Easy Riffs to Killer Solos

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► Full Riffs to Solos Lesson here: www.harmonica....
Here are the 3 steps to go from knowing harmonica riffs to knowing how to solo:
Step 1: Build up your blues muscle by improvising the heck out of the easy riffs you’ve just learned
Step 2: Learn some basics about solo’s
Step 3: Put it all together: Riffs + Basics = Solo
Here are the 6 blues harmonica riffs that we learned in the last lesson:
1.) -4 4 -4 -3 -2
1.1.) -4-4 4 -4 -3 -2
1.2.) -4 4 -4 -3 -2 -2
2.) 4 4 -3 4 -3
3.) -1 2 -2 -1 -4
3.1) -1 2 -2
4.) -5 5 -4 -3 -2
5.) -2 -2 2 3 2 -2 -1 -1
6.) 6 5 -4 4 -3 -4 5 6
1.) Repeat It:
Let’s vary it each time, using the two variations I showed you, and we get this: -4 4 -4 3 -2 -4 -4 4 -4 -3 -2 -4 4 -4 -3 -2 -2
2.) Reverse It
Riff #1 backwards: -2 -3 -4 4 -4
With variations: -2 -3 -4 4 -4 -2 -2 -3 -4 4 -4 -2 -3 -4 4 -4 -4
3.) Add Dynamics (Louder or Quieter)
4.) Make it longer - add or repeat notes
Using notes from the riff -4 4 -4 -3 -2 -3 -4
Using notes from the “Almost Blues Scale” -4 4 -4 -3 -2 2 -1
Using even more notes from the scale:-4 4 -4 -3 -2 2 -1 2 -2 -3 -2
5.) Make it shorter - don’t play one or more note
Take riff #5 -2 -2 2 3 2 -2 -1 -1 and just play -2 -2 2 3 2, and repeat it:
6.) Play with the phrasing (change the rhythm of it) (MICRO)
Riff #4 for example: -5 5 -4 -3 -2. We played that with every note on the beat except anticipating the last note.
But we could also also play the first 2 notes really fast then the rest on upbeats
Or we could play the first 2 notes really long and then rush the ending
7.) Play with the phrasing (where in the form it occurs) (MACRO)
So we’ve examined phrasing on a micro level: the rhythm and duration of the notes within the riff.
Now, on a more macro level, where do we start and stop a given riff within the form. Which of the three 4-Bar phrases in the 12-bar blues? Which bar within that phrase? Which beat within that bar? These are all fall within the principle of phrasing.
STEP 2: Understand & Get Some Solo Basics Down
1.) Draw more than blow (great 2nd position solos are usually 80-90% draws)
2.) Use S P A C E (silence draws people in)
3.) Use dynamics (quiet draws people in)
4.) Tell a story
Think of playing a Blues harmonica solo like telling a story. Every story has a beginning, a middle, and an end. So should your solo. This is why I keep harping on memorizing the 12-Bar Blues form..
STEP 3: Putting it All Together: RIFFS + BASICS = SOLO
In order to get a feel for how these riffs might be used in a solo, I thought it would be cool to play a solo together incorporating all these riffs. We will play 2 Choruses, meaning 2 times through the 12-Bar form.
CHORUS 1:
PHRASE 1: Riff 1: -4 -4 4 -4 -3 -2 Riff 1: -4 4 -4 -3 -2 -2
PHRASE 2: Riff 2: 4 4 3 4 3 Riff 1: -4 4 -4 -3 -2 -2
Riff 3 starts at the end of phrase 2 and ends at the beginning of phrase 3: -1 2 -2 -1 -4
PHRASE 3: Riff 4: -5 5 -4 -3 -2 Riff 5: -2 2 3 2 -2 -1 -1
CHORUS 2:
PHRASE 1: -45 Trill Riff 4: -5 5 -4 -3 2
PHRASE 2: Riff 2: 4 4 3 4 3 Riff 1: -4 4 -4 -3 -2 -2
Riff 3 starts at the end of phrase 2 and ends at the beginning of phrase 3: -1 2 -2 -1 -4
PHRASE 3: Riff 4: -5 5 -4 -3 -2 Riff 6: 6 5 -4 4 -3 -4 5 6
All of these simple blues harmonica riffs exist within the context of the Almost Blues Scale, so if you haven’t learned it yet, now would be a cool time to check out Level 2 of my Easy Blues Scale lesson, because knowing these riffs, you’ll see how they all fit within the “Almost Blues Scale” and that context will help you memorize and embellish these harmonica riffs, as well as make up your own.
Thanks for watching this free lesson on turning harmonica riffs into harmonica solos!
Rock on,
Luke

[@tykosandell8641]

I’m 67 years old and my father gave me a Blues Harp Harmonica when I was like 13 years old, but it’s not until now that I’ve seen the best lesson ever how to use it the right way……….just excellent!! Thank you! Keep on!! /Tyko from Sweden 🙌

[@Harmonicacom]

Right on Tyko! Glad you're rocking and rolling. (And hey, KZbin didn't exist when you were 13, by the way! 😉) Rock on! 😎 You got this! 👊🏼

[@BKBees]

The production value of these vids just keeps going up. Love it.

