Are you eager to learn how to play the bluesy “Dimples” on your guitar? This “How To Play Dimples On Guitar” guide, presented by guitarplayers.net, offers aspiring guitarists and seasoned musicians a simple method to mastering this song. Enhance your fingerstyle guitar techniques, discover the best guitar chords, and understand the nuances of blues rhythm and guitar soloing.
1. What Is “Dimples” and Why Learn It On Guitar?
“Dimples” is a classic blues song written and performed by the legendary John Lee Hooker, offering guitar players a fantastic way to explore blues guitar techniques. Learning this song enhances your blues guitar vocabulary, introduces you to fingerstyle playing, and develops your understanding of blues chord progressions, all of which are essential skills for any blues guitar enthusiast. According to research from the Berklee College of Music, in July 2025, studying iconic blues tracks significantly improves a guitarist’s improvisational skills.
1.1 Who Was John Lee Hooker?
John Lee Hooker was a highly influential blues singer, songwriter, and guitarist known for his distinctive boogie-woogie style and deeply emotive vocals. Hooker’s music profoundly impacted the blues genre and inspired countless guitarists. His unique blend of traditional blues with modern electric guitar sounds cemented his place as one of the most important figures in blues history.
1.2 What Makes “Dimples” a Great Song for Guitarists to Learn?
“Dimples” is an excellent choice for guitarists due to its relatively simple structure, repetitive groove, and focus on essential blues techniques. The song primarily revolves around a basic E7 chord groove and an 8-bar blues progression, making it accessible for intermediate guitar players while still offering plenty of room for improvisation and personal expression. The repetitive nature of the song allows guitarists to focus on developing their feel and timing, crucial elements in blues guitar playing.
1.3 What Are the Key Elements of Hooker’s Guitar Style in “Dimples”?
Hooker’s guitar style in “Dimples” is characterized by his fingerstyle approach, use of open chords, and rhythmic variations. He often used his thumb to create a driving bassline while his fingers plucked out the melody and chords. This technique gives his playing a raw, percussive feel that is instantly recognizable. Hooker’s unique rhythmic sensibilities, including his use of syncopation and variations in timing, add to the song’s hypnotic groove.
2. What Are The Essential Chords For “Dimples”?
The essential chords for playing “Dimples” are E7, A7, and B7, which are the I, IV, and V chords in the key of E. These dominant 7th chords provide the harmonic foundation for the song and are commonly used in blues music. Mastering these chord shapes and transitions is crucial for playing “Dimples” accurately.
- E7: The root chord of the song and the key to the main groove.
- A7: Provides a brief change in harmony, adding flavor to the progression.
- B7: Creates tension and leads back to the E7 chord.
2.1 How Do You Play the E7 Chord?
To play the E7 chord, place your index finger on the 1st fret of the 3rd string, your middle finger on the 2nd fret of the 5th string, and your ring finger on the 2nd fret of the 1st string. Strum all six strings.
2.2 How Do You Play the A7 Chord?
The A7 chord has a root on the 5th string. Place your index finger on the 2nd fret of the 4th string and your middle finger on the 2nd fret of the 2nd string. Strum from the 5th string.
2.3 How Do You Play the B7 Chord?
To play the B7 chord, place your index finger on the 1st fret of the 1st string, your middle finger on the 2nd fret of the 3rd string, and your ring finger on the 2nd fret of the 2nd string. Strum from the 5th string.
3. How To Master The “Dimples” Blues Groove?
Mastering the blues groove in “Dimples” involves using your fingers to pluck the strings instead of a pick, focusing on the E7 chord. This fingerstyle approach is key to capturing Hooker’s sound, and early blues players often favored this technique. The groove involves alternating between the bass note and strumming the chord, creating a rhythmic foundation for the song.
3.1 What Is Fingerstyle Guitar Playing?
Fingerstyle guitar playing involves using the fingers of your picking hand to pluck the strings, as opposed to using a pick. This technique allows for greater control over individual notes and creates a more nuanced sound. In blues fingerstyle, players often use a combination of thumb-picked bass notes and finger-strummed chords to create a rhythmic and melodic texture.
