Wow is this timely....  I told my instructor that it was time to work on what I suck at - improvising and playing over backing tracks.  We picked a Bm track from Marty's site and went to work, basically doing much of what you talked about in this video.

I am working on, as you advocate, landing on chord tones but using the Bm chromatic scale, then throwing in Bm harmonic scale during the V.  It seems to work.

BUT, my licks sound so simple, like nursery rhymes and sometimes I just can't help using a note not in the scale, or landing on a non chord tone.  

I think it also helps to work in a complete triad or double stop so I'm trying....

Other than "sticking at it" and spending time with my guitar, any tips on moving to the "story telling" level?

Jeff, there are a few things you can do.

1. Copy others. Maybe the most effective way. Steal/borrow/internalize.
2. Sing the phrases. Just hum along and try make some interesting lines. Then copy them onto the guitar.
3. Practice rhythms - 1/4, 1/8, 1/16 and triplets for each. Try to mix the rhythms appropriately to come up with lines.
4. Use rests
5. Emphasize certain notes.
6. Repeat licks, when you want to emphasize your statements. Milk those lines!

There's a time to really study and be patient and learn the whys and wherefores and there's a time to go a bit crazy when practicing and break the rules

Dont worry about hitting a wrong note,   Set your muse free and really go for it!

RECORD yourself and play  it back.  Its surprising what new licks come out!!

Posted by: robert

I'm hoping you'll get something out of these videos. I also hope you will like my improvised solo in the beginning!

I really enjoyed that,  at one with your muse!!! 😍 

I posted the wrong URL... sorry here it is> https://www.masterguitaracademy.com/course/how-to-practice-over-backing-tracks/

Thanks for the reply Robert! I'm working on each of these. It sure doesn't come overnight.  One of these days I'll work up the courage to post some video!

Yes, great Jeff! Looking forward to hearing you!

Ditto Craig, so good to see a player in tune with the spirits.

Hello Robert - on this lesson about at the time 0f 3:30 you mention a 'super eagle' pedal that you use to sustain the chord.  What is the full name of the pedal and who sells it?  

PS - I really am very thankful for you putting this site together.  Best investment I've made in my life long journey learning to play the guitar.

It's called Super Ego by Electro-Harmonix. It's really useful. Their Freeze pedal does the same thing.

I've been meaning to post that I thought this was a great video with great practice ideas...

thanks Robert!