A Major Blues Shape 4

A Major Blues – Shape 4 is a scale pattern built around the fourth position of the major blues scale, typically associated with the C shape from the CAGED system. In this shape, the root note A falls within a fretting position that allows fluid access to both lower and higher strings, making it a versatile shape for lead playing.

The A Major Blues scale consists of the notes:
A – B – C – C# – E – F#

This is essentially the A major pentatonic scale (A, B, C#, E, F#) with the added flat third (C natural) — often referred to as the blue note. This note introduces chromatic tension and a bluesy flavor to an otherwise bright major sound.

Theoretical Highlights:
A (root)
B (major 2nd)
C (minor 3rd / blue note)
C# (major 3rd)
E (perfect 5th)
F# (major 6th)

This blend of major and minor elements creates the characteristic "sweet and sour" quality of the blues, making Shape 4 particularly expressive for melodic soloing and bending.

Chords in the A Major Blues Scale:
A – A7 – C♯dim – Bm – F♯m – E7
You can also play D7