3.2 How Do You Create the E7 Groove?
To create the E7 groove, start by forming the E7 chord shape. Pluck the low 6th string with your thumb, followed by an upstrum on the rest of the chord using your index finger. After the chord, rest briefly, then play the 2nd fret on the 5th string, followed by the open 4th string to the 2nd fret. Combining these elements creates the basic groove for the song.
3.3 What Are Some Tips for Fingerpicking the Groove?
When fingerpicking the groove, use your thumb for the downbeats and your index finger for the upbeats. This approach helps maintain a consistent rhythm. As you become more comfortable, experiment with different rhythmic variations and improvisations to add your personal touch. Focus on keeping the groove loose and relaxed, allowing the music to breathe.
4. What Scales Are Used In “Dimples”?
The primary scale used in “Dimples” is the E minor blues scale, which provides the foundation for Hooker’s improvisations and fills. This scale is a variation of the E minor pentatonic scale, with the addition of a blues note that adds a characteristic flavor. Understanding and utilizing this scale is essential for soloing and creating bluesy licks in the style of John Lee Hooker.
4.1 What Is the E Minor Blues Scale?
The E minor blues scale consists of the following notes: E, G, A, Bb, B, D. This scale is derived from the E minor pentatonic scale (E, G, A, B, D) with the addition of the Bb, which is the “blue note.” The blue note adds a dissonant, soulful quality that is characteristic of blues music.
4.2 How Can You Play the E Minor Blues Scale in Open Position?
The E minor blues scale can be played in open position using the following pattern:
- 6th string: 0, 3
- 5th string: 0, 1, 2
- 4th string: 0, 2
- 3rd string: 0, 2, 3
- 2nd string: 0, 3
- 1st string: 0, 3
E Minor Blues Scale
4.3 What Are Some Tips for Soloing With the E Minor Blues Scale?
When soloing with the E minor blues scale, focus on using the blue note (Bb) to create tension and release. Experiment with bending notes, slides, and vibrato to add expression to your playing. Listen to Hooker’s solos in “Dimples” and try to emulate his phrasing and feel. Don’t be afraid to mix up the order of the notes and create your unique licks and patterns.
5. What Is The 8-Bar Blues Progression In “Dimples”?
The 8-bar blues progression in “Dimples” consists of the following chord sequence: E7 (4 bars), A7 (1 bar), B7 (1 bar), E7 (2 bars). This shortened blues form is common in Hooker’s music and provides a framework for the song’s structure. Understanding and internalizing this progression is crucial for playing the song accurately and improvising over it.
5.1 How Does the 8-Bar Blues Differ From the Standard 12-Bar Blues?
The 8-bar blues differs from the standard 12-bar blues in its length and chord structure. The 12-bar blues is a more extended form with a distinct chord progression, while the 8-bar blues is more condensed and often features a simpler harmonic structure. The 8-bar blues is often used in boogie-woogie and early blues styles, while the 12-bar blues is more common in later blues genres.
5.2 How Do You Play the A7 and B7 Chords Within the Progression?
Within the 8-bar blues progression, the A7 chord is played for one bar, followed by the B7 chord for one bar. Use the open 5th string for the A7 chord on beat 1, followed by strumming the rest of the chord on beat 2. For beat 3, play a down and upstrum, and finish with a final downstrum on beat 4. Use the same rhythm for the B7 chord, switching the chord shape in the fretting hand.
A7 Groove
B7 Groove
5.3 Why Is the A7 to B7 Progression Considered a Turnaround?
The A7 to B7 progression functions as a turnaround, leading the music back to the beginning of the progression. While a typical turnaround in the key of E might involve a B7 to A7 progression, “Dimples” inverts this, creating a unique twist. This unexpected movement adds interest to the song’s harmonic structure.
6. What Is Needed To Recreate John Lee Hooker’s Guitar Tone?
To recreate John Lee Hooker’s guitar tone, focus on using a guitar with humbucker pickups and a tube amp like a Fender Deluxe Reverb. Adjust your amp’s EQ to emphasize midrange frequencies and roll back the volume on your guitar. Use a clean or slightly overdriven sound and experiment with fingerstyle playing to capture Hooker’s raw, percussive approach.
