Playing chords behind solos

[Gazaridis]

They way I'm learning theory is to learn it a bit at a time, when I see the need for it (I still havent seen the point of scales, can someone show me the light??). So what Im asking is what part of theory do I need to play the right chords behind a solo (the one in mind is made up of power chords on a slide guitar)? Or is it just figure it out by ear?

[ghodaddyyo]

Chords are based on scales. The major scale is the ruler by which all other scales and chords are measured.

For instance, lets take the CMaj scale:
C-D-E-F-G-A-B, then back to C.

The CMaj chord requires the root(1), the 3rd, and the 5th note of the CMaj scale.
This would be C-E-G. Next time you play a CMaj chord, check to see if those notes are in there. The remaining notes in the typical CMaj Barre chord or open position C chord are just duplicates of C-E-G, which makes the chord sound richer.

So back to your question, You'll have to figure out what scale this "solo" is based on. This will aid you in finding what chords will compliment the melody the solo is implying.

Now I'm just trying to get a grip on theory myself, but hopefully this will get you started, and hopefully, others here (Stone, you out there?) can fill you in a little more. http://www.zentao.com/ubb/smilies/smokin.gif



[This message has been edited by ghodaddyyo (edited November 06, 2000).]

[StoneDragon]

Scales are the root of all music. Everything from chords to songs to lead solos are based on scales. Understanding how scales work (and being able to play them) provides you with a map for music (and your fingerboard).

Usually it is easier to already have the chord progression and apply the solo to the progression. If you already have the solo worked out... then you will need to know which scale(s) the solo follows and which chords can also be built out of the same scale(s). Then it's a matter of using your own sense of what sounds good to combine chords that fit well with your solo.

Knowing all the theory will never replace having to use your ears.... that's like thinking that a painter who knows all the theory of lines and circles would never have to actually look at which colors are being used.

[StoneDragon]

HA HA.... looks like ghodaddyyo beat me to the punch.