Turn a Major Scale into CHORD PROGRESSIONS: The easy way

[@EternalOvercomer]

This is crazy! I have watched three of your videos and have had a massive breakthrough in my understanding of the basic theory . I'm afraid of signing up for your Patreon only to feel like I may drown when the theory goes deeper. You are an incredible teacher! Thanks!!!👏👏👏

[@ScottPaulJohnson]

Thank you! I think you'll find the pace of my Patreon is just right. Plus, I like to emphasize the goal of learning music theory: to understand how to make the music you like! I encourage my patrons to take part in a writing challenge every two weeks to practice making music with the knowledge you're learning. Try it out! www.scottpauljohnson.com/patreon

[@EternalOvercomer]

@@ScottPaulJohnson Thanks Scott, I plan on signing up. 😃👍

[@ScottPaulJohnson]

Did you join? How do you like it?

[@zeinghazal3235]

Please reply😂

[@EternalOvercomer]

@@ScottPaulJohnson I haven't yet. I have to figure out the payment process.

[@Ben-ly2eu]

WOW ... I have been playing for 50 years, never learned to read music. The thought of "Music Theory" made me put my guitar down. When I clicked on your video I wasn't planning on learning any "Theory". Without trying I just learned more theory in 15 minutes than I have in 50 years, and I am still holding my guitar.

[@wongong595]

I have to say that I can relate for SURE on your statement. So, I feel better that I'm not the only 1. Thanks for sharing!

[@northland..]

@@wongong595 same.

[@meliwanski1095]

Same here! Started playing in the 80s and learned by ear. Always wanted to have more of an understanding about theory, but hated it. Came across these vids and holy shit! He has a way of simplifying that makes it enjoyable to learn theory. This guy is a rockstar!!!

[@childrenoftheabzu]

If you know the alphabet you can understand theory. people act all egotistical about music theory and even gate keep. It is all actually pretty simple; as simple as the alphabet.

[@nickbrown8892]

Scott is the only teacher who has made me want to learn and understand music theory. Thank you so much.

[@Blake_takes_the_cake]

very true!

[@aleskerovw]

@@Blake_takes_the_cake if you guys still play, and for anyone reading this, you should check out ry naylor too. Him and Scott are hands down best teachers who would make you understand the fretboard, scales, chords, and how all of it is completely tied together.

[@Blake_takes_the_cake]

@@aleskerovw I will have to give a look. I don't play too much these days working hard on my KZbin career! Can't even find new songs to learn these days zzzz

[@VoodooBossanova]

Same!

[@r3art]

Fantastic. You're one of the best music theory channels for guitar players that I found so far (and I looked at a LOT of stuff).

[@ScottPaulJohnson]

Wow thats a bold statement. I am flattered completely.

[@joetroutt7425]

Yes

[@dingalingmatt]

Definitely agree!

[@moritzjacobi]

I agree. Other video tutorials are also doing the job, but as a beginner I definitely have most of my light bulb moments watching your channel.

[@RobKL2008]

@@ScottPaulJohnson Hi Scott did you make more videos after April 2019. What is your most recent. I cant find any new ones anymore. Hope you did not threw the towel in the ring 😁

[@morgonemusic3372]

If anybody is struggling to memorize the major scale, I came up with a nifty pneumonic device We Were Happy With What We Had (WWhWWWh) Hope that helps :)

[@ScottPaulJohnson]

I LOVE this thank you!

[@morgonemusic3372]

@@ScottPaulJohnson Of course dude! Thank you for the awesome video!

[@simongross3122]

Cute

[@raheelshayaan]

this is golden thank u

[@dream9831]

amazing, thanks haha

[@markrichyrichy]

I've been playing guitar for 5 years . I've watch hundreds of videos. I'd watch a video on theory and get confused and say screw it. I found you on here 3 days ago . I think I watched everyone of your videos and I have to say I am super excited to go back and watch them again and slow them down. By far the best KZbin teacher I have found. Can't wait for more videos !!!! Excellent work and presentation. You have me excited to dive in and put the time in.

[@TBJ934]

I started like two months ago with Marty from Marty Music and while I really enjoy his lessons and I’m super happy with the progress I’ve made, your videos are superior in my mind. The way you break down everything is almost tailor made for me I feel and I’m sure others feel the same way.

