Folk Jazz is what could be described as a unique fusion of Jazz with other American roots styles. These influences include R&B, Blues, Country, Singer/songwriter styles, and ultimately, folk.

Taking turns soloing with other musicians is a tried and true way to level up your improvisational skills and expand your vocabulary. So, in this Folk Jazz edition of Trading Solos, you’ll trade solos with Adam Levy over some common folk-jazz grooves.

Here are six free video guitar lessons from the course. For the full course, check out Adam Levy’s Trading Solos: Folk Jazz on TrueFire!

Guitar Lesson – Folk Jazz Sonic Approaches – Tone & Gear Tips


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For playing folk jazz, the signal chain can be kept pretty simple. Generally, the more organic the tone, the better. I’ve got just six stompboxes (plus a power supply) on my board. In sequential order: tuner, compressor, booster/EQ, overdrive, tremolo, and delay.

Guitar Lesson – Track 3: Gown & Gentry – Track Overview


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“Gown & Gentry” is in the key of A major. The 4/4 feel here is laid back, with a “Stand by Me” sort of vibe that’s really fun to jam over.

Guitar Lesson – Track 3: Gown & Gentry – Three Rhythm Ideas: Demo


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The first rhythm-guitar idea for “Gown & Gentry” is simply playing sustained chords (or “pads”) as the progression rolls on. Using open strings within the voicings gives the chords a chimey quality. The second idea is more rhythmically active and employs palm muting for percussive effect. The third idea uses simple chord shapes in a syncopated rhythm that pushes and pulls against the basic pulse.

Guitar Lesson – Track 3: Gown & Gentry – Three Soloing Ideas: Demo


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All three soloing ideas for “Gown & Gentry” use simple melodic lines harmonized in parallel intervals. The first idea is in 3rds, the second is in 6ths, the third is in 10ths. These intervals sound sweet on the guitar and are relatively easy to grab.

Guitar Lesson – Track 3: Gown & Gentry – Playalong Preview


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In this Playalong Preview, you’ll see how these rhythm and soloing ideas fit together.

Guitar Lesson – Let’s Trade Solos – Track 3: Playalong


Download the tab & notation for this folk-jazz guitar lesson

Now it’s time to make some music together. Let’s trade solos!

Digging these free guitar lessons? Check out Adam Levy’s full course, Trading Solos: Folk Jazz.