How to Play Guitar Like Robert Johnson

Robert Johnson, the legendary blues guitarist, left a musical legacy that continues to inspire musicians today. Known for his distinctive style and haunting lyrics, he crafted a sound that still resonates with guitarists eager to capture that same magic. In this post, we’ll explore the techniques and nuances that made Johnson’s playing so unique, and how you can incorporate them into your own guitar journey.

Understanding Robert Johnson’s Influence

Before diving into the techniques themselves, let’s take a moment to appreciate Robert Johnson’s impact on music. Often dubbed the “King of the Delta Blues,” Johnson’s recordings in the late 1930s have shaped the blues genre and influenced countless artists across various musical styles. His work laid the groundwork for rock and roll, and his influence can be heard in the music of Eric Clapton, Keith Richards, and many others.

Johnson’s music was characterized by its raw emotion, intricate fingerpicking, and the use of open tunings. He managed to convey an entire band’s sound with just one guitar, which is part of what makes his playing so captivating. To play like Robert Johnson, you need to embrace these elements and develop a feel for the blues that goes beyond technical proficiency.

Open Tunings and Their Magic

One of the first things to understand about Johnson’s playing is his use of open tunings. Open tunings allow you to create rich, resonant chords with minimal finger movement, which is perfect for the blues. Robert Johnson frequently used open G and open D tunings, each lending a distinct character to his songs.

• Open G Tuning: This tuning is achieved by tuning your guitar to D-G-D-G-B-D. It creates a G major chord when strummed open, providing a deep and resonant sound.
• Open D Tuning: By tuning your guitar to D-A-D-F#-A-D, you create a D major chord. This tuning is great for slide guitar and lends itself well to soulful, melodic playing.

Experimenting with these tunings can open up new possibilities in your playing. Take some time to explore the sounds and textures they offer. You might find that certain chords and riffs come more naturally in these tunings, helping you capture that authentic blues feel.

The Art of Fingerpicking

Fingerpicking is central to Robert Johnson’s style. His ability to create intricate melodies and bass lines simultaneously is a hallmark of his playing. To get started with fingerpicking, focus on developing independence between your thumb and fingers.

Johnson often used a technique called “alternating bass,” where the thumb plays a steady rhythm on the bass strings while the fingers pick out melodies on the higher strings. Here’s a simple exercise to practice this technique:

• Start with your thumb playing the 6th string, then the 4th string, in a steady rhythm.
• Use your index and middle fingers to pick the 2nd and 3rd strings, creating a simple melody.
• Practice slowly, ensuring each note is clear and distinct.

As you become more comfortable, try incorporating more complex melodies and rhythms. The goal is to create a seamless blend of melody and rhythm, much like Johnson did in his recordings.

Slide Guitar Techniques

Another essential aspect of Johnson’s playing is his use of slide guitar. The slide allows for smooth, expressive transitions between notes, giving your playing a vocal-like quality. To effectively use a slide, you’ll need to focus on intonation and control.

• Choose the Right Slide: Slides come in various materials, such as glass, metal, and ceramic. Each offers a different tone, so experiment to find the one that suits your style.
• Proper Finger Placement: Place the slide lightly on the strings directly above the fret, not between frets like you would when playing without a slide.
• Practice Intonation: Use your ear to ensure you’re hitting the right notes. Slides can easily go out of tune, so take your time to develop accuracy.

Once you’re comfortable with the basic technique, try incorporating slide into some of your favorite blues riffs. The goal is to create a smooth, singing quality in your playing that echoes the soulfulness of Johnson’s music.

Mastering the Blues Scale

The blues scale is fundamental to capturing the essence of Robert Johnson’s style. This scale provides the foundation for many of his iconic solos and riffs. Here’s how you can start using it in your playing:

The basic blues scale is a six-note scale derived from the minor pentatonic scale with an added “blue note.” In the key of A, the blues scale is: A, C, D, D#, E, G, A.

