D.J. Play My Blues: Guitar Tab

This tab captures one of Guy's signature pieces, giving students direct access to his phrasing and bending technique without the guesswork that comes from transcribing by ear. The nine pages provide enough detail to explore how a master blues player builds tension, navigates the form, and uses space as effectively as notes.

Raw and conversational, with the guitar talking rather than just playing notes. The piece alternates between moments of restless energy and contemplative space, demanding that you listen as much as you execute.

Intermediate to advanced guitarists ready to tackle authentic blues phrasing and bending technique. This works well for students studying the language of electric blues or preparing for jazz ensemble contexts where blues fluency matters.

• Pay close attention to bend notation and release timing; Guy's bends often sit slightly ahead of or behind the beat for expressive effect rather than strict time.
• Work the dynamics across sections so quieter passages feel intentional rather than under-played. This piece relies on contrast to land its storytelling.
• Practice the rhythm figure pocket separately until it sits naturally; the tab will show you where the notes live, but your ear should drive the groove.

Pair this with listening to the original recording and then with other blues standards your students know, creating a mini unit on how different players interpret the same form. It also works as an enrichment piece for guitarists while the ensemble works on other repertoire.

• Expressive bending and vibrato control on electric guitar
• Blues form navigation and phrasing across 12-bar sections
• Reading and interpreting rhythmic nuance from guitar tab
• Dynamic shaping and space management within a groove