Blues lead technique challenge

When it’s time to take a guitar solo you’ll need an arsenal of authentic techniques. Hone your chops with TG’s challenge…

1 Unisonbend

Hit both strings then bend the second string up to match the pitch of the note on the first string. 2 Quarter-tone bend Use your third finger to apply a very slight bend to the eighth fret note, releasing the bend before you re-pick. 3 Thirdfinge r vibrato Great for sustaining hammer-ons, slides, or just long notes. Oscillate your finger up and down in equal distances.

4 Three -fretbends

Albert King-style wide bends are essential for emotive blues soloing. Use three fingers to bend the string for best results.

5 Stringrakes

Fret the fourth string with your third finger and lay your first finger across the 5th fret, then simply drag your pick from low to high onto the fourth string. 6 Firstfinge r vibrato For authentic BB King style vibrato, your thumb should be away from the neck. Move your wrist quickly from side to side.

7 Doublestoplick

Use your second and third fingers for the first pair of notes, then use your first finger to barre across adjacent strings. 8 Sliding doublestops Use your second and third fingers to fret the doublestop, pick and slide up two frets, then slide back down to the 5th fret without re-picking.

9 Trills

Trills sound great, especially when slurring between the minor and major 3rd as shown here. Keep your first finger on the fretboard and trill with your second.

10 Ob liquebend

Keep your fourth finger on the second string and bend the third up a whole step using your second and third fingers. Slower bends create a dramatic effect.