Making it up on the spot

[Bunk McNulty]

I used to do this once a month, and for a while once a week, for my BL's open mic. First: Etiquette. If you are kicking off a riff for people to jam on, do tell them what key you're planning to be in.
Second: Don't invent on the opening, unless you've really got a plan. It's a jam, right? So start with the cliché of your choice. I'm old, so I have a whole bag full of Commodores, Ohio Players, Rick James, blahblahblah. And the Bernard Edwards playbook. Open with one of those, it lets everybody sort themselves out. If you're doing a rock thing, it's the same: A three-chorder in E (Eb if you have horns. Playing in Eb builds character). Whatever bag you're in, you probably already know some popular riffs. Pro tip: If you are the BL, learn how to give mic hogs/complete incompetents (often both at once!) Stinkeye. If you are the hired help, learn to give the BL stinkeye.

 

[bassbrad]

Yes & Yes. Much of what I have always done is jam on bass, pushing myself to be creative and explore, that is my joy that luckily other musicians enjoy as well. Studying music is a never ending source of joy as well, listening to as much music as possible, learning new songs and music. Studying other styles, instruments, melodies and solos is also helpful. It is all good to have in the old trick bag.

 

[Malcolm35]

The vii wants --- I'm Drawing a senior moment --- little help guys.

It came back --- The vii is a dominant chord like the V, except it is in no hurry to reach the I and often is used as a lead somewhere chord, like the beginning of a turn-a-round. So if you want to resolve right now use the V and if you just want to lead somewhere use the vii.

In case anyone cares......