Expert: Abdalla Mohamed Ali - 3/14/2010

Question
Hi, I'm a jazz singer simply looking for a LIST of songs that use the 12-Bar Blues, so I can learn the structure and get a feel for improvising and "mixing" songs together....

Blues with a structure and chord progressions of
I/I/I/I;
IV/IV/I/I;
V/IV/I/I;

Songs that, no matter what the melody and how it relates to the rhythm, will "fit" the bass line/ chord progression.
So far I've discovered "Fine and Mellow," "Route 66," "Red Top" and "Centerpiece."

This Q would probably be researched best in a Blues "fake book" with sheet music showing the structure. If I owned one, I would do this myself.

I'm hoping for a clear list of song title, followed by who wrote it, and, if possible, most popular recording artist.
I don't need any websites because I plan on looking them up on my own.

I've already looked up the "Best Blues Songs" kind of websites, but those aren't giving me what I need.
Thank you SO MUCH for considering my question, anything is appreciated.
Thank you for your time, Mr. Ali
~Rebecca~

Answer

Hi Rebecca,


    Thanks for you question, however, I am not sure if I can help much here, see I am only a blues music enthusiast but I don't know much about the technical side and I do not play music.

But I am honored by the fact that you are a singer, I will try some help.

Further On Up the Road: Idk who wrote it but popular performers Bobby Bland, David Honeyboy Edwards, Magic Slim and Clapton.

St. Louis Blues: W.C Handy wrote it, Bessie Smith's version is popular, also check Ella Fitzgerald's and Louis Armstrong's. Look up more W.C. Handy songs, I am sure alot of his songs will fit the pattern you looking for.


Johnny B. Good: Chuck Berry ( I/I/I/I/IV/IV) shuffle


Elmore James: Dust My Broom

Elmore James: Pickin' The Blues & Bobby's Rock


Hope that helped, please tell me if there is anything else I can help with.

regards,

Abdalla