Country music is known for its twangy guitars, catchy rhythms, and heartfelt lyrics. But if you’re a guitarist looking to add something fresh and exciting to your playing, you might want to explore using the altered scale in your solos. Though it’s more common in jazz and blues, the altered scale can bring a whole new flavor to country music. This blog will break down what the altered scale is, how it works, and how you can use it to spice up your guitar playing in country music.
What Is the Altered Scale?
Before we dive into using the altered scale in country music, let’s define what the scale actually is. The altered scale is a type of heptatonic scale (a seven-note scale) often used over dominant chords, typically with sharp or flat alterations. It includes altered versions of the second, third, fifth, and seventh notes. Here’s a quick breakdown of the intervals:
- Root
- Flat 9th (♭9)
- Sharp 9th (♯9)
- Major 3rd
- Flat 5th (♭5)
- Sharp 5th (♯5)
- Flat 7th (♭7)
This creates a tense, edgy sound that contrasts with the major and pentatonic scales traditionally used in country music. When played over the right chords, the altered scale gives your solos an unpredictable twist, making listeners sit up and take notice.
Why Use the Altered Scale in Country Music?
Country music solos tend to revolve around familiar scales like the major scale, pentatonic scale, and the blues scale. These scales work well, but if you use them all the time, your solos can start to sound predictable. The altered scale offers an exciting alternative that can give your playing a jazzier, more sophisticated feel.
If you’ve ever wanted to add a bit of spice to your leads, especially over dominant 7th chords, this scale is a great option. By incorporating the altered scale, you can break away from the “same old” country guitar sounds and catch the audience’s attention with unexpected note choices.
How to Use the Altered Scale in Your Country Solos
Adding the altered scale to your guitar playing doesn’t require you to completely change your style. Instead, you can use it selectively to highlight certain moments in your solos. Here’s a step-by-step guide to get you started:
1. Find the Right Chord to Play Over
The altered scale is best used over dominant chords. For example, in a classic country progression like G7-C, you can use the altered scale over the G7 chord to create tension before resolving it into the C major chord. Focus on dominant 7th chords when experimenting with this scale.
2. Choose the Appropriate Key
Start by figuring out the key of the song and then apply the altered scale in context. If the song is in the key of C, you can use the G altered scale (since G is the dominant chord in that key). Remember that you’re aiming for tension and resolution, so timing is key.
3. Focus on Phrasing
When using the altered scale, it’s essential to pay attention to your phrasing. Don’t just run through the scale aimlessly. Play it with purpose, landing on notes that resolve smoothly into more familiar country sounds. This contrast between tension (from the altered scale) and release (back to the major or pentatonic scale) creates a dynamic solo.
4. Mix with Traditional Country Licks
To avoid sounding too “out there,” combine the altered scale with traditional country licks. Start your solo with familiar phrases and then sneak in notes from the altered scale to add color. This creates a blend of classic country and modern twists.
Example Lick Using the Altered Scale
To get a better idea of how this works, here’s a simple lick that mixes the G altered scale with some classic country techniques:
- Start with a G dominant 7th chord.
- Play a typical G7 country lick, but when you get to the turnaround, use notes from the G altered scale to create tension.
- Resolve back into a C major chord with a simple bend or slide for that sweet, familiar country sound.
The altered scale can work wonders in places where you’d traditionally play a more straightforward dominant scale, especially in sections where you want to add some surprise.
FAQs
1. Can beginners use the altered scale in country music?
Absolutely! While it’s often associated with more advanced players, beginners can start experimenting with the altered scale by incorporating just a few notes into their solos. Start slow and build from there.
2. What’s the easiest way to practice the altered scale?
Start by practicing the scale in one key, like G altered, over a backing track with a G7 chord. Focus on playing just a few notes at first and see how they fit into your existing country licks.
3. Will using the altered scale make my country playing sound too jazzy?
It depends on how you use it. If you blend it subtly with your country playing, it’ll add a modern twist without sounding out of place. You can always switch back to familiar scales when you want a more traditional sound.
4. What are some songs where I can use the altered scale?
The altered scale works great in songs with dominant 7th chords, like many classic country tunes with simple I-IV-V progressions. It’s particularly effective in the turnaround sections.
5. How can I make my solos more interesting using the altered scale?
Use the altered scale to build tension and then resolve to a more familiar country scale like major or pentatonic. This contrast can make your solos much more engaging.
6. Are there famous country guitarists who use the altered scale?
While it’s not a typical “country” scale, modern players like Brent Mason and Brad Paisley incorporate jazz-influenced scales, including the altered scale, to push the boundaries of country guitar playing.
Conclusion
The altered scale guitar in country music is an exciting tool that can take your country guitar playing to the next level. By learning how to use it effectively, you can add unique colors to your solos and set yourself apart as a guitarist. Whether you’re a seasoned player looking to expand your horizons or a beginner eager to explore new sounds, the altered scale can help you create unforgettable country guitar moments. So grab your guitar, start practicing, and see where this fascinating scale can take your music!