[@ScottPaulJohnson]

Thank you so much TBJ. I sincerely appreciate that. I'll try to keep breaking things down.

[@dannymanni1948]

TBJ934 100%. Best online teacher I’ve came across.

[@bradyboob]

This is because marty and along with 99% of all the other KZbin teachers are trying to get you to buy their course so they make it confusing on purpose meaning they give you a taste but don’t explain how it works unless you buy the course .

[@dannykeane6191]

I’d have to completely agree this it’s so clear and and in such manageable sections with all your videos (also your diner joke was great)

[@anthonyfish6365]

I have done and exactly that and SPJ for theory is the way to go. Is there a structured SPJ guitar course somewhere?

[@leifkeane]

The "Nerd Moment" with the progress bar was priceless. Nice.

[@yuliuswijayanto843]

Agreed, like a strength bar at computer games

[@wongong595]

I thought I was the only 1 noticing. Yep, it's something.

[@fabiopunk1661]

@@wongong595 agreed. I feel I am a nerd too. Stay away from diminished chords!

[@donaldewart2275]

I love your style of presenting Scott - very clear, and to the point - but friendly too. Keep doing what your doing, I'm learning lots!

[@randomdeer0]

I have never told anyone except my mother this but i love you scott

[@kellysdad2326]

I've seen so many youtube videos that taught guitar lessons, but this guy is the ONLY teacher who can relate to the needs of average guitar players... Some videos who taught the same were just showing off how good they played and not really trying to share their expertise... Keep up the good works bro... It meant a lot to us!!!! You're highly influential bro....

[@SlinkyJosh]

I've been playing guitar for 14 years and you're by far the best teacher I've found.

[@dirtywater5336]

It's astounding how easy you explain things to understand. Maybe it's just how I learn but breaking it down and explaining everything like I'm a kindergartener just works

[@markvoisey3031]

Scott you are a born teacher ! Best I’ve seen on here for years !

[@garbonix6372]

I've watched countless YT guitar videos for years. They've been helpful, but yours are next level. It took watching 3 of your videos for me to become a Patron. Thank you!!!!

[@warpig1957]

The best lesson on chords I’ve ever seen. There are so many “teachers” on KZbin that go into way too much technical stuff on chords but never show you how to do anything with them in the real world. Oh and the little piece you played as an outro was sweet.

[@ScottPaulJohnson]

Thanks so much Brian. The technical stuff is absolutely endless and I love it, but I like actually using it to create music even more. I'm going to try to find that balance between explaining technical stuff AND showing you practical ways to use it in your music compositions.

[@chugia6118]

can i get the detail strumming pattern you play in this video bro?!

[@louisloooo]

Dude your videos are incredible, you are just immense at explaining this stuff - I am so happy the KZbin algorithm sent you my way because there are so many rubbish, needlessly long guitar lessons out on there on this platform, that don’t hit the mark. (Mainly trying to sell you something). Please don’t stop making these videos!

[@joetroutt7425]

I understand you more than anybody else out there. Please continue making lessons.

[@kevindelk]

Your videos are such a light bulb moment!!! I've had all this info in my head but not really understanding it all. But now I'm amazed at it all. I hope you continue to put out great content. Thank you so much.

[@adrianoelvas4662]

Scott you were BORN to share knowledge! It's a true gift u have!

[@esmikelfive]

Very underrated channel. I'm really starting to notice how music works thanks to your theory lessons that are so well explained. I am definitely turning off adblocker for your videos.

[@lordbyronofbedford5183]

There are only a handful (or less) of teachers who know what to explain and how to explain it. The sign of a great teacher is one who makes complicated ideas seem simple. Your videos do all this. Thank you for the unique teaching and clarity.

[@scottmiller1226]

THIS right here is what is going to set you apart from the other teachers. Awesome video. I consider myself a halfway experianced guitar player, and this was still super informative. Really nice job my man!

[@ScottPaulJohnson]

Thanks fellow Scott. I'm glad I was able to help a seasoned player!

[@1518bert]

My goodness. Your videos are the breakthrough I've been searching for after YEARS of playing guitar. Thank you so much for making these! 🙌🏼🙌🏼🙌🏼

[@petebolam7777]

Brilliant. So clearly taught. My understanding has just turned a corner and I'm sure my playing will do the same. Thanks.

