Unlock Your Guitar Potential: Turbocharge String Bends and Elevate Pentatonic Licks with Blues Legend Larry McCray!
0 reactions
1 hour ago
Beatbounty
Larry McCray’s Blues Masterclass: From gospel moans to the Chicago shuffle – YouTube
Watch On
Larry McCray stands as a quintessential figure in contemporary blues, seamlessly blending tradition with innovation. for over thirty years, this rust Belt blues vocalist has championed the essence of electric blues, infusing it with soul and energy. Drawing inspiration from legendary predecessors, he has cultivated a distinctive guitar voice that is unmistakably his own.
His latest album, Heartbreak City, produced by the renowned Joe Bonamassa and Josh Smith, showcases a fusion of raw blues, vintage soul, and southern grit, all delivered through a weathered yet powerful vocal performance. this release serves as a poignant reminder that true blues guitar-anchored in emotion, phrasing, and storytelling-resonates most profoundly when it comes from the heart.
McCray’s musical heritage is evident,with his vocal style and guitar techniques reflecting the influence of the “three Kings”: B.B.,Albert,and Freddie. His ability to phrase like a vocalist and his masterful use of space and vibrato echo B.B. King’s style, while his sharp attack and wide tonal range draw from Albert King. Like Freddie, McCray is unafraid to play with intensity, yet he also channels the fiery spirit of Jimi Hendrix, combined with the rhythmic depth reminiscent of the Allman Brothers.
Steve Allsworth
Steve is a multifaceted guitarist and music educator from the U.K., having performed with artists such as Mica Paris, Lily Allen, Ronan Keating, Lulu, Westlife, and LeAnn Rimes. He balances his time between live performances in the West End and studio recordings, serving as BIMM London’s head of Live Performance Workshop. As a blues enthusiast, he is well-equipped to transcribe Larry’s techniques for this article.
In McCray’s guitar work,you’ll discover the classic foundations of the minor pentatonic scale,complemented by major third and dominant seventh tones. He frequently enriches his pentatonic phrases with elements of the Mixolydian mode, especially when outlining dominant chords, which imparts a sophisticated, gospel-like quality to his lines. This gospel influence is particularly evident in his signature “church” string bends that emulate vocal expressions.
Rhythmically, McCray is deeply rooted in the Chicago shuffle style. His interpretation of a slow or mid-tempo shuffle diverges from the customary triplet-based groove, embodying what he refers to as a “Chicago Lope.”
In this lesson, you will explore 13 tabbed examples derived from the video, showcasing the essential components of McCray’s style. You will delve into gospel-inspired string bends, Chicago shuffle phrasing, expressive pick rakes, and techniques to enhance standard pentatonic licks with Mixolydian color tones. The objective is not merely to replicate the licks but to grasp the phrasing, touch, and feel that render his playing so captivating.
Example 1: Gospel-Inspired Bending
“My goal is always to make my guitar sound like a voice.”
Stay updated with the latest guitar news, interviews, lessons, reviews, and exclusive deals delivered straight to your inbox!
This example illustrates the gospel-inspired vocal ”moan” that Larry is renowned for. The key lies in releasing the first bend as you slide into the next, all in one fluid motion.
in this technique, he gradually bends up a whole step and incorporates vibrato at the peak of the bend.This classic vocal technique imparts a singing quality to your bends. Gradually adding vibrato in this manner also enhances intonation, making it an excellent way to develop your fret-hand control.
Larry McCray’s Blues Masterclass: from gospel moans to the Chicago shuffle – YouTube
Watch On
Example 1(Image credit: Steve Allsworth)
Example 2: Gospel-Inspired bending Version 2
Larry emphasizes, “One crucial lesson I learned long ago is the importance of your bends.”
In this segment, he illustrates how to evolve the initial gospel bend lick. Following some classic E blues phrases in the fifth position, he transitions into a blues “rake” technique. The first-finger barre outlines an E major triad, with a minor/major third lick added at the end.
To perform the rake, swiftly glide through the strings with upward strokes in one fluid motion. The concluding rake outlines a D major 7 arpeggio. Practice lifting each finger sequentially as you rake downward through the chord shape.
Larry McCray’s Blues Masterclass: From gospel moans to the Chicago shuffle – YouTube
Watch On
Example 2(Image credit: Steve Allsworth)
Example 3: Ascending with Gospel Bends
Larry elaborates on the foundational slide/bend concept from the previous example, demonstrating that you can approach any note from the scale similarly. here, he focuses on notes from the E minor pentatonic scale (E-G-A-B-D), highlighting the bends that require one-and-a-half steps at the 9th and 16th frets. Practicing the scale horizontally across a single string can help you visualize and here the notes you’ll be bending to.
Larry McCray’s Blues Masterclass: From gospel moans to the Chicago shuffle – YouTube
Watch on
Example 4: Bending with First and Third Fingers
This example showcases a blend of bends using both the third and first fingers, reflecting the influence of Albert King’s signature wide bends of one-and-a-half steps, specifically in the key of A (or while playing over the IV chord in E).
The initial bend should be released before transitioning to a pull-off on the 10th fret, executed in a smooth, continuous motion without muting the string. In the accompanying video, Larry illustrates a challenging first-finger bend of a full step, which produces a captivating sound, but in this instance, it’s only a semitone, leaning into the A blues style.
Larry McCray’s Blues Masterclass: From gospel moans to the Chicago shuffle – YouTube
Watch On
Example 5 Continued (1)(Image credit: Steve Allsworth)
Example 6(Image credit: Steve Allsworth)
Example 6: E Major Soloing in the Style of B.B. King
In this segment, Larry showcases his lyrical approach influenced by B.B. King,focusing on the E major pentatonic scale (ideal for playing over the I chord in E). While considering the underlying scale, Larry visualizes the IV chord (A major triad) in the fifth position. This viewpoint allows him to emphasize the 4th (A), major 6th (C#), and root (E), along with the bend from F# to G#, all derived from the E major pentatonic scale. This technique incorporates the notes from B.B. King’s iconic “blues box” shape.
