Mar 5, 2026
In episode 184 of the Guitar Music Theory podcast, Desi Serna breaks down the most important scale shape on the guitar: Pentatonic Pattern 1. This versatile pattern forms the foundation of countless riffs, licks, and solos across blues, rock, and country.
Desi explains how the pattern is constructed, why it’s commonly labeled “Pattern 1,” how it connects to the CAGED system, and how guitarists actually use it in real music. Along the way, you’ll hear familiar song examples that demonstrate how this simple shape becomes the backbone of expressive lead guitar playing.
LEAD GUITAR
UNLOCKED
This lesson is based on Chapter 2 of Desi’s book Lead Guitar Unlocked: Master Expressive
Soloing With the Pentatonic Scale.
Get your copy here:
https://www.amazon.com/Lead-Guitar-Unlocked-Expressive-Pentatonic/dp/B0FY4XH4TP
FREE VIDEO COURSE
If you’re not sure what you should practice next, visit Desi’s
website and receive free custom video instruction tailored to your
current skill level:
https://www.GuitarMusicTheory.com
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