[@bluetunacult7674]

everyone of your videos are simply gold. To many great guitarists are good at explaining guitar theory to great guitarists, you have managed to explain it to novices in a clear and simple manner.

[@EFRANEED]

The diminished sounds amazing, just right to then finish in the key note.

[@andredracar]

Dude you don't know how you are helpful, don't stop being you, there's something of the way you speak that feels like my best friends is giving me a lesson and being so patient. For reals I wish you never get unmotivated and you keep creating more!

[@sh1n0d4baby]

notif on. waiting for that "1625 on A" lesson. thank you for your tutorials! it's easy to understand

[@chinpak5720]

Watched hundreds of guitar tutorial vids on 30-40 channels. Yours is BY FAR the best. please keep making more. I will be Patreon supporter

[@richardortega4308]

Dude. You are the f#@$ing man. For as simple as this may be it is hands down the most empowering piece of information I have come across for writing your own music as a beginner. In your caged video I asked for help with songwriting and I feel that many musicians that are well versed in theory get annoyed with questions like this because the complete answer is, all theory and technique will help you.... But it really doesn't translate, If you get my meaning. I don't frequently comment or recommend people to check stuff out but, I will definitely be sharing this with anyone I know that has interest in writing their own tunes. This is so cool to me because it makes musical expression accessible in a world where most guitarists (and instrumentalists in general) simply want to learn note for note someone else's shit! Music is art and expression is fun. Thanks for what you do and please keep it up!!! The subs will come, you are LEAGUES beyond much more "successful" KZbin teachers. As a final note I'll say-if you released a comprehensive musicians guide for guitar I would pay handsomely for it and if I was anywhere near you I'd pay for lessons in person. Really appreciate these videos. ✊🏽✊🏽✊🏽

[@ScottPaulJohnson]

Richard. Thank you so much. I have a hunch most teachers don't teach their students how to write music. I think it is the single most intrinsically motivating thing you can learn as a beginning musician. Its so much more inspiring to practice by writing music than it is to try to learn other people's songs. For me anyway.... I want this channel to be about creating music on guitar and I'm going to make sure that every piece of theory I give has some sort of creative element that goes with it. I'd love to write a book someday and I just might - especially if the subs start coming! I've been teaching private lessons for 18 years now and I'm ready to expand into the interwebs. Thank you for the encouragement and for being stoked about these videos.

[@olddriver1402]

Dude, just watched your Major Scales video and this one and damn, you're such a good teacher. Thank you so much.

[@mikeshields4091]

Hey Scott, can’t believe I just found your KZbin channel today. You R one of the best instructors I have found yet. I’ve been learning for about a year, but U R making lessons that R so easy to understand. Please keep up the gr8 work!

[@karstux]

For as long as I've played guitar, I've been asking myself: how the heck do I play something of my own that sounds coherent? Something that someone could improvise to? And here is the answer, and it's so simple. Thanks for an amazingly well made video!

[@riteshmallik4939]

i wish you come up with more and more guitar lessons..Truly Priceless!!

[@mikeurban7635]

After watching dozens of videos from other youtubers on theory and taking notes, and only ending up with more questions, you've answered most of those questions in two short videos. Brilliant job!

[@NicoLocoOMG]

It makes me emotional, the fact that you have the need to share all of your knowledge with others. An specially the fact that you help us to enjoy something that you trully love. Music is amazing

[@nemesiogonzalez6460]

You’re the first teacher I’ve seen it may the pentatonic scale make sense I appreciate it. Thank you so much.

[@retiredguyadventures6211]

Nice video! I'm an advanced newb and can see that the 1-4-5 chord progression is just using the 3 major chords in the major scales. I'm guessing that you don't have to strictly stay 1-4-5 though. Looks like you can change it up as much as you want as long as it sounds good and you can actually play the chord...

[@davidauld9489]

Best thing I’ve done is joined your Patreon Page Scott Music theory is explained in a way that is understood. What I always thought was difficult to understand is now far simpler.

[@ScottPaulJohnson]

david auld thank you david!

[@georgerino1861]

Would really like you to do a series on finger style....

[@rjg999]

AGREED!! That would be excellent! Please consider it Scott!

