Guitar Practice
Jam Track in E
Today, we have a jam track based on the I III7 IV V chords in the key of E Major.
While it's a pretty straightforward progression - in that it only uses 4 chords, the G#7 chord presents a bit of a challenge.
While the key of E Major does contain a G#, it's typically a minor chord (G#m or G#m7). The G#7 chord is secondary dominant (III7 in the key of E).
Let's take a look at the progression:
To solo over this progression, an E Major Scale would work well over all the chords except for the G#7.
When passing over the G#7 chord, there are a couple approaches you can take:
- Play a G# scale, such as G# mixolydian, or an altered scale.
- Play an E Major Scale, but change the C# note to C when playing over the G#7. Or you could think more in terms of chord tones, instead of scales. This is the simpler approach.
Sample E Major Scale:
Guitarist Spotlight
Ari Joshua
Ari is a jazz, rock, experimental, improv musician
Ari Joshua is a dynamic jazz, rock, experimental, & improv guitarist, known for his ability to blend a variety of musical styles, including jazz, rock, funk, and world music. Born in Cape Town, South Africa, and raised in Seattle, Washington, Ari was surrounded by a wide range of sounds from a young age. He picked up the guitar at age nine and quickly developed a deep passion for music that would guide his future career.
Ari went on to study at the prestigious New School for Jazz and Contemporary Music in New York City. There, he had the chance to learn from world-class musicians such as Reggie Workman, Robert Glasper, and Sam Yahel. This experience helped him sharpen his technique, expand his musical vocabulary, and shape his voice as an artist.
Over the years, Ari has been part of several music projects and bands. He co-founded Big High, a Seattle-based rock band known for its raw energy and psychedelic edge. He also leads the Ari Joshua Trio, where his jazz roots and improvisational talents shine. His solo work and collaborations are often a mix of multiple genres, marked by expressive guitar lines, rich harmonies, and a unique melodic sensibility.
Ari has recorded with and collaborated with some of today's top instrumental musicians, including Robert Glasper, Marco Benevento, John Medeski, Joe Russo, Ray Paczkowski, Russ Lawton, Delvon Lamarr, & Skerik.
Beyond performing, Ari is also a dedicated educator. He’s taught at music schools, led workshops, and mentored aspiring musicians of all ages. His approach to teaching is fueled by a deep love for the guitar and a desire to help others discover their own musical voice.
Ari also founded the Music Factory music school, and his own record label, Music Factory Records. He's set to release a new album titled SWYWS with a new project called The All's Eye on May 9th, 2025.
Ari has built a growing catalog of recordings, both in the studio and captured live, that highlight his wide-ranging talent and musical curiosity. His work has earned him a strong reputation among peers and fans.. Whether performing on stage, recording in the studio, or teaching in the classroom, Ari Joshua continues to explore new creative directions, always with passion, purpose, and a spirit of innovation.
Recommended Listening
RAAR Trio (Ari Joshua, Ray Paczkowski, Russ Lawton) - Apple Music | Spotify
Check out Ari Joshua
Website | Instagram | Facebook | Apple Music | Spotify
Gear Showcase
Josh Williams Guitars
Josh Williams Guitars is a small, boutique guitar company based in Vista, California. It was started by Josh Williams, a musician and luthier with a deep love for great tone, craftsmanship, and vintage design. His goal is to build guitars that feel amazing to play, sound incredible, and inspire musicians every time they pick one up.
Josh’s journey into guitar making began with a strong passion for both music and working with his hands. He studied at the Roberto-Venn School of Luthiery, where he learned how to build both acoustic and electric guitars. After that, he worked at The Blue Guitar in San Diego doing guitar repairs and trained under expert luthier Yuris Zeltins, learning techniques like French polishing and traditional methods of building classical guitars. These experiences helped him build a deep understanding of what makes a guitar truly special.
Today, Josh and his small team build every guitar by hand, paying close attention to detail. Each instrument is crafted one at a time using high-quality materials and time-tested methods. Popular models like the Mockingbird and Stella are inspired by vintage guitars from the 1950s and ‘60s, but are made to meet the needs of modern players. Every guitar can be customized — from neck shape to pickups to finish — so each one is truly unique.
Josh Williams Guitars has become a favorite among professional musicians and serious players. Artists like Ariel Posen, Joey Landreth, Josh Smith, and Ahren Shreeve (watch Ahren demo the Stella) have all played these guitars, drawn to their rich tone, smooth playability, and stylish vintage look.
With a strong focus on quality over quantity, Josh Williams Guitars continues to earn respect in the music world as one of the top builders of handmade, boutique electric guitars.
What Makes Josh Williams Guitars Stand Out:
- Handcrafted from Start to Finish
Every guitar is built by hand, with attention to every detail. - Customizable Options
Players can choose their favorite wood, neck size, pickups, and finishes. - Vintage Look, Modern Feel
Designs inspired by old-school guitars, updated for today’s players.
Check out Josh Williams Guitars
News & Notes
- Fender announced a new Player II Modified series of electric guitars & basses. The lineup takes their Popular Player II Models, and adds some great upgraded features such as locking tuners, push-pull switching, a tusk nut, upgraded pickups, and new color options.
- D'Angelico released a new limited edition Vintage Sunburst finish for their budget-friendly Premier DC semi-hollow guitar.
- Epiphone released a Guitar-Center exclusive limited-edition Les Paul Custom Widow in Indigo Burst.
- Gibson announced the limited edition Serj Tankian “Foundations” Les Paul Modern. The signature model of the System of a Down frontman is limited to only 25 models, and features a weight-relieved mahogany body, maple top with sublimation-printed Serj Tankian artwork, mahogany neck with a SlimTaper profile and aModern Contoured Heel.
- The Chasing Tone Podcast interviewed guitarist Ira Dean, getting the lowdown on writing, recording, and touring from the Nashville legend.
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