La# Ascending Augmented
I – I+ – I6 – I7 progression in La# major
La# Ascending Augmented — I – I+ – I6 – I7
The A# Ascending Augmented progression (A# – A#aug – A#6 – A#7) is a line-cliché technique: the bass holds the tonic while an inner voice climbs I–aug–vi, creating yearning tension that demands resolution. The Whole Tone scale fits the augmented chord precisely; Major and Mixolydian cover the surrounding diatonic chords. Augmented harmony appears in both jazz ballads and classic pop introductions for good reason. With seventh voicings (A#Maj7 – A#aug – A#6 – A#7), the chromatic ascent gains full harmonic richness.
Playing in La# major
A# (Bb) major requires barre chords rooted at fret 1 on the A string or fret 6 on the E string. Despite the barre demands, it is a common key in funk, New Orleans R&B, and brass band music. The open D string can ring as the major third for added color. A# is a intermediate-level key on guitar because the open D string is the major 3rd of Bb, adding a bright color if allowed to ring. Expect to rely on barre chords throughout, which builds hand strength and unlocks the entire fretboard.
Voice Leading
The bass line moves through A# to A# (ascending unison), A# to A# (ascending unison), A# to A# (ascending unison). The predominantly stepwise bass motion creates smooth, connected voice leading. When the progression loops, the bass returns from A# to A# by unison.
Capo Transposition
To play in A# using familiar open chords: capo 1 with open A shapes; capo 3 with open G shapes; capo 6 with open E shapes. Choose the capo position that gives you the voicings you prefer — lower capo positions produce a fuller sound, while higher positions create a brighter, mandolin-like timbre.
Scales for Soloing
A# major pentatonic works because every note is either a chord tone or a safe passing tone — there are no avoid notes. For soloing, this means you can play freely without clashing. Over dominant seventh chords, A# Mixolydian adds the flat seventh for an authentic blues-rock edge.
Strumming Pattern
Use D-DU-UDU at 100-120 BPM for a standard pop strum. Accent beats 2 and 4 for a backbeat feel. Vary dynamics between verse (lighter) and chorus (stronger) to build energy.