[@davidgsmithguitar]

Although I have played guitar for over 50 years I have never got into the theory much. Every time I try to understand it I get bored and give up. Your lessons actually keep my interest and it is making sense - well done and thanks!

[@Spriterom]

I want to know more about those diminished chords!

[@jeff58436]

The density and clarity of the information delivered in your videos is astounding.

[@kayendeartkayende9305]

hello from france , great job man ! could you tell me what is that song you played in the outro and where i could find the chords, please ?

[@ashstrat3640]

Brother; these instruction videos are the best I've found. Finally someone who can explain it so it's easy to get. I have had many now I get it moments with these. Please keep it up if you can, I know others I'll have start watching. Thank you.

[@valgladden3564]

Great, now everybody is going to know how to play guitar.

[@onethirty8]

Right? Drummers are the piece of the band I can never find.

[@charlesgulley1667]

I have been playing guitar since I was 8, never had a lesson.y dad taught me E,A7 and B7 and said that would get me started and then I just picked stuff up playing with who ever I could but always stayed clear of theory or anything like that and just focused on learning chords figuring I was a rythum guy. Then I stumbled on you video on the cage system and it totally made sense! Since then I have watched your other videos and just have to say I love the way you explain things in details that make sense. Thank you so much for taking the time to make these tutorials.

[@ayoubelgouriani7440]

please keep this video "dislike free"

[@stephenmassey9159]

You are nailing it! Been playing and struggling to understand the theory in a way that’s digestible for years now. I now feel like I can move forward in the way I wanted to all along. Thank you!

[@northland..]

seriously... Scott Paul Johnson, your an AWESOME person. all your videos actually make sense. i enjoy every single one. especially the nerd moments. You make the guitar ...so easy to comprehend.

[@ricardoflores3626]

dude. i love you for this. you make music theory so simple when i thought it would be one of the hardest things ever

[@lepetitprince2188]

Out of all these guitar tutorial channels, yours are the one I find most useful and less gimmicky. Keep it up. Kudos.

[@BcomingHIM]

I will mark this video as the one where all the small things I have repeatedly learned over past few months about music theory....finally clicks. the notes, scales, chords, major to minor, all the basic important things are finally making sense as a bunch. Thanks to you and all the people who teach guitar and other music stuff for free. My next goal is to identify the key of a song and most importantly how to convert them so that my singing can match the guitar sound.

[@nicdarcie1295]

I listened to 3 of your videos and learned more than I have in 8 years I have listened to many courses online and just never understood the neck - you explained it perfectly Thank you

[@bharatbheesetti1920]

You're by far the best content creator for guitar I've seen on KZbin. No disrespect to the others, because I've learned a ton from their videos as well, but there's a clarity and simplicity you bring that makes things that much easier. Please keep making content. You have a loyal subscriber in me!

[@stacyphelps4887]

I'm a beginner (guitar & Piano) ... but I enjoy your work here it completely relaxes me and helps me put all of this work I've done so far make sense, 56 yrs old and teaching myself ... background in music from 2nd grade to 14th ie college - Trombone ... but haven't played since and I am loving this Scott, Thanks ... simple and be your self ... it makes it more comfortable to understand

[@mns8732]

Some people are gifted teachers. You are among that rare group. Thanks for a clear lesson in this case and also in your practicing bar chords video.

[@TheRhoaric]

I have not been taught guitar or piano in 20 years. My grandmother taught me piano from a book and it didn't stick. My 7th grade guitar teacher put me on soloes and back ground on both piano and 2nd guitar. Tabs don't work and books don't stick. I've had more revelations in 3 of your videos that in all the years of practice so far. Age and experience help but having these things taught like this is so engaging and really hits the target. I'm not sure if music theory was even available in my younger years but this would have been the course for me!

[@bobfortner7889]

You are talking about some things we have all done.but never thought of it as any value.My mind gets so tired of trying to follow some teachers till I finally just shut it out.But you are an easy rambler and I find myself just rambling with you and my mind isn't burned out after the lesson. I have begun to pick up on a few really really simple things that I had just missed over the years.I like your style.

