Scale Reference
E Blues Scale
The E blues scale adds a chromatic "blue note" | the b5 | to the minor pentatonic, giving it that signature gritty, expressive sound. Notes: E, G, A, Bb, B, D. Essential for blues, rock, and soul.
About this scale
The blues scale is the minor pentatonic with one added note: the diminished 5th, or "blue note." This passing tone sits between the 4th and 5th scale degrees and creates the characteristic tension that defines the blues sound.
In E, the Bb (blue note) creates a half-step pull toward the B natural, which is what gives blues phrasing its emotional, bending quality. Most blues licks revolve around this tension and resolution.
Intervals
Root | Minor 3rd | Perfect 4th | Diminished 5th | Perfect 5th | Minor 7th
See it live on the fretboard
Pick up where this chart leaves off | build patterns, add triads, change the key, and experiment freely.
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