What is “12-Bar Blues”?
The 12-Bar Blues is a musical form that evolved from the work songs of 19th century African-American plantation workers. By the 20th century, a standard 12-bar form developed that became the foundation for most Rock N’ Roll and R&B music of the 20th Century, and is still ubiquitous today in American popular music. This form repeats every 12 measures (a.k.a. bars) and features a very simple and standardized chord progression. Over the years, musicians have elaborated the chord progression, but generally maintain the 12-bar length. In its most basic form, the 12-bar blues contains just 3 different chords, and this simplicity makes it perfect for instrumental improvisation and impromptu “jam sessions”. In addition to countless songs by classic blues artists such as Robert Johnson, Muddy Waters, B.B. King, & John Lee Hooker, a great many Pop and R&B songs over the years have been based on the 12-bar blues form.
