EASY Blues Guitar Turnaround: Play Like a Pro!

A blues turnaround is a concise, two-bar phrase typically placed at the end of a 12-bar blues progression (in bars 11 and 12). Its primary role is to create a sense of movement and anticipation, either leading the listener back to the start of the progression or signaling the end of the piece. The turnaround's hallmark is its emphasis on the transition from the V chord (dominant) to the I chord (tonic), skillfully balancing tension and resolution to keep the progression dynamic and engaging.

Musically, turnarounds often make use of chromatic passing tones, dominant 7th chords, diminished chords, or walking bass lines, all of which add harmonic richness and variety. For instance, a classic turnaround might involve a descending chromatic line starting on the V chord (e.g., G7) and resolving to the I chord (e.g., C7), with intermediate chords such as F7 or Bdim7 providing smooth voice leading and extra color.

The beauty of a blues turnaround lies in its versatility. While the basic structure can remain simple, players often embellish it with syncopated rhythms, altered chords, or melodic runs, tailoring it to their personal style or the mood of the piece. Whether understated or flashy, a well-crafted turnaround is essential to the blues’ rolling, cyclical flow and provides an opportunity for musicians to showcase their creativity and command of harmony.

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[derin]

I like when Marty stares deep into your soul like that! 😂

[Da_Black_Man]

This man has been teaching me for over 12 years

[herondiaz]

Your are a guitar god Marty, thank you for all you do for us.

[cesarcalderon]

Marty is such a great teacher. Been learning from him for a while. Thank you Marty.

[myself]

The best guitar teacher on youtube, period.

[nini]

Always loved that color strat with a dark fingerboard. ❤

[im_a_ge]

Im feeling like the man..i took your blues course and even caught how you switched from using the one finger on the B to a full E chord for this new turnaround...thank you sir

[benjaminkurmann]

You are the G.O.A.T in teaching me stuff😂🙋🏻‍♂️❤️

[trevorgwelch]

Is that a cool ebony fret board looks amazing . Great lessons

[andyg]

I'm on it. This turn-around must be played now. Thanks. I love it!

[megalithicblock]

Awesome thanks Marty I wish you were my dad

[LifeHawkeye]

Marty my friend I’m going to use that thank you!

[lennonptpaul]

Yes!! I’m mastering this tonight. Brilliant.

[Joekonda]

Marty youtube blues king teacher, and what a sound!

[timclark]

Been learning from Marty for years now. Thanks bro your an inspiration

[DougieFresh]

Theres alot of good in this. Beautiful blue strat. Got one in my future.

[JelleW]

Man this is fun... I've been playing with these licks for over an hour now.

[kerry]

Marty, your lessons are among the the best. Concise and to the point, and you explain things very well.
Thanks.

[stormyweather]

Thanks for all your help you rock !!!! 🙏😎

[mnchopndscrew]

i wish i had enthusiasm and motivation like marty… im 29 and feel completely dead inside