[@devanvines9384]

I really like the way you put these lesson videos together. I like how you break it down to the smallest details. The majority of people won't do that. They'd rather Zoom past it and assume that the student understood everything. Your work is much appreciated

[@lptribute7544]

The talent of this guy is not that he can play a guitar but how he explain complex stuff on a beginner level. 4 thumbs up!!! (toes included)

[@EricTalwin]

I have taken several years of guitar lessons and practiced many more on my own and this is the first time I have ever had this stuff click in my head, and even more importantly, see why its useful for me to know it. Thanks!

[@YoussefFawzi]

That’s amazing way to approach this. Also when you learn the chord functions, and why some chords lead to others, it gets more interesting!

[@66616136]

Scott thanks for the detailed & simplistic explanation..I have known the major scale for years now & never occurred to me that the chord progression lies in the notes of the scale. And yes, thanks for making it so easy to understand.

[@arnoldvillamero2323]

You're making a difference in the guitar world community or in the world brother! Thank You and God bless you!

[@carabao925]

I think you are one of the best guitar teacher on KZbin. You are precise, clear and with just the right speed the way you explain things. So clear easy to understand and the right concept that the students relying on youtube to learn guitar can understand. Keep up the good work.

[@johnmckenna5521]

Dude at the end of all your videos you say let me know if this sounds interesting.... dude dont stop making these videos they are absolutely incredible and help astronomically

[@stevehuynh1369]

Wow! I play guitar for a long time(self learning) and now understand chord progressions. Thank you very much.

[@pietromorosini9851]

i did laugh at the minor-diner rhyme. Im also taking the time to thank you for having the best youtube contents on guitar that has ever existed on planet Earth. U dont know how much your videos are making me happy in these challenging days, it all CLICKS. I genuinely watched every single content multiple times taking notes and I am seriously thinking about joining the Patreon course. You really are the hero that we, guitar noobs, need but dont deserve.

[@pietromorosini9851]

p.s. i also thank the youtube algorithm for bringing me to you. GG YT

[@samvelasquez]

DON'T STOP!!!! You are one of the best channels!!!!! thank you!

[@Toonami94]

Thank you so much for taking the time to explain how chord progressions works. Didnt realize how much folks overcomplicate this stuff.

[@patrickgreen8739]

You're the best Scott! Seriously I've learned so much in just 3 videos, and its so much fun! I'm now able to play along to Jam tracks in any key a person could name, and create scale based chord progressions to write original music to. Something as simple as being able to find the major and minor keys from the low E string has been game changing for me. Been playing with jam tracks so long my fingers hurt. And the PDFs! Bloody hell mate, I hope you know just how awesome and helpful you are!

[@jynx-vu2zc]

THANK YOU !!!!!!!! I have been trying to learn Guitar forever. I know all the mechanics , I can learn someone elses song. and I understand the theory's but never understood how to put it into practicle use. Your videos just opened up a whole new world for me. sorry to see you haven't made more

[@timsherman8701]

You are brilliant best instruction for me. I’m a 74 year old beginner (3 yrs into journey)

[@mikesurridge1176]

Great lesson scot if viewers struggle to remember chord order they can remember the 1, 4 and 5 chord are major and the 2 3 and 6 chord are minor and 7th diminished

[@andresgalisteo]

Scott, love your straight forward style of explaining everything! Couldn't sleep the other day when i found one of your videos, got hooked, you have a very clear way of explaining theory! Happy to have found your channel

[@ryanabel002]

I started enjoying playing guitar, after watching your videos, thanks for pulling me out of chords and into real music!!!!

[@popsirup]

Great! 20 years I have got no Idea what I was doing when I wrote songs. Your lessons are very helpful, funny and easy to understand. Great!

[@ACJones-mw1go]

Crraaaazzzyyy. I’ve never understood how/why chords go together and how artists write their stuff…until now. Thank you this is awesome, easily understandable and enjoyably edited.

[@julianlopez1978]

You explain everything so clearly and your subtle humor keeps me engaged. Phenomenal!

[@xeranox]

I just binge watched some of your videos and I have to say these are probably among the most efficient guitar teaching videos I've come across. A lot of things finally clicked after watching. Great work!

[@lawsonstanfill5181]

I really appreciate that you watered things down enough for someone with very little experience to understand. Great lesson, thanks!

[@jonvenner6319]

Scott, I'd just like to say thank you. Listening to you explaining something I've been struggling with for literally years is like bleach being dripped into ink. All of a sudden it becomes crystal clear. You are one in a million and I wish you all the success in the world.

