How to Play Blind Blake’s Thumb Roll – Ragtime Fingerstyle Lesson

Описание: Learn Texas & Delta Fingerstyle (Course + Tabs): https:// jimbruceguitar.com/texasdeltalessons

Start here (Playlist):    • Delta & Ragtime Fingerstyle Path  

0:00 Jim plays a section of Blind Blake's West Coast Blues
0:38 Jim discusses West Coast Blues
1:02 Plays and sings Early Morning Blues by Blake
2:02 Introducing Blake's songs in key of G - typical turnaround chords
2:50 Blake's way of doubling the bass timing - double thumb rolls
3:10 The thumb roll in C - West Coast Blues with on-screen tab
3:40 Blake's triplets - Southern Rag performance with chords
4:21 Southern Rag tuition with on-screen tabs
4:41 Guitar Chimes in C
5:48 Blake's rhythmic variations
6:20 Wilson Dam performance with chords
7:06 Wilson Dam tuiton with on-screen tabs
7:27 Blake doubles up on the timing - Tootie Blues performance
8:28 Round Up

This lesson focuses on Blind Blake’s signature thumb‑roll technique that powers his ragtime bounce. We break down the right‑hand mechanics, slow it down, and show a loopable bar so you can internalize the groove. We also touch on chord movement in C and G, timing variations, and how to keep the bass driving while the melody syncopates. A perfect foundation for classic Blake tunes and Delta/Ragtime repertoire.

Brief background on Blind Blake

Blind Blake's guitar techniques were innovative for his time, and have influenced countless musicians since then. His use of alternating thumb and finger picking combined with rhythmic complexity created a new sound in blues music that became known as "ragtime blues." In addition to this technique, he also used open tunings to create unique sounds that added texture and depth to his music.

Fingerpicking Techniques - Alternating Thumb and Finger Picking

Blind Blake was known for his intricate fingerpicking style that incorporated a technique called alternating thumb and finger picking. This method involves playing bass notes with the thumb while plucking melodies with the fingers.

The result is a hypnotic rhythm that can be heard on many of Blake's recordings. By mastering this technique, guitarists can add a new dimension to their playing, allowing them to create complex arrangements with ease.
Syncopation and Rhythmic Complexity

Another hallmark of Blind Blake's guitar playing was his use of syncopation and rhythmic complexity. He was constantly changing up the rhythm, using unexpected accents and pauses to keep the listener engaged.

This approach created a sense of tension and release within his music that made it incredibly dynamic. To achieve this effect, Blake would often play against the beat or emphasize off-beat notes.

Chord Progressions and Song Structures

Blues Chord Progressions: Keepin' it Simple but Powerful

Blind Blake's blues chord progressions are a fundamental aspect of his guitar style. He used simple, yet powerful, chord progressions that provided the foundation for his intricate fingerpicking patterns.

The classic 12-bar blues progression is a prime example of this, consisting of the I-IV-V chords in a specific order. Blind Blake's unique twist on this timeless progression came from his use of inversions and substitutions on certain chords, adding an unexpected and captivating flavor to his music.

Ragtime Song Structures: Syncopation with a Twist

Another key element of Blind Blake's style was his use of ragtime song structures. Unlike traditional blues songs that follow a predictable pattern, ragtime structures involve complex and often unpredictable rhythms that playfully challenge the listener's expectations. Blake incorporated these structures into many of his songs, creating a distinct sound that set him apart from other guitarists at the time.

Vocal Accompaniment - Use of Scat Singing

Another vocal technique Blind Blake employed was scat singing, which involves using nonsensical syllables to create a rhythm or melody. This approach allowed him to add another layer of percussive sound to his music without relying solely on his guitar playing. Blind Blake's scat singing was both playful and complex, adding to the overall sense of fun and energy in his performances.

Harmonizing with Guitar Playing

Blind Blake was skilled at harmonizing his voice with his guitar playing. He often sang in unison with his guitar melodies, creating a sense of unity between voice and instrument that is rare in solo performances. In addition, he frequently used falsetto vocals to add another dimension to his music.


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