Guitar Lessons

Below are all the lessons we offer. Use the search and the filtering to find the specific or group of lessons you’re looking.

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Featured Lessons

Basic Guitar Knowledge
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This lesson covers the parts of the acoustic and electric guitar, tuning, proper right and left hand technique, and a simple exercise to get your fingers moving and practice proper technique.  It is normal to find this exercise difficult at first.  It is OK to move forward with the lessons after practicing this exercise for a few days even if you do not have it mastered.  It is a work in progress.

Lesson 1- Guitar Basics and Your First Chord
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In this lesson we will be covering the basics such as parts of the guitar, tuning, how to hold it, fret notes, and strum.  We will also be learning our first chord! The G major chord

Malaguena Guitar Tab and Lesson
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In this lesson we will learn a basic rendition of the Malaguena. Malaguena is a very popular Spanish classic.  There are many versions out there but it very pliable in its arrangement.  As you will see in the Malaguena guitar tab and lesson it uses a repetitive picking pattern between the thumb and 1st or 2nd finger.

Fingerstyle Acoustic Ragtime Blues
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In this lesson we will be studying a fingerstyle ragtime blues. Ragtime Blues is made up of a different chord progression than the typical I-IV-V 12 Bar blues. It follows a I-III- VI-II-V-I with a bVI turnaround.  One of the key defining elements of acoustic blues is the use of the alternating bassline with the thumb.  While this style can be tricky to get down, it is well worth the effort.

Man of Constant Sorrow
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Learn this bluesy bluegrass tune from the movie Brother Where Art Thou. The tune requires Drop D tuning and a capo on the 3rd fret. Basic chords include D, G, and A. The song applies a bluesy line that recurs throughout the tune.

Review of Major Scale Modes
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This lesson is a review of the Modes of the Major Scale. I tried to answer some of the questions students have had regarding the modes.

Little Martha by The Allman Brothers
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In this lesson we will be learning the instrumental Little Martha. The song is played fingerstyle with open E tuning.

Come As You Are by Nirvana
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Come As You Are by Nirvana has a little of everything. Great riff, cool chords, and simple, effective solo. Must tune down a whole step to be in tune and get that sound.

Lay Down Sally by Eric Clapton
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In this lesson we will be learning Lay Down Sally by Eric Clapton. The song consists of just 3 chords in the key of A, A, D, and E. The tune has a country blues feel with a little bassline within the guitar part. The parts combine chords, basslines, and blues riffs. The recording has 2 guitar tracks throughout. I have combined these two parts into one resembling the most noticeable of the parts.

Lose Yourself by Eminem
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Its not often that you hear guitar as the main instrument in the rap genre, but this one is an exception. The power chord riff sets the mood and groove for the vibe of the song. The song is played in Dm and implies 3 different chords from the D power chord position.

Norwegian Wood by the Beatles
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In this lesson we will study the song Norwegian Wood by the Beatles.

Blackbird by the Beatles
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In this lesson we will be learning the classic acoustic guitar song Blackbird by Paul McCartney and the Beatles. This is a great fingerstyle style piece that is sure to impress. Blackbird chords are unique in that there are no full open chords used throughout the tune.  McCartney is specifically picking specific notes of implied chords creating a beautiful melodic piece.  Specifically the root note on E or A string and the B string are highlighted with an open G ringing throughout.

Beginner Guitar Lessons

Basic Guitar Knowledge
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This lesson covers the parts of the acoustic and electric guitar, tuning, proper right and left hand technique, and a simple exercise to get your fingers moving and practice proper technique.  It is normal to find this exercise difficult at first.  It is OK to move forward with the lessons after practicing this exercise for a few days even if you do not have it mastered.  It is a work in progress.

Simple Songs
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This lesson covers Left hand positions, reading simple tabliture, and learning some familiar song melodies, applying single note playing.

The Major Scale – Building Blocks of Music
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This lesson covers the Major scale and some basic musical terms

Major Scale Application
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This lesson covers a few familiar tunes that use the major scale. Happy Birthday and When The Saints Go Marching In are used as examples.

Major Scale Application Part 2
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In this lesson you will learn two more simple song riffs that use the Major scale. One is in the style of Greenday and the other is a common New Orleans blues riff.

Major Scale Octave 2
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This lesson covers the meaning of Intervals and the second octave of a major scale.

Star Spangled Banner
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This lesson applies the two octave major scale to The Star Spangled Banner.

