(004) Life, Love and Blues Harmonica Licks

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An ongoing series. Part video blog, part harmonica lesson, part self-therapy.

I'm playing a C harmonica in second position. The backing track is in the key of G.

The basic tab for the lick I’m highlighting is:

1 4 1 4' 1 4' 4+ 1 4+ 3'

However, I’m most likely doing variations and adding textures and techniques not amenable to a basic tab. I have other videos on technique and obviously, I can do private lessons if you want to get into the real nitty gritty on this stuff.

I’m using an adapted version of David Barrett’s tab system, which is annoying for some people but is easy to read and very efficient once learned. I like it and I ain’t changing. You can always transcribe into your favoured system if you like.

Tab key: https://www.leedsharmonica.uk/resources/tab-key/tab-key.pdf

Tongue switching: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=GcMrpRJq9Vo

Chicago blues harmonica techniques with tongue blocking: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=Wg7sd-TudqY
Chicago blues harmonica techniques without tongue blocking: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=OFOXYcFFTto

Backing track: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=th_KXPVWwwY
Many more excellent tracks are available from MCCD Sessions: https://www.youtube.com/@icebeatmaker

Thumbnail from the cover of George Harmonica Smith’s album Now You Can Talk About Me
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=FwtfZqOVOA4

Private harmonica lessons and more harmonica nerdery: https://www.leedsharmonica.uk/