B Blues Scale on Bass
The B Blues Scale (B, D, E, F, F#, A) shown across the full 4-string bass fretboard. Tap any note to hear it, or open it in BassMapper to play along with a MIDI file. Free, no account needed.
About the Blues Scale
The blues scale is the minor pentatonic plus one extra note (the flat-fifth 'blue note') that gives it its signature grit. On bass it's the go-to for blues, rock, and funk lines that need a little dirt and vocal-like bends between the notes.
The fretboard above shows the B Blues Scale in every position at once. Open it in BassMapper and drop in a MIDI file to watch the scale light up on the neck in real time as a song plays.
questions
What notes are in the B Blues Scale?
The B Blues Scale contains B, D, E, F, F#, A.
What does the Blues Scale sound like?
Grittier and bluesier than the pentatonic: the flat-fifth adds tension and swagger.
How do I play the Blues Scale on bass?
Use the blue note as a quick passing tone between the 4th and 5th rather than sitting on it. It's a color, not a home base.