Lecture

Knowing Your Place in the Band - Funk/R&B Guitar

This module will teach you the significance of knowing your place in the band as a guitarist. You'll explore:

  • Your role in supporting the rhythm section.
  • How to create complementary parts that enhance the band's sound.
  • Techniques for effective communication with other musicians.

By understanding your role, you will elevate your performance and contribute positively to any musical group.


Course Lectures
  • In this module, you will discover the power of pentatonic scales and how they form the backbone of many Funk and R&B riffs. You'll learn:

    • Different pentatonic shapes and their applications.
    • How to incorporate these scales into your improvisation.
    • Techniques to create catchy and rhythmic riffs.

    By the end of this module, you'll be able to confidently use pentatonics to enhance your playing style.

  • This module focuses on the importance of 7th chords in Funk and R&B music. You will learn:

    • The construction of 7th chords and their variations.
    • How to incorporate 7th chords into your progressions.
    • Techniques for creating smooth transitions between chords.

    By mastering 7th chords, you'll add depth and richness to your playing, essential for the genres.

  • This module will teach you the significance of knowing your place in the band as a guitarist. You'll explore:

    • Your role in supporting the rhythm section.
    • How to create complementary parts that enhance the band's sound.
    • Techniques for effective communication with other musicians.

    By understanding your role, you will elevate your performance and contribute positively to any musical group.

  • In this module, you will focus on Am pentatonics, a crucial scale for Funk and R&B guitar. Key points include:

    • Understanding the structure of the Am pentatonic scale.
    • Applying the scale to create soulful riffs and solos.
    • Techniques for improvisation using Am pentatonics.

    By the end of this module, you'll be able to seamlessly integrate Am pentatonics into your playing for that authentic sound.

  • This module highlights the technique of string bending using pentatonic scales. You will learn:

    • How to execute string bends accurately for expressive playing.
    • The emotional impact of bends in Funk and R&B music.
    • Combining bends with pentatonic scales for dynamic solos.

    By mastering string bending, you will enhance your expressiveness and stylistic authenticity in your guitar playing.

  • In this final module, you will delve into the lives and styles of influential guitarists in the Funk and R&B genres. Key highlights include:

    • Understanding the contributions of iconic guitarists.
    • Learning signature techniques and styles from these artists.
    • How to incorporate their influences into your playing.

    This exploration will inspire your own style and help you appreciate the rich history of Funk and R&B guitar.