Generic Phrases

What is the relationship of the first and second phrases in 12-bar blues?

a. The second phrase is usually the first phrase played backward b. The second phrase is the first phrase inverted c. The second phrase (a') is a variation on the first phrase (a) d. The second phrase is a highly contrasting episode e. There is no relation between the first and second phrases in a 12-bar blues

Public Comments

1. the relationship is quite plutonic.
2. F: the second phrase follows the first phrase in a 12-bar blues. There isn't enough information in your question to answer it properly as there are lots of potential phrasings available within the context of a 12-bar blues.
3. Perhaps this e-book can help you with your relationship? It's a free download so it's worth a shot I think.
4. f. the second phrase is the same line played in the key of the 4th relative to the first key for 2 bars, followed by a repeat of the original line for 2 bars ex: if phrase 1 is in A for 4 bars, phrase 2 will be in D for 2 bars and than back to A for 2 bars. 12 bar blues: 1st x 4 bars 4th x 2 bars 1st x 2 bars 5th x 1 bar 4th x 1 bar 1st x 2 bars
5. Often answer "c" but not always.
6. I don't believe your question can be properly answered from what you have posted. The first phrase of a 12 bar blues is the 1 chord. So if you were playing an A9 key blues, the first chord would be an A9. The next phrase would be a 4 chord. That is, a D9 chord. The next phrase is a 5 chord (an E9). 12 bar blues is typically a 1-4-5 chord progression.