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David's Tip of the Day: Repetition (phrasing) - Discussed, Part 3

Posted Thu, 02/14/2013 - 09:44 by David Barrett Admin
David Barrett Admin's picture

A cool lick that goes to the top (on top of the rhythm section... the soloist) is turned into a HEAD by repeating the lick within the first 12 bars (one chorus) using one of the Chorus Forms. The rhythm section is playing a generic groove in support.

All of the study songs at BluesHarmonica.com are like this, and a million other blues harmonica instrumentals... Juke (AAB Chorus Form)... Off the Wall (A B/A C Chorus Form)... Juicy Harmonica (AAA Chorus Form)... Rocker (AAA Chorus Form)... Hunch Rhythm (AAA Chorus Form)... Rocket Ride (A B/A Chorus Form)... Whammer Jammer (AAB Chorus Form)... I can go on all day! :-)

The head commonly comes back at the end of the song, solidifying its importance (though not always... Little Walter didn't commonly do this). Sometimes the head is played twice in the opening (and sometimes ending) if the tune is fast.

What's the difference between a well-crafted 12 bars in the middle of your song?... nothing... the fact that you used it in the opening and ending makes it important. It's also made from your BEST lick... the one you can't stop humming throughout the day... it should be catchy.