G# Blues Scale for Guitar
Key of G# • Blues Scale
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Guitar fretboard showing G# blues scale. Notes: G#, B, C#, D, D#, F#. Position: full.
1
2
3
4
5
6
7
8
9
10
11
12
13
14
15
16
17
18
19
20
21
22
e
F#
G#
B
C#
D
D#
F#
G#
B
C#
D
B
B
C#
D
D#
F#
G#
B
C#
D
D#
F#
G#
G
G#
B
C#
D
D#
F#
G#
B
C#
D
D#
D
D
D#
F#
G#
B
C#
D
D#
F#
G#
B
A
B
C#
D
D#
F#
G#
B
C#
D
D#
F#
E
F#
G#
B
C#
D
D#
F#
G#
B
C#
D
Tab Notation
e|----- 2---- 4---- 7---- 9----10----11----14----16----19----21----22-----|
B|----- 0---- 2---- 3---- 4---- 7---- 9----12----14----15----16----19----21-----|
G|----- 1---- 4---- 6---- 7---- 8----11----13----16----18----19----20-----|
D|----- 0---- 1---- 4---- 6---- 9----11----12----13----16----18----21-----|
A|----- 2---- 4---- 5---- 6---- 9----11----14----16----17----18----21-----|
E|----- 2---- 4---- 7---- 9----10----11----14----16----19----21----22-----|
Notes: G# - B - C# - D - D# - F#
Formula
1♭34♭55♭7
Intervals
R - m3 - P4 - TT - P5 - m7
About the Blues Scale
The blues scale adds a ♭5 (the 'blue note') to the minor pentatonic, creating the characteristic 'blues' sound. This passing tone adds tension and release, grit and emotion that defines blues and rock guitar.
Usage
The definitive scale for blues, rock, and jazz blues. Essential for authentic blues solos and classic rock guitar. The ♭5 creates the signature bend and slide sounds. Used by every blues guitarist from B.B. King to Stevie Ray Vaughan.
History
Emerged from African American blues music in the early 20th century, incorporating African musical sensibilities into Western scales. The added blue note became the sound of emotion and expression in guitar playing, revolutionizing popular music.