Moveable Power Chords, pt. VII – Examples in Music

In last month’s post I a shuffle rhythm to closed power on the 6th string. This technique is easily found in blues music, but can be readily found in rock music and is a must for students to master; whether actual shuffle feel or the straighter version that can be found in rock. 

For teachers wanting students to apply this technique, one must look no further than simply plugging the rhythm into basic 12 Bar Blues. There is no harm in having students work through a 12 Bar Blues using only chords on the sixth string; in fact it is extremely helpful for students to learn to the move vertically on a single string. Additionally, it will help students memorize notes on that particular string. Furthermore, with slow and consistent practice students will develop smooth shifting technique between small and large fret movements.

For practice using a straight shuffle rhythm, there are plenty of rock songs that incorporate the technique/rhythm into either whole or parts of the song. Plus, for more focused practice teachers should not be afraid to take “liberties” with the song and change all the chords to a single string (in this case all chords are on the 6th string). Below are some examples of rock songs by the Chuck Berry who some say “invented” the straight shuffle rhythm.

· Johnny B. Goode

· Deep Feeling

· Rock ‘n’ Roll Music

· No Particular Place to Go

Movable Power Chords, pt. VI – Shuffle Rhythm

 In a post many moons ago I discussed applying a shuffle rhythm to open power chords. A shuffle rhythm is a “feel” specific to the blues in which the written eighth note rhythm is played more like that of a triplet.

For the purpose of this post we will be apply the shuffle rhythm to closed power chords on the 6^th string. Power chords (as we know from a prior post) make use of the Root and 5^th of the key and are neither major nor minor as they have no 3^rd.

When applying a shuffle rhythm to closed power chords the pinky expand up two frets to reach the “shuffle note” or 6^th note in the key. The example below uses a B5 power chord (B – root, F# - 5^th), however the shuffle note played by the pinky will be a G# or the 6^th note in the key of B.

 Next month we’ll get into applying this new skill. 

Movable Power Chords, pt. V - Familiarity

For the last several posts I have discussed "Movable Power Chords". These are two note chords made from the root and 5th which are neither major nor minor (a result of the absence of the 3rd). Specifically, I have covered power chords which are rooted on the 6th string. 

There are several ways that students can get familiar with power chords on the guitar neck.

1. Exercises - specified exercises designed by the teacher to help students learn power chord positions. For example, shifting between "natural" chords only (A, G, F, etc...) or accidentals (F#, G#, A#, etc...).
2. Chord Progressions - applying I IV V progressions (such as a 12 Bar Blues) will not only help develop the ear to certain chord progressions, students will learn to navigate the neck vertically on a single string.
3. Riffs/Songs - The teacher can make a list of riffs and/or songs which utilize specific power chords. For example, a riff that uses power chords only on the 6th string (or later 5th or 4th string).

If you know of any other ways to get students knowing their way around power chords, let me know and I'll add them to the list!