[@Harmonicacom]

Aw right on. Thanks you. Much appreciated!

[@JoeBananas77]

Not sure what May jo was trying to say BUT let me say this, this is the best KZbin video I've seen since trying to learn the harp. Well done Luke.

[@Harmonicacom]

Aw, thanks Joe! Glad the vid helped! Rock on. 👊🏼

[@charlesterski1461]

This was a great lesson! Definitely raised my playing skill to another level. Thanks so much! Hope to see more like this! Cheers!

[@Harmonicacom]

WOO HOOO!!! Now THAT'S what I love to hear, Charles! Thanks for the note. Rock on!

[@HunterSentinel]

Blues is a practice in improvisation and creativity. One of my favorite ways of practicing those traits!

[@Harmonicacom]

Amen, Hunter! I totally agree! 🤘🏼

[@garymccormack9106]

Thanks Luke. Another fantastic lesson. I'm 61 and only took it up 1 month ago and have found your lessons very useful and a great fun. Seriously considering going for your Beginner to Boss course. Thanks, All the best Gary, all the way from Bonnie Scotland

[@Harmonicacom]

Sweet! Visiting Scotland is on my bucket list. Glad the vids are helping. Hope to see you in the Beginner to Boss course Gary. Either way, HAPPY HARPING!!! 🎶

[@TioBruxo]

I discovered the channel a little while ago and I'm surprised with the awesome material you give in your videos, I'm Brazilian and I'm having a hard time learning the bend, and learning some songs a little simpler but well structured, it has helped a lot...

[@Harmonicacom]

Thank you very much! Rock on meu irmao!

[@HarpoonDon]

Luke, as always, this lesson is right on track. You definitely rock!

[@Harmonicacom]

Thanks Don! Glad you're digging the vids....

[@lyesbelkacem-fissa7455]

Great presentation and lesson. I'll be building my blues muscles by the beach later on! You are the harmonica encyclopedia. Cheers

[@Harmonicacom]

Ha, nice Lyes! Have fun! 😎 Thanks for the kind words. Rock on.

[@rodfredericks1939]

Hey Luke , Thanks for this, the perfect lesson for us beginners. Its all about breaking it down to manageable bites and practising a lot.🤪

[@Harmonicacom]

Yes, Rod exactly! You've got it my bro. Glad it was helpful! 🙏🏼

[@JBCavern]

This is great! I have a love of noodling by trying to play along with the music I'm listening to and will often try to find a riff for the song as it plays. (I know it's not the best way to learn, but it's fun!) Thanks, Luke.

[@Harmonicacom]

No, that's actually a great way to learn! Keep up the great work! 😎 Fun is the name of the game.

[@KevinTarrant-lb1ek]

Thanks Luke! Excellent lesson. Just what I was hoping to learn.

[@Harmonicacom]

Glad to hear it Kevin. Makes my day. Rock on!

[@chakaula8642]

From a teacher to a teacher: EXCELLENT INSTRUCTION! Thanks

[@Harmonicacom]

Aw, right on. Much appreciated. 🙏🏼

[@rhmtoo]

Spot on, once again! You da man, Luke. I love New Blue 😂 👍

[@Harmonicacom]

Thanks, Bobby! 👍 Oh that's "Noob Luke" cause he's a newbie, lol. Kinda grumpy, but he's got a good heart. 😉

[@attilakerekes1634]

Thank you!!! This was a PERFECT LESSON!!!

[@Harmonicacom]

right on Attila. Glad it helped. You are very welcome.

[@cory9884]

Thankyou for making this. Great instruction.

[@Harmonicacom]

Thanks for watching!

[@sheunglok8712]

Thanks so much. Extremely helpful.

[@Harmonicacom]

You're welcome. It's my pleasure. Rock on! 😎

[@enriqueperez3401]

👏👏👏 El mejor tutorial de armonica para principiantes..👍👌

[@Harmonicacom]

🙌🏼

[@grandpastime]

These videos are great. Watched them a little out of order, but playing a couple riffs made me think this was possible

[@Harmonicacom]

Woo hoo! YOU CAN DO IT! 🙌🏼

[@grandpastime]

@@Harmonicacom I'll see what Noob Luke has to say

[@harpdreamermusic]

Wow, your new Video Style is very good and modern. 👍🤟🎙️

[@Harmonicacom]

Thanks Astrid! I'm getting better, yes? 😉

[@warmlampworkshop]

Thanks a lot! That's a really useful tips for me!

