’ve got the beginning down pat, why not take it to the next level? Try adding some fills or soloing over the changes. You can also experiment with different rhythms or tempos to give the song a unique spin. Whatever your approach, remember to always keep the blues spirit alive and well!