This solo is from the Jamzone where we are exploring the E blues scale on lead guitar.

You REALLY should practice using the 3 scales from this ActionTab before getting stuck into this solo. The more familiar you are with the underlying scales, the easier you will find this solo. Warm up with them. Spend at least 10 minutes going up and down through each scale. It is very important to get used to the scales, not just for this solo, but for when you want to create your own solos. With enough scale practice your fingers will naturally find the right fret positions!

In this solo we stick solely to those 3 scale positions. Here's the position switches mapped out as the solo progresses:

Position 1 (i.e. Open position - Lowest on the fretboard)

Position 2 (i.e. Fret 7 scale)

Position 3 (i.e. Fret 12 scale)

Position 2

Position 3

Now why would we swap between scale positions in a solo? Well there are a number of possible reasons:

1. Different positions cover different octave ranges. So you have more scope to your solo. For example, playing in Position 1 (open position) gives lower notes, so a lower range, whereas positions 2 and 3 each give a progressively higher range. This gives you more melodic options overall.

2. Each position has strengths and weaknesses. This is bit like different chord shapes. Ever notice how some chords are harder to play than others? That's down to the position of the notes on the fretboard. Scales are no different. Some scale runs and licks are easier in some positions than others.

3. What else you're playing. For example, you may be playing a rhythm guitar part around the open position. In that case, it would be quite natural (and easier) to start soloing at a lower fret position!