Learn How To Play 12 Bar Blues Progressions

And three of the most important variations in different keys!

When it comes to playing the blues, there are three standard chord progressions to look at. Now, there is some debate over some of the terms and formats - but who cares? As long as you learn, you can call it whatever you like!

In this lesson, you'll learn the 12 bar blues and three different variations. You'll explore these variations in three other keys.With practice, you'll memorize all these different patterns, and it will be easier to play. It just takes practice to get there - like everything else! :)

Three Blues Bar Variations In Different Keys

Here are the 3 variations in 12 Bar Blues Progression that you'll explore.

The Standard 12 Bar Blues
The Quick Change 12 Bar Blues
The Slow Change 12 Bar Blues

Each of them uses those I, IV, and V chords. Since you'll be playing them in different keys, you'll use different chords each time. You'll also be using 7th chords - so make sure you're feeling confident with those grips. If you feel need it, practice them a bit before testing out these progressions!

🚨 In previous lessons, you learned that we name chords off of their scale degree. For example, the I chord is the first chord in the key or the same as the root note in the scale. In the Key of C, the I chord would be the C chord. The IV and V chords are the fourth and fifth degrees in the scale. In the Key of C, the IV chord is F (C - D - E - F), and the V chord is G (C - D - E - F - G).

We're going to be working in the Keys of A, E, and G. This way, so get ready to put those 7th chords into play!

Now that you know a bit of the theory - let's take a look at those 3 variations!

The Standard 12 Bar Blues

To learn this progression, go through it and play your strumming on the beat. Then - have a go at adding that shuffle strumming!

I    I    I    I
IV   IV   I    I
V    IV   I    V

At first - this might seem like loads of new chords to learn! Remember, but what you're going to find is that you develop a feeling for when it's time to change chords.

This might take a few weeks or months to happen, but you will eventually develop that feeling. It'll help you with all sorts of other awesome blues songs in the future!

The Quick Change Progression

This is all about that change to the IV chord in Bar 2 - that's what makes it a quick change! The Quick Change is all about that change to the IV chord in bar 2 - that's what makes it a quick change!

As soon as you're hip with the progression, start putting a bit of that shuffle rhythm you just learned!

I    IV   I    I
IV   IV   I    I
V    IV   I    V

🎶 This chord progression is very common! A great song example is Before You Accuse Me by Eric Clapton.

The Slow Change Progression

Some call this bar a standard Blues without a turnaround. You'll learn more about what that's all about in grade 3. Personally, calling it Slow Change seems is a more straightforward explanation.

I    I    I    I
IV   IV   I    I
V    V    I    I

How To Practice 12 Blues Bar

When you start practicing, focus on playing the progressions as they are. Memorize them before worrying too much about the strumming and rhythm.

The 'feel' of it all will come to you naturally the more you practice! As you get better with your shuffle feel, you should play the Blues with confidence!

Also, feel free to mix it up! Try playing the progressions in different keys - you don't have to stick to the pairings I've given you in the video.

💡 Remember - the blues are made for improvisation! It's all meant to be flexible and free-flowing. Once you've got the basics down, you have laods of creative freedom here.You'll find a list of Blues classics with 12 Bar progression in the blues songs for beginners lesson ! :)

What's your fav progression between the three? Log in and share the one you dig the most in the discussion area! Next lesson - you'll learn how to get started on your first beginner Blues solo!