Robben Ford Blues Masterclass: How to master the diminished scale

Originally published in Guitarist magazine 398, in October, 2015.

[KaninTuzi]

This is one of those videos I watched a few years back and didn't understand a word. Watching it again now and understand pretty much all of it. That's cool! Hang in there, you who can't understand a word, for a while later you may

[graromek]

"You're playing music no matter what you're doing" - I like this approach :)

[chrisv]

The first time I ever heard Robben Ford play a guitar was when I walked into a guitar store about 30 years ago to buy a set of strings. I was a young metal head back then and I didn't pay much mind to the jazzy, urban blues fused guitar magic that was playing over the store music system. In the span of time it took me to ask for a set of strings and pay for them, I had stopped what I was doing and was just awe struck by the slick, creamy tones I heard pouring from this dude's guitar. I asked who he was and they said Robben Ford. When I left the guitar store, I went straight to the record store and bought this cat's CD, "Talk To Your Daughter." I still have that CD (and many others from him). I immediately set out to learn every song and every lick on that CD.

About 10 years later, Robben Ford signed it for me at a gig he played in Rochester, New York.

Truly one of the most talented musicians of his generation and one of the most underrated.

[jeffdawson]

Robben is the teacher we all want, yes?

[sduke]

As somewhat of a beginner this is a lot like explaining calculus to a cat. There is so much to learn it is quite daunting. I love watching and listening to Robben explain how he plays and maybe some day it will make a bit more sense.

[bak]

U can infinitely learn from guys like Robben. He's forgotten more then I'll ever learn. That tid bit about not being afraid to play the scale itself, is actually gold.

[bluesyjazzcat]

The diminished scale always reminds me of an old cartoon where one of the characters is tip-toeing across a room to avoid one of his enemies

[donharrold]

I just love the way this guy plays. Even when he’s just strumming it sounds beautiful and hypnotic. What a gift the guy’s got.

[IvorThomas]

I've been working on dim scales for years, and still I get insights from Robben on how to use about them in such musical and simple ways. Love this dude.

[mwngw]

Saw Robben perform around 1975 with Charlie Musselwhite's band and Robben Ford on piano. When the band played "Blu Stu, " Robben's virtuosity really displayed itself...he was maybe 18 years old at the time. When Robben played the alto sax, the crowd was stunned in awe. Then he did the guitar and we were speechless for hours later.

[RichardsGuitarshop]

Spent my youth listening and watching Robbens tuitional videos as much as listening to his albums - still my biggest inspiration. Awesome.

[cmonsterz]

Not just an excellent master lesson; it’s a master lesson by the legendary master himself!

[nonemlinus]

Thanks Robben! I love Miles too. I didn’t realize he used the diminished scale.

[orage]

I could literally listen to him forever, thanks for existing Robben.

[AnalogOpher]

It doesn't even matter what he's teaching. He could be talking about nuts&bolts and that hypnotic voice and mannerism would smooth all your worries away. You just want to hear him talk. Forever.

[bartjelories]

Still watching in 2019, I learn so much from these masters.

[coryj]

Such an amazing touch! His phrasing is perfect. No matter what he’s playing through it always sounds like Robben Ford. 🙌🏽

[trinity-loveeasley]

His guitar is so warm and sparkly! Makes me feel bubbly inside!🥰

[jackhudson]

Robben is a master player. Easily my favourite of all time. I greatly appreciate that he is taking the time to impart his knowledge for all to learn. This video is so valuable!

[scottwaszak]

Now I know how my dog feels when he watches t.v....