Big Road Blues: Exploring the Captivating World of 12 Bars On 80

The blues, a genre with deep roots in African American culture, has a captivating way of connecting directly to the soul. It tells stories of struggle, hardship, and resilience, often accompanied by the iconic sound of a 12-bar progression. Among the many variations of this beloved music, the Big Road Blues stands out as a mesmerizing journey through the heart and soul of the blues tradition.

The Origins of 12 Bars On 80

The term "Big Road Blues" refers to a specific type of blues song that follows a 12-bar progression with an 80-beat-per-minute tempo. This style originated in the early 20th century, emerging from the works of influential blues musicians like Robert Johnson, Muddy Waters, and B.B King. These artists often used this pattern as a foundation for their soulful tales, creating a timeless formula that continues to captivate audiences to this day.

The Structure of Big Road Blues

At its core, Big Road Blues is defined by its structure – the iconic 12-bar progression. This structure consists of three lines, each containing four bars. The first line establishes the key and sets the tone, while the second line introduces variation and builds anticipation. Finally, the third line resolves the progression and brings a sense of closure to the listener.

Big Road Blues-12 Bars on I-80

by Ted Reed(Kindle Edition)

4.7 out of 5

Language	:	English
File size	:	3441 KB
Text-to-Speech	:	Enabled
Screen Reader	:	Supported
Enhanced typesetting	:	Enabled
Word Wise	:	Enabled
Print length	:	322 pages
Lending	:	Enabled

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Exploring the Keywords:

• Big Road Blues: A term describing a particular type of blues song with a distinct 12-bar progression and 80-beat-per-minute tempo.
• 12 Bars On 80: Represents the structure and tempo of a Big Road Blues song.
• Soulful: Reflects the emotional and heartfelt nature of the blues genre.
• Struggle: Alludes to the tales of hardship and difficult experiences often depicted in blues lyrics.
• Resilience: Highlights the theme of overcoming adversity that is prevalent in many blues songs.
• Variation: Refers to the alternating patterns and improvised solos often found within the 12-bar progression.
• Influential: Acknowledges the significant impact that legendary blues musicians have had on the development of this genre.

Why Big Road Blues Resonates with Audiences

Big Road Blues has stood the test of time because it speaks to the universal human experience. It captures the raw emotions that accompany struggle and the desire for a better life. The genre's ability to connect with people from all walks of life, across endless cultural boundaries, is a testament to its profound impact.

Exploring Big Road Blues Today

In recent years, Big Road Blues has experienced a resurgence in popularity as modern artists pay homage to the genre's traditions while adding their own unique flair. From contemporary blues artists like Joe Bonamassa and Gary Clark Jr. to the infusion of blues elements into mainstream music, such as The Black Keys and Jack White, this genre continues to evolve and captivate new listeners.

The beauty of Big Road Blues lies not only in its structure but also in the stories it tells and the emotions it evokes. The 12-bar progression and 80-beat-per-minute tempo serve as the backbone for soulful expression, delivering a powerful experience that resonates with audiences of all backgrounds. So, immerse yourself in this captivating world, and let the Big Road Blues take you on a journey through the depths of musical passion and emotion.

Big Road Blues-12 Bars on I-80

by Ted Reed(Kindle Edition)

4.7 out of 5

Language	:	English
File size	:	3441 KB
Text-to-Speech	:	Enabled
Screen Reader	:	Supported
Enhanced typesetting	:	Enabled
Word Wise	:	Enabled
Print length	:	322 pages
Lending	:	Enabled

FREE

Mark Hummel came of age in the early seventies, at the height of rock and roll, like many of his peers he went and bought a harmonica and hasn’t stopped playing since. A specialist in the West Coast Blues he’s a seasoned showman who knows more than a thing or two about how to please an audience. The New Yorker

Once Mark Hummel established himself in the music scene San Francisco Bay Area in the 1970s, Hummel performed with Boogie Jake, Sonny Lane, Cool Papa Sadler, Mississippi Johnny Waters, and dozens of other renown blues performers and icons. Mark formed the Blues Survivors in 1980, and the band, in one form or another, has been on the road with Mark ever since. Over the years Hummel has toured or recorded with Sue Foley, Charles Brown, Brownie McGhee, Willie “Big Eyes” Smith, James Cotton, Dave Myers, Charlie Musselwhite, and Frank “Paris Slim” Goldwasser. Hummel has also toured with Lowell Fulson, Jimmy Rogers, and Eddie Taylor; live recordings from those tours are available on his CD compilation Chicago Blues Party. In addition to playing in blues clubs across the U.S. and throughout Europe, Hummel and the Blues Survivors have performed at the San Francisco Blues Festival, the Sonora Blues Festival, the Chicago Blues Festival, the King Biscuit Blues Festival, and the Monterey Jazz Festival. He has also contributed CD reviews to Blues Wax, an online weekly blues music magazine, and written extensively for his blog on the Mark Hummel website.