Keep It Groovy: Blues Endings, Part 2

As most of you know, a 12-bar blues can go on forever, and ever, and ever, until someone makes the executive decision to end the song. At that moment, you may have a mini panic attack and wonder, “how do I end this song?”

Well, here are a few more options that you can use when listening to, learning, or jamming a blues. We’ll explore a handful of extremely common blues endings to help you tie up the loose ends and land on the one with the rest of the band. (If you missed part 1, check that out first).

This one focuses on descending motion to the five chord before returning down to the one to complete the song.

Enjoy and keep it groovy!

Ryan Madora is a professional bass player, author, and educator living in Nashville, TN. In addition to touring and session work, she teaches private lessons and masterclasses to students of all levels. Visit her website to learn more!

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