Stablemates in La#

Stablemates in La#

Benny Golson's sophisticated bebop composition features a chromatic bridge built on ii-V sequences that shift through distant key centers, demanding rapid transitions between Bebop Major, Dorian, and Lydian scale choices. The harmonic surprise of the bridge after the relatively diatonic A sections creates a compelling structural contrast. A technically demanding tune that reveals Golson's mastery of chromatic harmonic architecture.

Stablemates in La#

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 B (ascending half step), B to E (ascending perfect fourth), E to A (ascending perfect fourth), A to C (ascending minor third), C to F (ascending perfect fourth), F to D# (descending whole step), D# to G# (ascending perfect fourth), G# to D (ascending tritone), D to G (ascending perfect fourth), G to G (ascending unison). A half-step bass movement creates a strong leading-tone pull that demands resolution. The root motion by larger intervals (fourths and fifths) gives each chord change a strong, decisive character. When the progression loops, the bass returns from G to A# by minor third.

Scales for Improvisation

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.