Skip to main content
Blues Harmonica logo

User Account

Username:*
Password:*
Forgot Your Password?

Visitor Menu

  • Sign Up
  • Sample Lesson #1
  • Sample Lesson #2
  • Student Recordings
  • Forums
Forums :: Tip of the Day

Driving Wheel - Blues Standards

No replies
Wed, 01/20/2016 - 09:20
David Barrett Admin
David Barrett Admin's picture
Online
Head InstructorTeacher 10Level 10
Joined: 11/30/2009

It's always a good idea to include a Jr. Parker tune in a set... he was the man, both on vocals and harp. This song was chosen due to its hook-driven nature, which is the main reason why a song is chosen in a set. Hook-driven songs are unique, helping your set to not get old. The hook of this song is also very playable on the harmonica. Below is the hook on your G Harmonica in 2nd Position.

I7 = 2 2 3 4 5+ 5 5 5+ 4

IV7 = 1+ 1+ 2+ 2 3" 3' 3' 3" 2

V7 = 1 1 2' 3" 3 4+ 4+ 3 3"

When a hook is present it's challenging to play anything other than the hook. Being that it's the main theme, anything other that you play must not get in the way of the hook. Experiment with other things to play, like a 4 draw/5 draw shake under the vocals or playing fills. Experiment and see what works best for you. I personally like to play this bass line, playing softly and cupping the mic well to present a very bassy sounds to match the bass.

Top

Sign me up!

Full access to all lessons starts at $20/month! (with annual subscription)

Subscribe

Free Sample Lessons

After watching the BluesHarmonica.com overview video, try one of the lessons below to experience a lesson at BluesHarmonica.com.

  • Tongue Blocking Study 2 – This study is for the newer player or the player new to tongue blocking
  • Bending Study 5 – This is for the advanced player looking to improve their bending skills

Contributors

  • Aki Kumar
  • Joe Tartaglia
  • Gary Smith
  • Mark Hummel
  • Joe Filisko

Site Links

  • About David Barrett
  • Accredited Instructors
  • Links
  • Terms and Conditions
  • Contact Us
Hohner
© 2009 - 2025 David Barrett and the Harmonica Masterclass Co. for Bluesharmonica.com