The Secret Rule of Guide Tones: How to Move Between Chords Effortlessly
Breakthrough Concept:
When chords move by a fourth, guide tones move by half step.
For example, let’s take a Bb blues, such as Sonnymoon for Two:
Measure 1: Bb7
Guide tones: D or Ab
Measure 2: Eb7
Guide tones: Db or G
Notice that from Bb7 to Eb7, a movement up a fourth, the guide tones move by half step?
D moves down to Db
Ab moves down to G
This is known as “voice leading” in jazz.
Unsure what guide tones are? Check out one of my previous blog posts, “What are Guide Tones in Jazz?” In a quick recap, guide tones are the 3rds and 7ths of the chord, also called the “color notes,” or “shell voicings.” They are typically the most important indicators of harmony for the chord.
Even More Powerful: Shared Notes
Breakthrough #2: when you go from a minor chord to a dominant chord up by a fourth, they may share the same guide tone(s).
For example, also in Sonnymoon for Two:
Measure 9: Cm7
Guide tones: Eb and Bb
Measure 10: F7
Guide tones: A and Eb
Notice when you have a ii V7 in jazz, such as Cm7 to F7:
Eb stays the same
Bb goes down to A
Why this is Powerful Knowledge
Good voice leading, such as movement between guide tones, makes musicians sound:
smooth
polished
logical
connected
Pro Tip
Many teachers will use scales and modes, but pro players will think:
Where are my 3rds and 7ths going?
Practice Exercise
Practice a ii V7 with the following constraints:
Play only the guide tones
Try to connect them smoothly
No scales allowed
Practice Example (Freebie download!):
Play along with with the backing track. Scroll down to view a video tutorial as well. Happy practicing!
View the video below to learn more about guide tones. Put your requests for guide tone worksheets in the comments on YouTube!
