Blues Guitar 101
basic shuffle pattern

Next, instead of strumming the chords we will play a common basic blues pattern. Replace every measure with the corresponding measures below.

These patterns can be played in 2 different feels

1. straight eighth note feel.

2. shuffle or swing eighth note feel.

Keep your 1st finger down on the 2nd fret during the pattern and stretch your third finger up to the 4th fret. That way all you have to do is lift off your 3rd finger and your 1st is already in place.

A pattern

D pattern

E pattern

These patterns are based on open position 2 note power chords. Therefore on the last A at the end of the song play a open A 2 note power chord

straight feel

shuffle feel

For some basics of how to play lead in the blues see improvisation 101.

Blues 101, page 1