Keep It Groovy: Learn The E Minor Pentatonic And Apply It To A Blues

Hey there, bass players!

In this “Keep It Groovy” lesson, we learn how to play the E minor pentatonic scale across two octaves, both ascending and descending. Then, we add a bit of rhythm to the scale to create a simple yet effective bass groove that can be played as a two-bar phrase.

To give it a bit more motion, we apply this groove to a 12-bar blues progression and move it across the I-IV-V chords (E, A, and B, respectively). This is a great lesson for understanding groove development and applying scale knowledge to something a bit more musical.

Enjoy working through these patterns 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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