Blues Shuffle

The swinging rhythm that defines blues music. Based on triplet feel, creating that characteristic blues bounce.

intermediateblues Rhythm4/4 (triplet feel)

Rhythm Notation

D--U D--U D--U D--U (triplet feel)

Strumming pattern notation

Time Signature:

4/4 (triplet feel)

Recommended Tempo:

70-120 BPM

Rhythm Character

The swinging rhythm that defines blues music. Based on triplet feel, creating that characteristic blues bounce.

Techniques

  • Triplet Feel
  • Palm Muting
  • Shuffle Variations

Common Genres

  • Blues
  • Blues Rock
  • Shuffle Rock
  • Texas Blues
  • Chicago Blues

Rhythm Variations

Texas Shuffle

intermediate
PM-D--U PM-D--U

Aggressive shuffle with muted bass

💡 Application: Stevie Ray Vaughan style blues

Chicago Shuffle

intermediate
D--U D--U with stops

Straight-ahead urban blues shuffle

💡 Application: Electric blues and blues rock

Slow Blues Shuffle

advanced
D-----U D-----U

Laid-back shuffle for slow blues

💡 Application: Emotional slow blues

Famous Songs

"Pride and Joy"

by Stevie Ray Vaughan

Used in: Main riff

"Sweet Home Chicago"

by Blues Standard

Used in: Entire song

"Before You Accuse Me"

by Eric Clapton

Used in: Rhythm guitar

"The Thrill Is Gone"

by B.B. King

Used in: Rhythm section

Practice Exercises

Triplet Timing Drill

60 BPMTriplet subdivision accuracy

Internalize the triplet feel

Steps:

  1. 1.Count triplets out loud
  2. 2.Clap on 1 and 'let' of triplet
  3. 3.Transfer to guitar strumming
  4. 4.Practice with metronome on triplets
  5. 5.Record and check timing

Focus:

Triplet subdivision accuracy

12-Bar Blues Shuffle

90 BPMBlues rhythm application

Apply shuffle to blues progression

Steps:

  1. 1.Learn 12-bar blues in A
  2. 2.Apply shuffle pattern throughout
  3. 3.Add turnarounds at bar 12
  4. 4.Practice with backing track
  5. 5.Vary dynamics for expression

Focus:

Blues rhythm application

Shuffle Riff Integration

100 BPMLead and rhythm integration

Combine shuffle with blues riffs

Steps:

  1. 1.Learn basic blues riff
  2. 2.Alternate riff with shuffle
  3. 3.Practice smooth transitions
  4. 4.Add bass walks
  5. 5.Create complete arrangements

Focus:

Lead and rhythm integration

Technical Tips

Playing Tips

  • Count '1-trip-let, 2-trip-let' internally
  • Play on 1 and 'let' of each triplet
  • Keep consistent triplet feel throughout
  • Listen to blues records for reference
  • Rest palm edge on bridge
  • Mute bass strings lightly
  • Allow some note to ring through
  • Adjust pressure for different tones
  • Try straight vs. swing eighths
  • Experiment with different accents
  • Add bass runs between chords
  • Mix shuffles with straight beats

Common Problems

  • Can't feel the triplet subdivision
  • Shuffle sounds stiff or mechanical
  • Losing shuffle feel during chord changes

Metronome Practice Guide

Time Signature
4/4 (triplet feel)
Suggested Tempo
70-120 BPM
Rhythm Pattern
D--U D--U D--U D--U (triplet feel)
D = Down, U = Up, - = Rest

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