Power Chords
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This lesson covers power chords in the open position and 12 bar blues chord pattern. Power chords are easy two finger chords prominent in rock and pop music.

Move Those Chords
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This lesson covers movable power chords outside of the open position.

The Notes
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This lesson covers some basic music theory and how to find the notes on the guitar.

Smoke on the Water by Deep Purple
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This is a song study of Smoke on the Water by Deep Purple

Rolling in the Deep by Adele
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In this lesson we will learn Rolling in the Deep by Adele. This is a great tune for beginners as it uses only power chords.

Finger Exercises
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This lesson introduces several finger exercises to help improve, finger independence, muscle memory, and finger dexterity. Don’t get discouraged if you can’t get this one right away! It is meant to be tough.

Minor Scale
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This lesson introduces the Minor scale and how it relates to the Major Scale.

12 Bar Blues Revisited
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This lesson will cover the 12 bar blues in further detail with an added finger technique and simple turnaround. A turnaround is a passage at the end of a section which leads to the next section.

Power Chords and Riffs
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This lesson shows you ways to combine power chords and single note riffs similar to ACDC, and ZZ Top. You will also learn a few chord exercises.

Iron Man by Black Sabbath
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This lesson is a song study of Iron Man by Black Sabbath.

Introducing the Metronome
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This lesson will show you a free online metronome and how to use it in your practice routine.

12 Bar Blues Riff
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This lesson will teach you how to apply riffs to the 12 Bar Blues pattern. You will also be working on right hand picking technique.

Sunshine of Your Love
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In this lesson we will do a song study of the classic Cream song Sunshine of Your Love.

Minor Scale Octave 2
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In this lesson you will learn the 2nd octave of the minor scale.

Power Chords Revisited
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This lesson explores how to play power chords differently using a 4th interval sound.

Ear Training and Intervals
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This lesson talks about ear training and how to identify the intervals of the Major Scale.

Changing Strings
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In this lesson you will learn the proper way to change your guitar strings.

Intro To Chords – G and Em
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In this lesson you will be introduced to your first open chords. The chords covered in this lesson are G Major and E minor.

C Major and A minor Chords
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This lesson covers the C Major and A minor open chords and the idea of shared fingers among chords.

Chord Exercises
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This lesson will give you a couple exercises that will help you with chord fingerings.

Chord Theory and Charts
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This lesson covers chord charts, chords written in tabliture, and the roman numeral system for chords and how it relates to the Major scale.

Your First Chord Progression
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In this lesson you will learn a chord progression with the four chords you know thus far and how they relate to the key of G and the G Major scale.

A, D, and E Major chords
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This lesson shows you how to play the open chords A, D, and E major.

Strumming Chords
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This lesson covers the left hand and strumming techniques.

More on Chord Progressions
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This lesson covers common chord progressions including I, IV, V and I, ii, V progressions.

ACDC Style Chord Progressions
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In this lesson you will learn some chord progressions in the style of ACDC.

Dominant 7 Chords
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This lesson will introduce you to a Dominant 7 chord and the B7 chord specifically. It will also take you through a Johnny Cash style chord progression.

Shake It Off by Taylor Swift
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This is a super easy 3 chord pop tune using Am, C, and G. Great tune for beginners. There is no real guitar part in the original recording so you are free to be creative.

Knockin on Heaven’s Door by Bob Dylan
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In this lesson we will be learning the song Knockin On Heaven’s Door by Bob Dylan. Very easy tune with a 4 chord progression that repeats for the entire song. None the less a great song!

Wagon Wheel by Darius Rucker and Old Crow Medicine Show
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In this lesson we will study the song “Wagon Wheel” by Darius Rucker and Old Crow Medicine Show

Wish You Were Here by Pink Floyd
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This lesson is a song study of Pink Floyd’s Wish You Were Here

The D minor Chord
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This lesson will cover the D minor open chord and how it can be applied to chord progressions in the key of C.

F Major and B Major Chords
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This lesson will cover the chords of F and B Major and how they relate to different keys.

Country Road by John Denver
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This lesson is a song study of John Denver’s Country Road country classic.

Hey Ho by the Lumineers
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In this lesson we will learn Hey Ho by the Lumineers. Good song for beginners that know open chords.

Connecting Major and Minor Scales
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This lesson covers Major and Relative minor scales and how to connect them. The theory behind it and application are also discussed.

