Session 2 : Paying Your Dues

Whole-Step Bends

In the blues, some great places to do a whole-step
bend are from...

• the 2nd up to the major 3rd.


• the flatted 3rd to the 4th.


• the 4th to the 5th.


• the 5th to the 6th.


• the flatted 7th to the root.

(^)

Major Scale Exercise

This is a very helpful exercise for playing a major scale using whole-step bends. Finger numbers are indicated

in the circled numbers. Notice the fingering changes in the ascending and descending version.

Double Bends

Another option for bends that works particularly good with whole-step bends are double bends. This is where
two notes are being played at the same time and one of them is a bent note. While there are several
combinations that work well, a very common type is demonstrated in the session.

As demonstrated in the example given in the session, the 4th of the chord or key is being bent up to the 5th
while the flatted 7th is also played.

These notes are played in various rhythms in the session but here is the basic melodic line on the three
chords of the C blues--C7, F7, & G7.

Playing Tip

When bending...

• Use the other fingers for
  support in pushing up the string.


• Bring thumb slightly up behind
  the neck for added support.

Blues Guitar with Steve Krenz 29 http://www.learnandmaster.com/bluesresources