Larry McCray’s Blues Masterclass: From gospel moans to the Chicago shuffle – YouTube
Watch On
Example 7(Image credit: Steve Allsworth)
Example 8: Incorporating String Rakes in Blues Phrasing
Larry’s use of string rakes can considerably enhance the flavor of your musical lines. This example primarily revolves around E Mixolydian and E minor pentatonic scales, with a focus on the transition from minor to major third to complement the E7 chord. The upward rakes utilize chord shapes,with the first being a B minor in the seventh position and the second an E major in the fifth position,both maintaining the same hand positioning.
The essence of this technique lies in producing a rhythmic affect from the pick rather than executing a clear sweep arpeggio where each note is distinctly heard. Aim to emphasize the lowest note as you rake through the strings, then switch to a downstroke for the subsequent note.
Larry McCray’s Blues Masterclass: From gospel moans to the Chicago shuffle – YouTube
Watch On
Example 9(Image credit: Steve Allsworth)
Example 10: Descending Phrase in E Mixolydian with Raking Technique
In this example, Larry navigates through the E Mixolydian scale.The initial rake utilizes the B minor shape discussed in Example 8 and is part of the “chord over chord” technique that will be explored further in the next example. When playing Bm7 (B D F# A), the first four notes of the lick correspond to the 5th, b7th, 9th, and 11th degrees of E, creating appealing upper extensions of the E7 chord.
Larry McCray’s Blues Masterclass: From gospel moans to the Chicago shuffle – YouTube
Watch On
Example 9(Image credit: Steve Allsworth)
Example 10: Descending Phrase in E Mixolydian with Raking Technique
In this segment, Larry explores the E mixolydian scale. The initial rake employs the B minor shape discussed in Example 8 and is part of the “chord over chord” technique that will be examined further in the next example. When playing Bm7 (B D F# A),the first four notes of the lick correspond to the 5th,b7th,9th,and 11th degrees of E,creating appealing upper extensions of the E7 chord.
Larry McCray’s Blues Masterclass: From gospel moans to the Chicago shuffle – YouTube
Watch On
Unlock Your Guitar Potential: Turbocharge String Bends and Elevate pentatonic Licks with Blues Legend Larry McCray!
Unlock Your Guitar Potential: Turbocharge String Bends and Elevate Pentatonic licks with Blues Legend Larry McCray!
Understanding String Bends
String bending is a fundamental technique in blues guitar that adds expressiveness and emotion to your playing. By bending strings,you can create a vocal-like quality that resonates deeply with listeners.Here’s how to turbocharge your string bends:
1. Master the Basics of String Bending
Proper Finger Placement: Use your third finger to bend the string while your first and second fingers support the note.
Use Your Whole Hand: Engage your wrist and arm to generate more power in your bends.
Practice with a Tuner: Ensure you’re bending to the correct pitch by using a tuner during practice sessions.
2. Incorporate Vibrato
Adding vibrato to your bends can enhance their emotional impact. Here’s how:
Gradual Vibrato: start bending the string and gradually add vibrato at the peak of the bend.
Experiment with Speed: Vary the speed of your vibrato to match the mood of the piece you’re playing.
Elevating Pentatonic Licks
The pentatonic scale is a staple in blues music. Here’s how to elevate your pentatonic licks:
1. Mixolydian Mode Integration
Incorporating the Mixolydian mode into your pentatonic licks can add depth and sophistication. The Mixolydian scale includes the same notes as the major scale but with a flattened seventh, which works beautifully over dominant chords.
2. Use of Passing Notes
Adding chromatic passing notes can make your licks more interesting. For example, when playing an E minor pentatonic lick, try adding a D# as a passing note to create tension before resolving to E.
Benefits of Turbocharging Your Guitar Skills
Enhanced Expressiveness: String bends and advanced licks allow for greater emotional expression in your playing.
Improved Technique: Practicing these techniques will refine your overall guitar skills.
Increased versatility: Mastering these elements will enable you to play across various genres beyond blues.
practical Tips for Implementation
1. Daily Practice Routine
Incorporate string bends and pentatonic licks into your daily practice. Here’s a simple routine:
Time (Minutes)
Activity
10
Warm-up exercises focusing on finger strength
15
String bending drills
15
pentatonic scale practice with Mixolydian integration
20
Improvisation using learned techniques
2. Record Your Progress
Recording your practice sessions can provide valuable feedback. Listen for areas of improvement and track your progress over time.
Case Studies: Larry McCray’s Influence
Blues legend Larry McCray has inspired countless guitarists with his unique approach to string bends and pentatonic licks. Here are a few key takeaways from his style:
Vocal-like Phrasing: McCray’s bends often mimic the nuances of the human voice,making his solos deeply expressive.
Dynamic use of Space: He effectively uses pauses and silence to create tension and anticipation in his playing.
Integration of Gospel Elements: McCray’s background in gospel music informs his approach, adding a rich emotional layer to his solos.
First-Hand Experience: Learning from the Masters
Many guitarists have shared their experiences of learning from Larry McCray’s techniques. Here’s what they say:
“Incorporating Larry’s string bending techniques transformed my playing.I learned to express emotions through my guitar like never before!” – Avid Guitarist
Join the beatbounty Community
Ready to take your guitar skills to the next level? Create an account on the Beatbounty platform and submit an ad to connect with fellow musicians and share your journey!