12 Bar Blues Exercise
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In this lesson we will extend on the 12 bar blues riff we already know and work on a different picking technique with our right hand.

The Three Major Chord Families
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This lesson will discuss the three major chord families and introduce some new dominant 7 open chords. E7, A7, and D7 chords are covered

Applying Dominant 7 Chords
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In this lesson you will learn how to apply dominant 7 chords to the 12 bar blues pattern. We will also cover a way to end the 12 bar blues with a single note riff.

Combining Strums with Arpeggios
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In this lesson we will cover ways to incorporate arpeggios and broken chords into your strumming pattern.

House of the Rising Sun
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In this lesson we will learn the classic song House of The Rising Sun. This song incorporates arpeggio picking patterns throughout.

More On Strumming
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In this lesson we will cover more strumming patterns using chords in the key of C. We will also learn a little trick to help you transition from chord to chord more seamlessly.

Major Scale in Thirds
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In this lesson you will learn how to play the major scale in 3rds. This is a great exercise to help with fingering and right hand picking.

G7 and Use of the V Chord
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In this lesson we will cover the G7 open chord and how V chords function in the harmonic structure of a musical piece.

Alternating Bass Notes
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In this lesson we will cover the technique of alternating bass notes within chord progressions. Several examples are given.

B minor Barre Chord
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In this lesson we cover the Bm barre chord and show how you can move the chord up the neck creating many minor chords.

Chord Study in Key of G and C
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In this lesson we will examine the chords in the key of C and G and how they function in harmonic structure and how they relate to the Major scale.

More Barre Chords
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This lesson covers three types of barre chords. Movable major and minor chords are introduced.

Wild Thing by the Troggs
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This classic tune by The Troggs uses a simple 3 chord progression for the majority of the tune. You will need to know Major Barre chord forms. Great to practice if you are just learning barre chords.

Louie Louie by The Kingsmen
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In this lesson we will be learning the classic 3 chord rock n roll tune Louie Louie. This is a great tune to practice your barre chords.

Tips for Guitar Strumming
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Strumming and rhythm are some of the more difficult concepts to teach and learn. In this lesson we will discuss some tips for improving your rhythm and strumming technique. This technique can be applied to all guitar strumming patterns.

Brown Eyed Girl by Van Morrison
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In this lesson we will be learning the classic Brown Eyed Girl. This tune is a good song for beginners requiring only a few simple open chords

Pentatonic Minor Scale
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This lesson will introduce you to the Pentatonic Minor scale, one of the most important scales in popular music.

Beefing Up the Power Chord
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In this lesson we will be learning a different approach to the power chord by adding the 5th interval on the bottom of the chord. This is commonly used in hard rock styles and several examples are given.

Playing 3/4 Time
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In this lesson we will cover playing in 3/4 time and some different strumming patterns.

Diminished Chords
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In this lesson we will cover diminished chords and how they function in harmonic structure. A few applications are presented.

Sus and Add Chords
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In this lesson you will learn about Sus 2, Sus 4, and Add chords.

Intervals Part 2
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In this lesson we will complete our ear training lessons on interval recognition. The intervals of minor 2nd, minor 3rd, minor 6th, and minor 7th are covered.

The Capo
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In this lesson we will learn about capos and basic application.

Reading Lead Sheets
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In this lesson we will be taking a look at how to read a lead sheet. We will use the song Desperado by the Eagles as an example.

Reading Leading Sheets 2
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In this lesson we will learn how to read a different kind of lead sheet. We will use the song Take it Easy as an example

Reading Lead Sheets for Jazz
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In this lesson we will take a look at 2 different types of lead sheets for the Jazz standard All Of Me.

Reading Tab Symbols Part 1
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In this lesson we will cover the symbols used in tab to notate certain articulations such as bends and slides.

Reading Tab Symbols Part 2
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In this lesson we will study more tab symbols, what they mean, and how to play them.

Quick Start Beginner Series

Lesson 1- Guitar Basics and Your First Chord
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In this lesson we will be covering the basics such as parts of the guitar, tuning, how to hold it, fret notes, and strum.  We will also be learning our first chord! The G major chord

Lesson 2 – The Em Chord
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In this lesson we will be learning our second chord, the Em chord.

Lesson 3 – The C Major Chord
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In this lesson we will be learning how to play the C major chord. C major is a little more difficult to play than the previous chord. Practice the chord and switching among the 3 chords that we have learned.

