Have you ever heard a song that you really liked and wished you could just sit down and jam along to the recording? \u2018Cissy Strut\u2019, by The Meters is one such song. There\u2019s a reason that this simple funk\/soul tune written in the 60s is still being covered and reinterpreted by countless bands to this day. Let\u2019s take a look at what makes this song so great.<\/p>\n\n\n\n
First thing\u2019s first, taking a look at the key the song is in. This song uses the C pentatonic scales for pretty much EVERYTHING. That means you can pretty much play it using only 5 notes. That\u2019s a lotta bang for your buck. <\/span><\/p>\n\n\n\n The tune is comprised of two main sections, plus a tasty little solo for good measure. Section \u2018A\u2019<\/strong> employs that pentatonic scale to create a catchy riff. That riff is comprised of the notes C, Bb, G, Eb, and C an octave below. After that phrase, there\u2019s a little tag to end the sequence where you pop down below the bottom C to play G, Bb, C, Bb, C.<\/span><\/p>\n\n\n\n This melodic sequence is followed by two chords, a Bb chord and an F chord. Since this song is such a good tune to build on your improvisation flexibility, don\u2019t just limit yourself to one variation of these chords. Experiment with different inversions to see what sounds and feels best to you! <\/span><\/p>\n\n\n\n The \u2018B\u2019 section<\/strong> of the song is even simpler than the \u2018A\u2019 section, containing only three notes: C, Bb, and G. Since this section uses such simple ingredients, it\u2019s a great opportunity to work on your feel. Cissy Strut is renown for being a song that uses these simple scales and chords, allowing musicians to really maximize their use of <\/span>space <\/span><\/em>and <\/span>critical listening <\/span><\/em>to keep the song fresh. <\/span><\/p>\n\n\n\n The final section of this song is an organ solo section<\/strong>. To accompany the solo, the instruments are keeping it nice and simple, playing off a C7 chord and leaving plenty of room for the soloist to do his thing. As you\u2019re practicing along, listen to what the other instruments are doing and try to iron out a little part of your own. Pay close attention to what that rhythm guitar is doing! It\u2019s a great guideline to follow along with. <\/span><\/p>\n\n\n\nBreaking Down Each Section<\/strong><\/h2>\n\n\n\n