Most guitar players tend to only bend a whole-step, or two frets in length, without realizing that many times a half-step, or one-fret bend can be just as effective. In some cases it can even be more effective. The musical effect is totally different, and in many ways possesses a sweeter, more melodic sound than most of our usual whole-step bends.
I often use them as part of “octave jump” licks, which will be taught here, as well as the melodic approach used by so many historic players like Grady Martin, Willie Nelson, Jerry Garcia and others. The half-step bend is most often associated with acoustic guitar, which makes sense since the strings are heavier and harder to bend than on most electrics.
It’s important to also note that in many of our whole-step bends we are simply "passing over" what could be our half-step option. The minor third rather than the major third, or major seventh as opposed to the root, serves as examples.
This is a rare lesson on a subject rarely dealt with, or even played. So enjoy … these are some of my favorite licks!—
Arlen Roth
The opinions, views, and ideas expressed are the author's own, and do not
necessarily reflect or represent the views of Gibson Guitar Corp. or the Gibson
Family of Brands. Send all thoughts, comments, disagreements, and rants to
editor@gibson.com. All e-mails will be considered
for publication.