Lesson 4 – Simple Man by Lynard Skynard – Applying Chords
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In this lesson we are going to learn a new chord, the Am chord.  We are also going to be applying some of the chords we have learned to an easy to play song by Lynard Skynard called Simple Man. It uses the C, G, and Am chord

Lesson 5 – Shake It Off by Taylor Swift – Easy Song
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In this lesson we will be learning the chord progression to Shake It Off by Taylor Swift.  Another easy to play 3 chord song using Am, C, and G chords.  We also be learning a new strumming pattern.

Lesson 6 – Wagon Wheel and the D Major Chord
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In this lesson we will be learning the D major chord. And then applying that chord along with G, C, and Em to a popular song called Wagon Wheel by Darius Rucker/ Old Crow Medicine Show.

Lesson 7 – Reading Lead Sheets
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In this lesson we will be taking a look at how to read a lead sheet. We will use the song Desperado by the Eagles as an example.

Lesson 8 – Reading Leading Sheets 2
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In this lesson we will learn how to read a different kind of lead sheet. We will use the song Take it Easy as an example

Lesson 9 – Knockin on Heaven’s Door by Bob Dylan
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In this lesson we will be learning the song Knockin On Heaven’s Door by Bob Dylan. Very easy tune with a 4 chord progression that repeats for the entire song. None the less a great song!

Lesson 10 – The A Major Chord
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In this lesson we are going to learn how to play an A Major chord.  We will learn 2 different ways to play this chord.

Lesson 11 – Margaritaville by Jimmy Buffett
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In this lesson we are going to apply our A major chord to a song.  Margaritaville uses just 3 chords, A, D, and G major

Lesson 12 – Power Chords
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Quick Beginner Lesson – Power chords are simple 2 note chords used in most genres of music.  Very easy to play and opens the door to playing a ton of songs.

Lesson 13 – Rolling In The Deep
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Great example of a song, on acoustic, that uses power chords.

Lesson 14 – TNT by AC/DC
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Another tune, on electric, that uses power chords.

Lesson 15: The B minor Barre Chord
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In this lesson we will learn our first barre type chord.  Barre chords can be difficult for beginners but they are a must if you wish to play a variety of songs.  We will cover the full B minor barre chord as well as a few “cheats” to get you going.  We will also cover some exercises to help build the strength to play the barre chords

Lesson 16: The F Major Chord
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The F Major Chord is one of the tougher chords for beginners.  In this lesson we will examine and learn 3 ways to play an F chord.  The fingerings for this chord are movable so the shape can be used for other major chords as well.  The F chord is used in many songs so it is important to practice and learn this chord.

Lesson 17: B Major Barre Chord
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In this lesson we will be studying a B major barre chord. This is a movable chord shape that can be used to play any major chord.  I will show you several ways to play it while you are learning the full barre chord.  It is inevitable that you will run across a B major chord when you are learning songs.

Lesson 18: F# Minor Barre Chord
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In this lesson we are going to study the last of the main types of barre chords for beginners.  The minor barre chord with the root on the E string.  Once this chord form is learned it can be moved to create any minor chord you need as long as the root note is on the low E string

Genre Lessons

Surf Rock Basics
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In this lesson we will be covering some of the basic techniques, concepts, and tones used in surf rock style guitar. Concepts covered are 16th note picking, tremolo picking, chords, riffs, and effects.

Spring Reverb Options from Sweetwater

OminReverb

BoingReverb

VentrisReverb

FlintTremRev

If you are first time Sweetwater customer and do not yet have a dedicated sales engineer please contact Billy Germano and mention Bryan from Center Stage Guitar Academy for 10% off

Billy Germano I Sales Engineer
• Sweetwater Sound Inc.
• Phone/Text: (260) 247-8533
• Technical Support: (800) 222-4700 x6400
billy_germano@sweetwater.com

Pipeline by The Chantays
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In this lesson we will be learning a great first surf rock tune called Pipeline by the Chantays.  The song incorporates much of what we covered in the Surf Rock Basics lesson.  It is in the key of Em and contains a melody line and some palm muted 16th note picking that will be sure to challenge your strum hand!

