Beginning Blues Guitar Lesson - History of the Blues

The Blues evolved from the music of the African American community as a means of self expression. The term "the blues" refers to "the blue devils", melancholy and sadness. The term is often used to mean a depressed mood. Blues music has influenced every branch of modern music from Rock to Country. Musicians from all genres have been influenced by early Blues artists. Many aspiring musicians have been inspired to take blues guitar lessons after hearing the music of artists like Muddy Waters.

Traditionally, the lyrics of blues songs have been very simple. Originally, many songs consisted of a single line, repeated four times. Over time, this pattern evolved into the most common structure of a line, repeated one time then followed by a conclusion. The subject matter of traditional blues songs related to the personal struggles of the singer. Lost love, oppression and hard times were standard subjects. Some lyrics were humorous and raunchy. Music from the post World War II era focused on relationship or sexual problems.

Early blues music was not clearly defined in terms of which chord progressions were used. There were no formal blues guitar lessons, no typical methodology for learning the music. The first blues sheet music was published in 1912. "Dallas Blues" by Hart Ward was followed by W.C.Handy's "Memphis Blues". The origins of the blues dates was several decades earlier. Earlier works were not preserved however, partially because of the discrimination against Blacks even in academic circles. Despite having no recorded music, early musicians often taught themselves by following the lead of older musicians. While not formal blues guitar lessons, the genre was preserved as it was passed among musicians.

Modern music owes much to blues musicians like "Muddy Waters", "Howlin' Wolf" and other artists who migrated to Chicago from Mississippi in the 1950's. Their music, dubbed "electric blues" relied on bass guitars, harmonicas and drums. The influx of rural Blacks to urban areas fostered the growth of a new market for the music industry. The style was dubbed "Rhythm and Blues". Gospel, Jazz and Rhythm and Blues all began to enjoy more commercial success with this migration to the cities.

By the 1950's the blues were well recognized as a major influence on the music industry. Artists like Bo Diddley and Chuck Berry were greatly influenced by the Chicago blues sound. The energy of their enthusiastic playing seemed unrelated to the oppressive tone of earlier artists. By the end of the 50' s African American music was fully part of mainstream America in the form of Rock and Roll and Soul. Country music also has elements of the blues. Hank Williams, one of Country music's pioneers described himself as a blues musician.

Blues guitar lessons can help the beginner understand the rudiments of blues guitar techniques. Learning how to create the hypnotic beat of classic blues songs can be accomplished with a few lessons and a little practice. The blues are about personal interpretation. Blues guitar lessons can provide even a beginner with the ability to create an authentic sound.