I guess learning songs and learning licks is flat out memorization when you come down to it. So, maybe try some of those licks you learn over songs you know. Fit them in, try and feel the timing how you can mix andf match stuff into the song.
Especially with the Blues, bro... improv and feeling are what it's all about. It's kind of like a car: built with many, many parts, most of which are small and easily understood, but combined into a mighty machine of speed and sound! :)
Sometimes you got to just close your eyes, pretend someone's listening and play for them.
...so ever since then, I always hang on to the buckle.
