Blues Music: Top 10 Books

Discover the Best Books on Blues Music

Blues music is more than just a genre; it’s a soulful journey that tells stories of struggle, triumph, and everything in between. Whether you’re a budding guitarist, a seasoned musician, or simply a blues enthusiast, finding the right resources can elevate your appreciation and understanding of this powerful art form. In this article, we’ll rank the top 10 books on blues music, each carefully selected to provide insights, techniques, and histories that enrich your blues experience.

Written by Alex Carter

10. Learn Guitar for Beginners – Guitar Book for Adults

Author: Norman Gänser
Rating: ★★★★☆ (4.3 out of 5 stars)
Norman Gänser’s Learn Guitar for Beginners is a fantastic starting point for adults looking to dive into the world of guitar, including blues. With over 100 video and audio files accessible via QR codes, this book is highly interactive, ensuring that beginners can grasp the essentials of guitar playing, including blues riffs and scales. Buy it here.

9. The Jazz Standards: A Guide to the Repertoire

Author: Ted Gioia
Rating: ★★★★☆ (4.7 out of 5 stars)
While primarily focused on jazz, Ted Gioia’s The Jazz Standards offers valuable insights into the improvisational skills essential for blues music. The book provides historical context and analysis of significant pieces, making it an excellent resource for those looking to deepen their musical knowledge. Buy it here.

8. Fingerstyle Blues Guitar: Master Acoustic Blues Guitar Fingerpicking and Soloing

Author: Mr. Joseph Alexander
Rating: ★★★★☆ (4.6 out of 5 stars)
Joseph Alexander’s Fingerstyle Blues Guitar is an indispensable guide for mastering acoustic blues fingerpicking. With clear instructions and a progressive approach, this book is perfect for guitarists looking to enhance their fingerstyle technique. Buy it here.

7. 60 Jazz Sheet Music for Alto Sax: 60 Popular songs For Alto Sax Solo

Author: Jovanni Garcia
Rating: ★★★☆☆ (4.3 out of 5 stars)
Although not exclusively blues, Jovanni Garcia’s collection of jazz sheet music includes many pieces that are foundational to blues music. This book is a great tool for saxophonists wanting to explore the interplay between jazz and blues. Buy it here.

6. Blues Guitar Licks in All 5 Positions: Blues Guitar Foundations

Author: Mr. Tim Daley
Rating: ★★★★★ (5.0 out of 5 stars)
Tim Daley’s Blues Guitar Licks in All 5 Positions is a beginner’s guide to mastering blues and pentatonic soloing across the fretboard. It’s a must-have for guitarists aiming to build a strong blues foundation. Buy it here.

5. King of the Blues: The Rise and Reign of B.B. King

Author: Daniel De Visé
Rating: ★★★★☆ (4.7 out of 5 stars)
Daniel De Visé’s biography, King of the Blues, chronicles the life of B.B. King, one of the most influential blues musicians of all time. This book is essential for understanding the cultural and musical impact of B.B. King. Buy it here.

4. Guitar Scales Workshop: 3 in 1 How To Solo Like a Guitar God

Author: Guitar Head
Rating: ★★★★☆ (4.6 out of 5 stars)
Guitar Head’s Guitar Scales Workshop is a comprehensive guide that helps aspiring guitarists solo like pros. The book’s step-by-step approach makes learning scales and creating solos accessible and fun. Buy it here.

3. Beginner Electric Guitar Lessons: Book with Online Video & Audio

Author: Peter Vogl
Rating: ★★★★☆ (4.5 out of 5 stars)
Peter Vogl’s Beginner Electric Guitar Lessons is an excellent resource for those starting on electric guitar. With online videos and audio support, this book covers all the basics, including essential blues techniques. Buy it here.

2. Melodic Blues Guitar Soloing: Master sophisticated blues improvisation with licks, solos, techniques, and concepts

Author: Mr. Tim Lerch
Rating: ★★★★★ (5.0 out of 5 stars)
Tim Lerch’s Melodic Blues Guitar Soloing is a masterclass in blues improvisation. The book covers sophisticated techniques and concepts, making it ideal for guitarists looking to take their blues playing to the next level. Buy it here.

1. Guitar Scales for Beginners: How to Solo Effortlessly and Create Your Own Music Even If You Don’t Know What A Scale Is

Author: Guitar Head
Rating: ★★★★☆ (4.6 out of 5 stars)
Topping our list is Guitar Scales for Beginners by Guitar Head. This book demystifies scales, making it easy for beginners to start soloing and creating their music. It’s a must-have for anyone serious about mastering the blues. Buy it here.

Embrace the Blues Journey

Whether you’re a beginner or a seasoned musician, these books provide the tools and knowledge you need to dive deep into the world of blues music. Each book offers unique insights, techniques, and histories that will enrich your understanding and playing of the blues. Happy reading and playing!

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Explore the top 10 books on blues music, offering insights, techniques, and histories to deepen your appreciation and mastery of the genre. Perfect for beginners and seasoned musicians alike.