Spring Reverb Options from Sweetwater

OminReverb

BoingReverb

VentrisReverb

FlintTremRev

If you are first time Sweetwater customer and do not yet have a dedicated sales engineer please contact Billy Germano and mention Bryan from Center Stage Guitar Academy for 10% off

Billy Germano I Sales Engineer
• Sweetwater Sound Inc.
• Phone/Text: (260) 247-8533
• Technical Support: (800) 222-4700 x6400
billy_germano@sweetwater.com

Intro to Reggae
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In this lesson we will discuss the basic fundamentals of playing Reggae music. It is a rhythmic music that focuses on beats 2 and 4 as opposed to 1 and 3.

Reggae Jam
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In this lesson we are going to jam over a simple reggae tune by Bob Marley called Stir It Up.

Intro to Funk
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In this lesson we are going to discuss some concepts of Funk music. Funk is a genre of music created in the late 60’s that combines elements of jazz, soul, and R&B. Funk music often de-emphasizes melody and harmony and focuses on creating a strong rhythmic groove.

Funk Jam
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In this lesson we are going to learn a specific Funk Jam that you can play along to one of our jam tracks.

Funk Chord Movement
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Add some flavor to your funk chords by learning different voicings for a dom 7 chord and adding the sus 2 and 4.  This can take the common jam over one chord that often takes place in a funk jam to a new level.

Segovia Scales C Major
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In this lesson we will learn a Segovia style scale. The scale is a 2 octave C Major scale. The emphasis of this lesson is on shifting positions and practicing the rest stroke in an alternating fashion with the index and second finger.

Segovia Scales G Major
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In this lesson we will study a 3 Octave G Major Scale Segovia style. The focus is on shifting positions and free stroke alternating technique. Andres Segovia was a virtuoso classical guitar player from Spain.  He proposed that scale practice would correct faulty hand position, improve finger strength, and prepare the joints for more speedy studies.

C and G Major Workout
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In this lesson we will learning an exercise focusing on a 2 pattern with the C Major Scale

C and G Major Workout 2
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In this lesson we will expand on the C and G Major scale workout.

Malaguena Guitar Tab and Lesson
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In this lesson we will learn a basic rendition of the Malaguena. Malaguena is a very popular Spanish classic.  There are many versions out there but it very pliable in its arrangement.  As you will see in the Malaguena guitar tab and lesson it uses a repetitive picking pattern between the thumb and 1st or 2nd finger.

Arpeggio Picking Patterns
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In this lesson we will cover several common arpeggio picking patterns. These are great exercises and should practiced regularly.

Lagrima Part 1
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In this lesson we will learn the first part of the classical guitar tune, Lagrima. It is one of the best known original tunes buy Spanish guitarist Francisco Terrega. The composition consists of 16 bars and follows an ABA pattern. The A section is written in E Major and the B section is written in E minor. Each section consists of 8 bars. In this lesson we will study the E Major section and also provide the Lagrima tab.

Lagrima Part 2
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In this lesson we will focus on completing Lagrima with the 2nd Part. This part moves to the parallel minor key of E minor.

Romanza
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Romanza (Romance) is a standard classical tune in the key of E minor and E major. The piece has 2 parts, the first being in Em and then shifts to an E major section. There is no particular arrangement for this song. It is open to interpretation and being creative on your own. It has been performed many different ways by arranging the 2 parts. This is a complex classical style tune and I highly recommend studying Volume 12 on finger picking before attempting this piece.

Fur Elise by Beethoven
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Great piece to learn for beginners to intermediate classical players. Basically consists of 2 sections that repeat.

The Roll Technique
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In this lesson we will learn the Roll technique commonly used by classical players.

Greensleeves
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This is a great classical style piece to learn as a beginner in the fingerstyle / classical genre.

Canon In D by Johann Pachelbel
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In this lesson we will be studying Canon in D.  The piece is built around a D, A, Bm, F#m, G chord progression that builds in complexity throughout.  We are going to learn it in parts.  In part 1 we will focus on the first 3 passes.  Please remember to tune your low E string down to a D.

Canon In D Part 2 by Johann Pachelbel
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In this lesson we will be studying Canon in D Part 2. The focus is on the next 3 passes of the chord progression. These are significantly more complicated than the first 3 passes, building on the theme and melody.

Canon In D Part 3
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In this lesson we will be studying Canon in D part 3. The piece is built around a D, A, Bm, F#m, G chord progression that builds in complexity throughout. We are going to learn it in parts. In part 3 we will focus on 2 passes that contain a lot of single note melody runs.. Please remember to tune your low E string down to a D.

Canon In D (Part 4)
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In this lesson we will cover the last few passes and outro.

