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Little Wing in A#
Key of A#
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 G to A# (ascending minor third), A# to Cb (ascending whole step), Cb to A# (descending whole step), A# to Cb (ascending whole step), Cb to C (ascending unison), C to C (ascending unison), C to D (ascending whole step), D to D (ascending unison), D to D (ascending unison), D to C# (descending half step), C# to Cb (descending half step), Cb to A# (descending whole step), A# to G# (descending whole step), G# to Cb (ascending major third), Cb to F (ascending perfect fourth), F to F (ascending unison), F to G (ascending whole step). A half-step bass movement creates a strong leading-tone pull that demands resolution. The predominantly stepwise bass motion creates smooth, connected voice leading. When the progression loops, the bass returns from G to G by unison.
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. Use the Lydian mode (raised 4th) over the IV chord for a dreamy, floating quality that lifts the harmony.