Introduction
If you’re a country guitar player or just a fan of the twangy, heartfelt sounds of the genre, you’ve probably noticed that country music isn’t as simple as it seems. Behind those catchy melodies and soulful lyrics, there’s some serious musical theory in action! One of the more interesting elements used in modern country guitar playing is the altered scale. While it may sound intimidating, the altered scale can add a unique flavor to your playing, giving your solos a bluesy, jazz-inspired edge that stands out in today’s country music scene.
In this blog post, we’ll break down what the altered scale is, how it’s used on the guitar in country music, and why it’s a valuable tool for any guitarist looking to spice up their solos.
What is the Altered Scale?
Before diving into how the altered scale fits into country music, let’s clarify what it actually is. The altered scale is a variation of the dominant scale, often used in jazz but increasingly appearing in other genres like country. It’s built by altering certain notes of the dominant scale—usually the 5th, 9th, or 11th notes—hence the name “altered.”
The notes of the altered scale give it a distinctive, tension-filled sound, perfect for creating moments of suspense in a solo or melody. While country music typically relies on more straightforward scales like the major or pentatonic, the altered scale adds a layer of complexity, drawing influence from jazz and blues. This allows guitarists to push boundaries and create unexpected twists in their solos.
How the Altered Scale Fits Into Country Music
You might be wondering, “Country music and jazz scales? Really?” It’s true—country music has evolved over the years to include a variety of influences. With artists like Brad Paisley and Keith Urban pushing the limits of traditional country sounds, the altered scale has found its way into the genre.
In country music, the altered scale can be used during solos to create a bluesy, jazzy flavor that catches the listener’s ear. It’s particularly effective in moments of transition or when a guitarist wants to build tension before resolving back to the song’s main melody. Instead of sticking to predictable note choices, the altered scale adds color and complexity, making a solo stand out without straying too far from the song’s emotional core.
How to Use the Altered Scale on Guitar in Country Music
Now that you know what the altered scale is, let’s talk about how to use it in your country guitar playing. Below are a few practical tips for incorporating the altered scale into your solos:
1. Learn the Shape
The first step is getting comfortable with the altered scale shape on the guitar. Start by learning it in one or two positions on the neck. You don’t need to master the whole fretboard at once—just get familiar with how the scale feels under your fingers.
2. Add It in Small Doses
You don’t need to play the entire altered scale in every solo. In fact, sometimes less is more. Try using just a few altered notes within a solo to add tension. For instance, slip in a flattened 5th or a sharpened 9th when moving between chords. This will give your playing an unexpected twist without overwhelming the listener.
3. Pair It with Traditional Country Licks
The beauty of country music is in its simplicity, but that doesn’t mean you can’t throw in a curveball. Mix a few altered scale notes with your go-to country licks. This can add a modern edge to classic-sounding solos, giving your playing a signature sound.
4. Practice with a Backing Track
The best way to master the altered scale is to practice it over a backing track. Start slow, and listen to how the altered notes sound against the chord progression. Over time, you’ll develop a feel for when and where to use the scale effectively in your solos.
Why Use the Altered Scale in Country Music?
So, why bother with the altered scale in country music? Here are a few reasons why it’s worth incorporating into your playing:
- Adds Depth and Complexity: The altered scale allows you to explore new sounds that go beyond traditional country music.
- Enhances Solos: By adding tension and unexpected note choices, you can make your solos more memorable.
- Blends Genres: Country music has always borrowed from other genres, like rock, blues, and jazz. The altered scale is a perfect example of this cross-genre blending.
- Keeps Your Playing Fresh: If you feel like your solos are sounding repetitive, the altered scale is a great way to inject some creativity into your playing.
Conclusion
The altered scale may seem like a jazz concept, but it’s proving to be a powerful tool for country guitarists who want to add a bit of spice to their playing. From creating tension in solos to adding an unexpected edge to traditional licks, the altered scale is versatile and, when used tastefully, can elevate your country music guitar playing to new heights. If you’re looking to stand out from the crowd and explore new musical territory, give the altered scale a try—you might just discover your new favorite way to solo.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
1. What is an altered scale in guitar? The altered scale is a variation of the dominant scale that changes (or “alters”) certain notes, such as the 5th, 9th, or 11th. It’s commonly used in jazz but can also add complexity to country music.
2. How do I play the altered scale on guitar? Start by learning the shape of the altered scale in one or two positions on the neck. You can practice by incorporating small portions of the scale into your solos to create tension and interest.
3. Is the altered scale common in country music? While it’s more commonly associated with jazz, the altered scale has been embraced by modern country guitarists looking to add a bluesy or jazz-inspired sound to their solos.
4. Can beginners use the altered scale in their solos? Yes! Beginners can experiment with the altered scale by adding a few altered notes into their solos. It’s a great way to start exploring new sounds without getting too complicated.
5. Which country artists use the altered scale in their playing? Artists like Brad Paisley and Keith Urban have been known to incorporate more complex scales, including the altered scale, into their solos to push the boundaries of traditional country guitar playing.
6. Can the altered scale be used in other genres? Absolutely. While it’s popular in jazz and now country music, the altered scale can be used in blues, rock, and even pop music to create tension and add interest to solos.