Intro to Soul and R&B Guitar
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In this lesson we will discuss the basic principles behind Soul and R&B style guitar. Specifically we will cover chord shapes used in this genre of music

Soul and RnB Rhythm
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In this lesson we will study the rhythmic elements of R&B and Soul

Soul and RnB Articulations
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In this lesson we will discuss using some articulations such as slides and fills to spice up your playing.

It’s All Right by The Impressions
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In this lesson we are going to take a look at the guitar style used by the soul, r&b, and Motown players of the 60’s.  Specifically the use of high register chord voicings.  This tune is a great example of this technique.

Soul and R&B Improvisation
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In this lesson we will study some improvisation techniques to use over a standard Soul and R&B chord progression. It is recommended that you are familiar with pentatonic major.

In the Midnight Hour by Wilson Pickett
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In this lesson we will be studying the R&B style guitar work of Wilson Pickett’s In the Midnight Hour.  The song embodies the primary essence of old R&B guitar playing by accenting the upper register of the chords.  A great song to learn if you are interested in this style of playing.  Must be able to play barre chords.

Intro to Jazz and 7th Chords
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In this introductory lesson on jazz Bryan discusses the defining elements of jazz, brief history, and review of major, minor, and diminished 7 chords. As a prerequisite you should have completed the beginner course of Volumes 1-5.

Harmonizing The Major Scale With 7 Chords
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In this lesson we will expand on our knowledge of 7th chords and see how they fit together by harmonizing the Major Scale.

Common Jazz Rhythms
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In this lesson we will study 2 common jazz rhythms, the Freddie Green rhythm and the Charleston.

The ii – V – I Progression
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In this lesson we will study the most common jazz chord progression, the ii – V – I

Arpeggios for II-V-I
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In this lesson we will study 3 arpeggios you can use to solo over a II V I chord progression. The arpeggios are all located in the same position using the G Major scale. We will cover an Am7, D7, and Gmaj7 arpeggio.

ii-V-I Riffs
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In this lesson we will study a couple basic ii-V-I licks based out of our recently learned arpeggios.

Autumn Leaves
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In this lesson we will learn our first Jazz standard and apply some of the 7th chords we have learned so far in the tune Autumn Leaves. This lesson covers just the harmonic chord progression.

Autumn Leaves Melody
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In this lesson we will study the melody of Autumn Leaves. Learning the melody to jazz standards is an important part of learning jazz.

Autumn Leaves Harmonic Analysis
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In this lesson we will be diving into a harmonic analysis of the jazz standard Autumn Leaves. Understanding the harmonic structure of the tune is an important element in learning the jazz language.  It will help develop our ear, recognize common chord progressions, and help with improvisation over the chords.

Autumn Leaves – Chord Tone Mapping
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In this lesson we will be taking a dive into the chord tone mapping of Autumn Leaves. Chord tone mapping is the process of mapping out the chord tones for each chord of the progression to give us a better handle on improvising over the tune. For example we will map out the root, 3rd, 5th, and 7th of each chord. The targeting of these notes will help us play better, more melodic solos. A great exercise for any tune in any genre.

Introduction to Flamenco
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In this lesson we will be discussing the basics of the Flamenco style and some common terminology used. We will also discuss the difference between Flamenco and Classical guitars.

Picado Rest Stroke
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In this lesson we will be covering the rest stroke commonly used in single note playing within Flamenco. It is also referred to as Picado. We will be applying the rest stroke technique to two Flamenco scales called Phrygian and Phrygian Dominant.

Basic Rasqueado Flamenco Strumming
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In this lesson we will start learning the Flamenco strumming technique called the Rasqueado. We will start with a very basic one finger rasqueado strum. The rasqueado strumming technique allows for the complex, subdivided rhythms that we find in Flamenco music.  The strum involves flicking your finger over the strings.  Using all for fingers of your strum hand you can create and play very interesting rhythm patterns

Basic Arpeggios
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In this lesson we will be learning and practicing some basic arpeggio patterns.

The Farruca Compas
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In this lesson we will learn our first compas called the Farruca. The Farruca is comprised of just 3 chords, Am, E, and Dm, in 4/4 time signature. We will be starting to apply some of the basic flamenco techniques learned thus far to the Farruca compas.

Two Finger Rasgueado
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In this lesson we will expand upon the rasqueado strum technique and add the second finger.

The Soleares
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The Soleares is another common flamenco form. It is in 3/4 time

The Palm Mute
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In this lesson you will learn the technique of palm muting and how to apply it to your playing.