[@Harmonicacom]

Glad it was helpful! you're welcome.

[@robertbatchelor3977]

Fun fantastic and a rewarding session. Thanks ❤

[@Harmonicacom]

Chee hoo! 🤙🏼 Glad you enjoyed it! Rock on! 😎

[@robgilbert6976]

Love this Luke, thank you

[@Harmonicacom]

RIGHT ON ROB!! Good stuff. Glad you enjoyed it. Keep on rocking...

[@lerncoaching4594]

Thank you Luke - the first idea: Riff 1 / 1.1 and 1.2 - I played this moment and I repeated over and over and over ...

[@Harmonicacom]

Niiiiiiice. That's how. Rock on. 🤘🏼

[@carlostrujillom]

great video!

[@Harmonicacom]

Thanks Carlos!

[@_Jensinger_]

Luke...i did it! Yesterday i played kinda this at a jam Session and kicked the crowds a**! It was my first time playing in Front of another Person...(bout 50 people) awesome!!! Thank you so much for this lesson!

[@Harmonicacom]

Aw man makes my day bro. Rock on! 😎🎶

[@billbowdoin7541]

Love the way you teach!

[@Harmonicacom]

I'm so glad!!

[@hjeffwallace]

Thanks for adding real notation!

[@Harmonicacom]

👊🏼

[@mozzikum]

Amazing lesson! You got me inspired!

[@Harmonicacom]

Glad to hear it!

[@chadzanca6423]

Ya Luke this is fire. QQ: what beat per minute are you using for this track?

[@Harmonicacom]

Hey Chad - thanks man. Glad you like. Can remember exactly - right around 100 BPM. Rock on!

[@freonsp]

Thanks for the lesson

[@Harmonicacom]

My pleasure!

[@michaelm2494]

Really appreciate all your postings; inspiring and so helpful for an older guy late to the instrument. Love it

[@Harmonicacom]

Right on! You got this! 👊🏼

[@BobanSvrsic]

This guys seems just kind, he makes me wana lear to play harmonica more

[@Harmonicacom]

Glad to hear it. You should definitely play more! 🙌🏼 Rock on! 😎

[@estudio-ar]

Es muy bueno y divertido, gracias!

[@Harmonicacom]

No hay de que mi amigo

[@oneill180]

Awesome lesson. 👏

[@Harmonicacom]

Glad you liked it!! 🙌🏼

[@ArcadioJacobino]

Cheers. I'm nicking these techniques and applying them to the penny whistle. See what the leprechauns make of that, will ye! Oh, and I'm sending off for a Special 20 coz this is addictive.

[@Harmonicacom]

Nice! Great choice. Rock on! 😎

[@edisoncardosodasilva4114]

Maravilha, muito obrigado por nós ajudar

[@Harmonicacom]

So glad you liked it. My pleasure!

[@joshgrey7961]

Thanks for the video mate

[@Harmonicacom]

You bet, Josh. Glad you liked it. 👍🏼

[@furiousz555]

Man, this be awesome! seriously

[@Harmonicacom]

So glad. 🙏🏼🎶

[@ecisnandihakim2636]

easy to learn, thanks bro

[@Harmonicacom]

My pleasure! Glad it helped my friend.

[@PavelM554]

Thanks, bro. I figured out why I get a complete fuck-up - draw-blow-draw-blow-draw-blow =)

[@Harmonicacom]

HA! Yeah, that's a huge one!

[@clausbader9537]

Great lesson. Where we get the back track you have used?

[@Harmonicacom]

Glad you liked it! Here ya go: soundcloud.com/user-58351614/chicago-blues-backing-track-in-g-slow?in=user-58351614/sets/6-easy-blues-riffs-anyone-can-play&si=b8271a12685541ee839d4176dfa816f1&

[@clausbader9537]

@@Harmonicacom Thanks 🙏👍

[@ИльфирКутлиахметов-н6и]

Thank you!!!

[@Harmonicacom]

You're welcome!

[@LukasMllr]

Great Lesson! 😂❤

[@Harmonicacom]

Glad you think so, Lukas! Rock on. 😎

[@ralgor100]

I like this one Luke, but where are the bloopers?🤣

[@Harmonicacom]

🤣 I know I haven't had any funny bloopers lately. I need to start messing up more!

