Choosing a key
Fri, 02/24/2017 - 12:04
Hello Mr. Barrett-
If a song features the 1, 4, and 5 chords of a certain key , but it's the 5 chord featured most prominently(specifically Not Fade Away by Buddy Holly, A,D, and E, but E is the staple) what key would you choose to play in? A Harp second position or D harp second position? Or none of the above?! Thanks in advance-Jesse Langford
Sat, 02/25/2017 - 10:12
#2
Not Fade Away key
Not Fade Away is actually in E. The D chord is the bVII chord of the key.
If you're trying to copy the early Rolling Stones version, try using two harmonicas (A and D) the way Brian Jones did. You can find video on YouTube showing him switching harps on this song.
Hello Jesse. If the song is in the key of A, then if you use an A harmonica you'll be playing in 1st Position. The benefit of playing an A harmonica is that when the V Chord comes, you'll essentially be playing in 2nd Position on that V Chord. I think it's worth trying it, it may work out well.
P.S., also try your D Harmonica in 2nd, you don't want to exclude it until you try it.