[@Edsamnails5518]

It took me forever to reach here... best tutorials you would ever find on KZbin.. thanks Scott all the way from Kenya 👏👏👏

[@watchbugshananigans1393]

I wasn’t going to comment because I see hundreds of the same thing said but dude you’re doing great, these videos are incredibly clear, concise, and to the point. Super helpful my friend please keep doing what you are doing!

[@robertacossey2948]

Your teaching is what I have been looking for for years. I am analytical and my brain seems to need to know why we do what we do musically. Thanks!

[@duanevoss1]

I have to agree with everyone on here. Yiu are one of the best at understanding theory. I have watched 3 of your videos and I understand so much more about playing the guitar that when I started. Keep teaching PLEASE!!

[@Blake_takes_the_cake]

you have honestly saved my life with how easy you make it to understand this stuff

[@LeeRandyG]

Scott, my friend, that was awesome. "Smack Down" buddy. I too, have been playing many years and am just now getting into theory and you have explained this better than anyone I've asked. People look no further subscribe to Scott Paul Johnson's channel. Thanks Scott.

[@omarflores9520]

Been trying to get back into guitar after being in a depressed state for a while and your videos have been helping me focus and practice to create and remind again how fun and rewarding it is to create music 🎶 🙏

[@chrispitts3754]

Scott, I stumbled on your site a couple of weeks ago, having ( like many other people) been on loads of others, and you grabbed my interest, for a number of reasons. 1. I love your natural, relaxed style and your sense of humour. You make me smile! 2. I love the way that you that you break things down into simple bits, and then illustrate how each bit fits and interacts with the others. Music theory makes sense for the first time in 66 years! 3. I love the graphics and the video sets that are the best that I've seen; the combination of clear explanation matched by visualisation of each point facilitates understanding and learning. 4. I love the way that you drop in some really helpful "homework" sheets, which really help to consolidate what you've just explained. ...most of all I love the fact that you enjoy doing what you do and are continually asking your subscribers what they are looking for.

[@accentedreality]

You are THE BEST teacher for that blend of music theory and practical lessons. Currently using this and your major pentatonic scales to take a big step into the theory realm.

[@donpowers9838]

Thank you Scott. I am looking forward to watching all your material. I have struggled learning by memoizing the shapes because i want to understand the "why" behind it all. You have explained it better than I have ever heard. I am having progress and eager to learn again.

[@Physeter]

It has taken me so long to find someone who explains in a way that's understandable. Thank you for everything! I'll be sharing your channel if you don't mind, you deserve way more viewers with how you do everything. Kind regards!

[@emoryhorace982]

Oh boy, that last chord progression was so beautiful , please make a lesson and show it for us!

[@cedricmataso2446]

Am absolute beginner and since my teacher seems to not having time, I decided to solo learn the guitar, and you just make things clear for me . thank you

[@anthonystella6412]

Thankyou! Ive been looking for a channel like yours for years! The breakdown of each concept is so much easier to grasp than other videos and you keep everything so focused

[@johnjackgale]

Absolutely brilliant Sir! I've been watching a bunch of your video lessons and have had multiple epiphanies! I've been 'trying' to play the guitar for 40+ years without knowing this stuff simply because it has always been presented in an overly complicated way. I feel like a newbie who just woke up with callouses on my finger tips, some serious rhythm chops and the ability to play lots of chords . . . now I actually know which ones to play together and how they relate to notes. Thank you!

[@brookbirhanuu5331]

My God you seem simple man, what I mean is you try to explain things simply but all things you talk are so so expensive and valuable. I saw a lot of vedios no a single vedio is close to your. Thank you, man

[@ScottPaulJohnson]

Thanks so much

[@brookbirhanuu5331]

I have 1 question. Now I am able to construct my chord progression. Thanks to u. When I follow the rule major-minor-minor - major - major - minor-diminished then I will get six chords... Then the question is.. Is there any some rules to pick some chords from those six major och minor chords when I play song. You chose 4 chords in your vediou.. Was is just random or deliberate. How in that case?

[@lukeguillot3463]

You can pick them randomly on what sounds good to you. Some of the chords do sound if they “resolve” better and they can have more tension or build up and they resolve to root chord. Play the I-IV-V chords together in any key and see how it sounds.