• Practice the Scale: Start by playing the scale up and down until it feels comfortable under your fingers.
• Create Melodic Phrases: Use the scale to create simple licks and phrases. Focus on expression and feel, not just speed.
• Incorporate Bends and Slides: Add bends and slides to your phrases to emulate the vocal quality of Johnson’s playing.

Remember, the blues is about emotion and storytelling. Use the blues scale as a tool to express yourself, not just as a technical exercise.

Rhythm and Timing

Johnson’s ability to blend rhythm and melody seamlessly is one of his greatest strengths. To emulate this, focus on developing a strong sense of timing and groove. Here are some tips to help you get started:

• Use a Metronome: Practice playing along with a metronome to develop a consistent sense of timing. Start slow and gradually increase the tempo as you become more comfortable.
• Play Along with Recordings: One of the best ways to internalize Johnson’s rhythm is to play along with his recordings. Pay attention to his timing and try to match it as closely as possible.
• Experiment with Syncopation: Syncopation, or playing off the beat, is a common feature in blues music. Experiment with different rhythmic patterns to add interest to your playing.

Developing a strong sense of rhythm will enhance every aspect of your playing, helping you capture the essence of Johnson’s music.

The Emotional Aspect of Playing

At its core, the blues is about emotion. Robert Johnson’s music conveys a deep sense of longing, pain, and sometimes even joy. To truly play like Johnson, you need to tap into these emotions and let them guide your playing.

• Connect with the Music: Before you start playing, take a moment to connect with the emotion behind the song. What story are you trying to tell?
• Focus on Dynamics: Use dynamics, or varying the volume and intensity of your playing, to convey emotion. Soft, gentle passages can express vulnerability, while louder, more aggressive sections can convey intensity.
• Play from the Heart: Don’t get too caught up in playing perfectly. Allow yourself to make mistakes and play with feeling. The blues is about authenticity, not perfection.

Remember, playing the guitar is as much about expression as it is about technique. Allow your emotions to guide your playing, and you’ll be one step closer to capturing the spirit of Robert Johnson.

Collaborating with Other Musicians

Robert Johnson often played with other musicians, creating a dynamic interplay between guitarists. Collaborating with others can add new dimensions to your playing and help you grow as a musician.

• Jam Sessions: Join local jam sessions or find other musicians to play with. This can expose you to new ideas and techniques, while also helping you develop your improvisational skills.
• Record Yourself: Record your playing and listen back to identify areas for improvement. This can also help you hear how your playing fits with other instruments.
• Learn from Others: Pay attention to how other musicians approach the blues. Each player brings their own unique perspective, and you can learn a lot by observing and collaborating with others.

Playing with other musicians can be a rewarding experience that pushes you to new heights. Embrace the opportunity to learn and grow, just as Johnson did in his collaborations.

Finding Your Own Voice

While it’s important to learn from Robert Johnson, it’s equally important to find your own voice as a musician. The blues is a personal form of expression, and your playing should reflect your unique perspective and experiences.

• Experiment with Different Styles: Don’t be afraid to explore different styles and genres. Incorporating elements from other musical traditions can help you develop a distinctive sound.
• Write Your Own Music: Use the techniques and concepts you’ve learned to create your own compositions. This can help you develop your voice and express yourself more authentically.
• Embrace Your Influences: Draw inspiration from a variety of sources, including non-musical ones. Literature, art, and personal experiences can all inform your music.

Remember, the goal is not to replicate Robert Johnson exactly, but to use his influence as a foundation for your own musical journey. Embrace your unique voice and let it shine through in your playing.

Final Thoughts

Playing guitar like Robert Johnson is about more than just technique; it’s about capturing the emotion and soul that defined his music. By exploring open tunings, fingerpicking, slide guitar, and the blues scale, you can begin to channel his spirit in your own playing. And remember, Riffhard offers lessons from some of the world’s best metal guitarists, helping you refine your skills and discover your unique sound. Keep practicing, stay inspired, and let your passion for music guide you.