Country music is known for its heartfelt storytelling, twangy guitars, and unique blend of folk and blues. While the classic country sound leans on simple chord progressions, advanced players often dive into more complex musical ideas. One exciting concept is the altered scale. Though it’s more common in jazz, the altered scale guitar in country music is gaining traction, adding a fresh and sophisticated twist to solos.
In this post, we’ll break down the altered scale, show how it’s used on the guitar, and explore why it’s becoming more popular in modern country. Whether you’re a guitarist or a country music fan, this article offers fresh insights into this unique musical tool. Let’s get started!
What’s the Altered Scale?
First, let’s define the altered scale. It’s a seven-note scale derived from the melodic minor scale. Specifically, it’s the seventh mode of the melodic minor scale, containing several “alterations” of standard notes. These altered notes create a unique, tension-filled sound. It works best over dominant chords (like G7, A7, or E7), adding an element of surprise or movement to your playing.
On the guitar, the altered scale can feel tricky at first, but once you get the hang of it, it opens up a world of improvisation possibilities.
Why Use the Altered Scale in Country Music?
Country music has evolved over time. Once defined by simple chords and melodies, modern country now blends in elements of jazz, rock, and blues, giving rise to more complex guitar work. The altered scale fits right into this shift.
Country guitarists like Brad Paisley and Brent Mason, known for their technical skills, often sprinkle in jazz elements into their solos. The altered scale adds a spicy, tension-filled sound, standing out in solos and breaking free from the typical major pentatonic scale.
Using the Altered Scale on Guitar
Incorporating the altered scale into your guitar playing is easier than you might think. Here’s how to get started:
1. Play It Over the Right Chords
The altered scale shines over dominant chords (like A7 or E7). These chords already contain some tension, so the scale fits naturally by enhancing that tension.
2. Start Simple
You don’t need to jump in with the entire scale. Instead, start with a few notes that work well over dominant chords. Try them in your solos to add flavor without overwhelming your sound.
3. Blend It with the Pentatonic Scale
If you’re used to the major or minor pentatonic scale, try blending a few altered scale notes into your licks. This keeps the familiar country vibe while adding a touch of complexity.
4. Practice Over Backing Tracks
Practicing the altered scale over backing tracks with dominant chords is the best way to get comfortable. This helps train your ear to the unique sound and lets you experiment with different note combinations.
Country Guitarists Using the Altered Scale
While the altered scale isn’t a standard in traditional country, several modern players have embraced it. Here are a few notable guitarists:
- Brad Paisley – Known for mixing country, blues, and jazz influences in his solos, Paisley occasionally throws in altered scale licks to keep things fresh.
- Brent Mason – A Nashville session player, Mason blends jazz and blues into his country playing, using the altered scale to add complexity to his style.
- Danny Gatton – Often called the “world’s greatest unknown guitarist,” Gatton was a master at combining country, blues, and jazz, effortlessly using the altered scale.
These players prove that country music can move beyond simple chord progressions. By experimenting with the altered scale, they add richness and complexity to the genre.
Conclusion: Why the Altered Scale is a Game-Changer
Using the altered scale guitar in country music is becoming more popular as modern players seek to push boundaries. This scale brings a fresh, sophisticated edge to solos, enhancing the traditional country sound. If you’re a guitarist looking to stand out, incorporating the altered scale into your playing is a great way to elevate your music.
Country music continues to grow, borrowing from jazz and other genres to create something new. By mastering the altered scale, you can add a unique flavor to your playing that sets you apart from the crowd.
FAQs
1. What is the altered scale on guitar?
The altered scale is a seven-note scale that introduces dissonance and tension, typically played over dominant chords.
2. Is the altered scale used often in country music?
While not traditionally common, modern country guitarists are using it to add complexity to their solos.
3. How can I learn the altered scale on guitar?
Start by playing it over dominant chords, and practice blending it with familiar scales like the pentatonic.
4. Is the altered scale hard for beginners?
It may seem tricky at first, but starting slow and using simple licks can help you get comfortable with it.
5. Which country guitarists use the altered scale?
Guitarists like Brad Paisley, Brent Mason, and Danny Gatton are known for using jazz-influenced scales, including the altered scale.
6. Will the altered scale make my playing sound less country?
Not at all! It can actually enhance the traditional country sound, adding a modern twist while keeping the heart of country music alive.