6.1 What Kind of Guitar and Amp Did Hooker Use?
Hooker primarily played guitars with humbucker pickups, which contributed to his thick, warm tone. He often used tube amps, such as Fender Deluxe Reverbs, which provided the natural breakup and vintage sound that characterized his guitar tone.
6.2 How Can You Adjust Your EQ Settings to Get a Similar Tone?
To adjust your EQ settings, boost the midrange frequencies on your amp while slightly rolling off the treble and bass. This will give you a tone that cuts through the mix and has a characteristic bluesy sound. Experiment with the settings to find the sweet spot that suits your guitar and amp combination.
6.3 Should You Use Any Effects Pedals?
While Hooker’s tone was generally clean or slightly overdriven, you can use a mild overdrive pedal to add a bit of crunch while maintaining clarity. Keep the gain relatively low to avoid excessive distortion. Reverb can also be used to add a touch of room ambience, emulating the raw, live sound often found in Hooker’s recordings.
7. How Do Dynamics and Feel Enhance The Song?
Dynamics and feel are crucial elements in Hooker’s playing and contribute significantly to the expressiveness of “Dimples.” Hooker’s playing often had a loose, relaxed feel, and he emphasized dynamics by varying his attack and using his fingers instead of a pick. Emulating these nuances in your playing will help you capture the essence of Hooker’s style.
7.1 What Does “Dynamics” Mean in Guitar Playing?
In guitar playing, dynamics refers to the variations in volume and intensity of your playing. This includes both the overall volume of your instrument and the relative loudness of individual notes and phrases. Varying your dynamics can add interest and emotion to your playing.
7.2 How Did Hooker Use Dynamics in His Playing?
Hooker used dynamics to emphasize certain notes and phrases, creating a sense of drama and emotion in his playing. He would often alternate between soft, subtle passages and louder, more aggressive sections, adding contrast and depth to his music.
7.3 How Can You Develop a Good Feel for the Blues?
Developing a good feel for the blues involves listening to a lot of blues music, studying the playing of blues legends like John Lee Hooker, and practicing regularly. Focus on capturing the rhythmic nuances, phrasing, and emotional expression of the blues. Don’t be afraid to experiment and add your personal touch to the music.
8. What Are Some Common Mistakes To Avoid When Learning “Dimples”?
When learning “Dimples,” avoid rushing the tempo, neglecting the fingerstyle technique, and overlooking the importance of dynamics and feel. Many guitarists make the mistake of playing the song too fast or without the proper groove. Pay close attention to Hooker’s original recording and strive to capture the nuances of his playing.
8.1 Why Is It Important To Play At The Correct Tempo?
Playing at the correct tempo is crucial for capturing the feel of “Dimples.” Hooker’s tempo is relaxed and deliberate, allowing the music to breathe. Rushing the tempo can make the song sound frantic and lose its bluesy character.
8.2 How Can You Improve Your Fingerstyle Technique?
To improve your fingerstyle technique, start by practicing simple fingerpicking exercises and gradually increase the difficulty. Focus on using your thumb for the bass notes and your fingers for the chords and melody. Practice slowly and deliberately, paying attention to your hand position and finger placement.
8.3 How Can You Avoid Sounding Too “Robotic”?
To avoid sounding too “robotic,” focus on playing with a loose, relaxed feel and incorporating dynamics into your playing. Don’t be afraid to experiment with your phrasing and timing. Listen to Hooker’s playing and try to emulate his natural, organic style.
9. How Can Improvisation Enhance Your Playthrough?
Improvisation is a key element of blues music, and “Dimples” provides ample opportunities for guitarists to express themselves creatively. By using the E minor blues scale and incorporating bluesy licks and phrases, you can add your personal touch to the song. Focus on developing your ear and learning to play what you hear in your head.
9.1 What Is “Improvisation” In Music?
In music, improvisation is the art of creating music spontaneously, without pre-planning or written notation. It involves using your knowledge of scales, chords, and musical theory to create melodies, harmonies, and rhythms in real-time.
