Target notes in other genres that jazz

Kuras

Hi all,

I’m learning some standards from the Real Book and my friend suggested focusing on the 3rds, 5ths, and 7ths when soloing in jazz, avoiding the root. I applied this idea to a 12-bar blues ending on the b7s and it sounded great but very bluesy. It got me thinking about other blues related genres like jump blues or swing. Should I 3rds, 5ths and maybe the 6ths instead for a lighter sound? How would this approach work in soling in other genres?

Brad

Target notes are target notes, they are not genre specific. Take this approach to different genres and see what results you get... 

Learning how to phrase with different tones is a great exercise. Using a 6th instead of a b7 will give a different sound to a phrase, explore it. 

Please don't avoid root notes. Miles didn't, neither should you. How do I know this? Because I transcribe and if you want to get to grips with this stuff, I mean properly, you should transcribe too. It's the best way to develop understanding of the idiom. There are no avoid notes, I prefer the term "handle with care" notes.