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Forums :: General Discussion

Gary’s blues rhythm

4 replies [Last post]
Tue, 03/11/2025 - 03:22
Roger H
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Joined: 06/17/2024

i've just started working on Gary's blues. I'm not finding the pulls, slaps and flutters too difficult. But I'm having to work really hard at the Rhythm. Is this other peoples experience?

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Thu, 03/13/2025 - 15:17
#1
UkuleleRob65
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Joined: 06/06/2014
Rhythm

Roger:

Lots of great syncopation in "Gary's Blues," with pickup notes, grace notes, etc., all within a shuffle context. Takes a lot of listening (and tapping your foot and swaying your body).

One thing that might help, if you haven't done it already, is to check out David's "Groove" lessons (with some fabulous musicians), at https://www.bluesharmonica.com/lessons/performance_training_groove

-Rob

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Fri, 03/14/2025 - 05:08
#2
Roger H
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Joined: 06/17/2024
Rhythm

Thanks Rob

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Wed, 04/09/2025 - 06:40
#3
Eric P
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Joined: 12/03/2024
Gary’s blues rhythm

Hey Roger, 

I'm with you! I've found that song substantially more challenging than the songs in the earlier levels. There's just a lot going on, like UkeleleRob says. 

I'm sorry, but I don't have any advice. All I can say is that I'm in the same boat and I've been working at it... chipping away, bar by bar, chorus by chorus. and tonnes of looping. I'm slowly getting there and I'm sure you are too!

Luckily the song is super-fun to play, so it's inherently motivating. The pulls and syncopation are great fun once I finally begin to get a handle on all the little moves involved. 

Anyway, sorry I don't have any tips. It's been about a month since you first posted. How is it going?

Eric

P.S. - Thanks for the lesson suggestion, UkeleleRob!

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Fri, 04/25/2025 - 23:23
#4
Roger H
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Joined: 06/17/2024
Rhythm

thanks for getting in touch.It's coming along. I've actually given myself a break by focussing on the solo and accomp. As I says slowly getting it. I just feel that there may be a practice exercise in counting while playing that I'm missing. As you say it's a great tune.

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