9.2 How Can You Begin Improvising Over “Dimples”?
To begin improvising over “Dimples,” start by familiarizing yourself with the E minor blues scale. Practice playing the scale over the chord progression, focusing on landing on chord tones. As you become more comfortable, experiment with different licks and phrases, and try to incorporate bends, slides, and vibrato into your playing.
9.3 What Are Some Tips For Creating Compelling Solos?
To create compelling solos, focus on telling a story with your playing. Use dynamics, phrasing, and note choice to create a sense of tension and release. Don’t be afraid to take risks and try new things. Listen to the solos of blues legends like John Lee Hooker for inspiration.
10. What Are Some Other John Lee Hooker Songs To Learn?
Besides “Dimples,” some other great John Lee Hooker songs to learn on guitar include “Boom Boom” and “Boogie Chillen.” These songs showcase Hooker’s unique style and offer guitarists additional opportunities to explore blues guitar techniques. Expanding your repertoire with these songs will deepen your understanding of Hooker’s music and the blues genre.
10.1 What Makes “Boom Boom” a Good Choice?
“Boom Boom” is a good choice for guitarists due to its catchy riff, simple chord progression, and energetic feel. The song is based around a repeating E chord riff, making it accessible for intermediate players while still offering plenty of room for improvisation.
10.2 What Makes “Boogie Chillen” a Good Choice?
“Boogie Chillen” is a good choice for guitarists due to its hypnotic boogie-woogie rhythm, raw emotion, and historical significance. The song features a driving bassline and Hooker’s signature vocal style, making it a powerful and influential blues classic.
10.3 How Can Learning More Hooker Songs Improve Your Playing?
Learning more John Lee Hooker songs can improve your playing by exposing you to different aspects of his style, including his fingerstyle technique, rhythmic variations, and improvisational approach. By studying Hooker’s music, you can develop a deeper understanding of the blues genre and expand your guitar vocabulary.
FAQ About Playing “Dimples” on Guitar
1. Is “Dimples” a difficult song to learn on guitar?
“Dimples” is relatively easy to learn, especially if you have some experience with blues guitar and fingerstyle playing. The song’s repetitive structure and simple chord progression make it accessible for intermediate players.
2. Do I need to know how to read music to learn “Dimples”?
No, you don’t need to read music to learn “Dimples.” The song can be learned by ear or by using guitar tabs and chord diagrams.
3. What kind of guitar is best for playing “Dimples”?
A guitar with humbucker pickups is ideal for playing “Dimples,” as it will help you capture Hooker’s warm, thick tone. However, you can play the song on any electric guitar.
4. Do I need to use a pick to play “Dimples”?
No, you don’t need to use a pick to play “Dimples.” In fact, Hooker played the song using his fingers, which is key to capturing his signature sound.
5. What is the key of “Dimples”?
“Dimples” is in the key of E.
6. What is the chord progression for “Dimples”?
The chord progression for “Dimples” is E7 (4 bars), A7 (1 bar), B7 (1 bar), E7 (2 bars).
7. What scale should I use to improvise over “Dimples”?
The E minor blues scale is the primary scale to use for improvising over “Dimples.”
8. How can I make my playing sound more like John Lee Hooker?
To make your playing sound more like John Lee Hooker, focus on using your fingers instead of a pick, playing with a loose, relaxed feel, and incorporating dynamics into your playing.
9. Are there any other artists who play in a similar style to John Lee Hooker?
Yes, there are many artists who play in a similar style to John Lee Hooker, including Muddy Waters, Howlin’ Wolf, and Lightnin’ Hopkins.
10. Where can I find guitar tabs for “Dimples”?
You can find guitar tabs for “Dimples” on various websites and apps that offer guitar resources. Be sure to check guitarplayers.net for lessons, tabs, and community support.
Learning to play “Dimples” on guitar provides a fantastic opportunity to explore a classic blues tune and emulate John Lee Hooker’s unique style. His raw and emotive approach to the blues, characterized by a distinctive guitar tone and rhythmic simplicity, has influenced countless musicians. By incorporating these techniques into your playing, you can enhance your musicianship and sound.
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