So now that you're tearing it up in all the patterns we need to start exploring how to move horizontally through the patterns. For many people, this is pretty tricky to begin with so don't be disappointed if it is for you too!

I recommend starting real simple, going back to the key of A and working on just the thinnest string for a while and really getting the 'dots' into your mind.

1. Do a solo using just the notes on the thinnest string, no bends or anything fancy - just making sure you get the right notes!

2. Once you're comfortable with that revise what notes can take bends and curls and try exploring that a while.

3. Then maybe start exploring using slides and any other technique based tricks that might help you milk the most from it.

4. When you really feel like you've exhausted the possibilities, try the same process on string 2!

Playing on only one string is 'overly restrictive' and it can be very difficult to make things sound natural and cool like that. You'll probably have more 'musical' success allowing yourself to play on 2 strings, but the one string thing is the most powerful exercise.

Do remember to try to keep it musical - SPACE is your friend :)

Additional Resources

Recommended Album
Remember that listening to great Blues is an essential part of the course, so try and check out all my recommended albums, they're the best of the best!

Elmore James - The Sky Is Crying

The Sky Is Crying (obviously on this album) has become a blues standard. Elmore was a slide guitar master and he had a few phrases which seem to appear pretty often, but he's the real deal and one of those cats that you need to listen to and soak in some of that blues feel.

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