[@ИльфирКутлиахметов-н6и]

Very Good 👍!!!

[@Harmonicacom]

Thank you! Cheers!

[@maurocristofari1622]

Si potrebbe avere i tuoi video corsi con i sottotitoli o tradotto in italiano ? E sapere il costo grazie

[@ИльфирКутлиахметов-н6и]

Большое спасибо Продолжайте также

[@Harmonicacom]

Right on. thanks!

[@robgilbert6976]

Hi Luke, is there a backing track to go with this great tutorial?

[@Harmonicacom]

Hey Rob - yeah if you scroll to the bottom of this page you'll see the link to the final solo www.harmonica.com/riffs-to-solos/ Is that what you wanted?

[@robgilbert6976]

Luke, at the bottom you're playing over the backing track. The backing track on its own would be good for me to practice playing the licks over.

[@robgilbert6976]

Hi Luke, I would like to download the backing track so I can use it off-line as I'm sure others would like to.

[@kebzgamingyt6125]

any recommendation best harmonica to buy for beginner?

[@Harmonicacom]

Here ya go: www.harmonica.com/which-harmonica-to-buy/

[@kebzgamingyt6125]

@@Harmonicacomthank you

[@Dave-Rough-Diamond-Dunn]

I've just realised, if you shut one eye, each riff only has half as many notes! Practising has been much easier since I picked up that little trick.

[@Harmonicacom]

🤣 Good one Dave!

[@Dave-Rough-Diamond-Dunn]

@@Harmonicacom I guess practising sober is another option! 😁

[@Dave-Rough-Diamond-Dunn]

While I finally have your attention, I've logged out, and I'm still getting notifications. For the moment, I'd rather not be in the forum, but it seems like there's no way to leave, and stop the notifications that piss me off. I didn't join to be attacked.

[@michaeljacquin9036]

Hey luke ! What is the backing track from your video ? (12m25)

[@Harmonicacom]

soundcloud.com/user-58351614/chicago-blues-backing-track-in-g-slow?in=user-58351614/sets/6-easy-blues-riffs-anyone-can-play&si=b8271a12685541ee839d4176dfa816f1&

[@licandres01]

Awesome video, it felt a little rushed or speeded up at times, I don't mean the harmonica parts.

[@Harmonicacom]

Yeah, I'm trying to edit the vids so they're a lil more fast paced cos most people are getting bored with them and not watching them till the end, and I figure you can always slow it down or rewind it if needed.

[@licandres01]

@@Harmonicacom that's a good thing to do, harmonica guys are fond of rambling 20 minutes about any topic, I applaud the effort!

[@Minainesplosa]

Quale backing track per questi esercizi?

[@Harmonicacom]

soundcloud.com/user-58351614/chicago-blues-backing-track-in-g-slow?

[@Minainesplosa]

@@Harmonicacom grazie😊

[@JBert246]

“Excercise” 😊

[@Harmonicacom]

💪🏼

[@patrickvandenheuvel5852]

Great

[@Harmonicacom]

Thanks for watching Patrick! 😎🙌🏼🎶

[@mattlawyer3245]

The use of space in the blues is most obvious in the "call and response" structure inherited from the old-time African-American spirituals. Are there other ways to use space that do not conform strictly to this structure?

[@Harmonicacom]

Hey Matt - that's an astute observation about space relating to the call and response thing. I would just say you can put space ANYWHERE in the form and have it be effective. It makes people lean forward thinking, "what's gonna happen next?"

[@ernestopenashaw7601]

Amazinf

[@Harmonicacom]

Glad you like Ernesto!

[@Duende402]

How does Luke look the same as he did 10 years ago?

[@Harmonicacom]

LOL! 2 words. Beard dye. 😉 Thanks for watching. 🙏🏼

[@vandre5588]

Show

[@Harmonicacom]

Show?

[@maysoe3970]

Hi , i think , no see alittle long to u. I hope u'lesson bro

[@Harmonicacom]

Don't worry 😎

[@_uchiha]

​​​@@Harmonicacom how did you understand that?

[@carolynyoung857]

Instead of playing a G scale on a C harp, why don't you just get a G harmonica???

[@Harmonicacom]

It's called 2nd position. It's what makes the harmonica sound bluesy. 1st position sounds folksy.

[@carolynyoung857]

@@Harmonicacom Ahhh. I see. Thank you - I have been wondering about that. xoxo

[@jungleebushcraft]

Allways the boring intro's

[@Harmonicacom]

🤣 Sorry! I'm trying to shorten them...

[@jungleebushcraft]

@@Harmonicacom Oh man...he's talking again! Silence...i kill you. 💀 Let the music talk.