Drop D Tuning
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This lesson scratches the surface of playing in Drop D tuning.

The Jimi Hendrix Chord
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This lesson covers the Dom 9 chord and the Dom 7#9 chord made famous in rock music by Jimi Hendrix.

Embellishing the Major chord Hendrix style
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In this lesson we will learn some cool riffs to embellish the Major chord. This is in the style of Jimi Hendrix, SRV, and many bluesy players

Sweep Picking 101
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This is an introduction to sweep picking technique. The lesson covers the basic concept and uses a common A minor and A major arpeggio fingering as an example to practice.

Sweep Picking C Shape Arpeggio
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In this lesson we will learn another sweep friendly arpeggio pattern based on the C CAGED shape chord. We will learn both the major and minor shape.

Sweep Picking Exercise
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In this lesson we are going to combine the A and C chord shape arpeggio forms into one exercise. This will help you improve your ability to move from one position to another as you sweep pick through a series of arpeggios.

2 and 3 String Sweep Picking
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In this lesson we will learn some 2 and 3 string sweep picking patterns in the style of Randy Rhoads and other rock guitarists.

Chord Tensions
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In this lesson we will discover chord tensions using open strings and common chord shapes.

Basic Finger Tapping
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This lesson is an intro to finger tapping technique. Finger tapping is a technique where you use your pick hand to hammer on and pull off notes on the neck.  The technique has been made popular by the likes of Eddie Van Halen, Steve Vai, Joe Satriani, and many more.

Volume Swells
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In this lessons we will learn a technique called volume swell.

Pentatonic Style of Eric Johnson
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In this lesson we will study some pentatonic licks in the style of Eric Johnson.

Eric Johnson Style Pedal Tone
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In this lesson we will learn a pedal tone lick from Eric Johnson’s Cliffs Of Dover.

Extending the Major Chord
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In this lesson we will learn to extend the major chord with the 9th interval. This Major 9 sound has been used by many from Prince to Pearl Jam,

Rockabilly Style 1
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In this lesson we will be learning a rockabilly style chord progression using the chords E, A7, and B7.  The progression is a typical I-IV-V, but its what you do within those chords that make it sound like rockabilly.

Scotty Moore Style (Part 1)
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Scotty Moore, Elvis’rockabilly electric player, had a distinct style that incorporated a travis picking technique. In this lesson we will study his style using the from the song Mystery Train.

Scotty Moore Style (Part 2)
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In this lesson we will be studying the 2nd part to the classic Mystery Train riff. The riff involves using a hybrid picking technique.

Folk Style Strumming
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In this lesson we will discuss and demonstrate two specific folk style strumming patterns. The “Folk Strum” and the “Boom Chicka” strumming patterns are two of the most common strumming patterns in folk and other related genres of music.

Moving the Dom 7 Chord
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In this lesson we will cover several ways to play Dominant 7 chords as barre chords and movable chords

The Pinky Matters
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In this lesson you will learn ways to embellish the 12 bar blues and powers chords using your pinky finger. Several examples are demonstrated

The Blues Scale
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In this lesson we will learn and study the Blues scale.

Blues Scale Licks
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In this lesson we will study ways to apply the Blues scale in your lead playing.

Stylizing your blues shuffle
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In this lesson we will learn some ways to stylize your blues shuffle.

Blues Style Chord Riff
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In this lesson we will stylize our chord with a blues favored riff.

Chuck Berry Style Blues
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In this lesson we will study blues improv in the style of Chuck Berry combining Mixolydian and Blues scale

B.B. King Style Mixolydian
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In this lesson we will study Mixolydian blues licks in the style of B.B. King.

Quick Change 12 Bar Blues
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In this lesson we will learn the Quick Change 12 Bar Blues Progression. In this progression we switch to the IV chord after the first bar.

Dickey Betts Style Blues
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In this lesson we study some blues lick in the style of Dickey Betts from the Allman Brothers Band.

Stevie Ray Vaughan style Blues
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In this lesson we will study some blues licks in the style of Stevie Ray Vaughan.

Embellishing the Blues Changes
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In this lesson we will study a couple of common ways to embellish the 12 bar blues changes.

Blues Changes
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In this lesson we will study the basic 3 chord 12 bar blues changes using the I, IV, and V chords of a key.

Use of Augmented and Diminished Chords in Blues
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In this lesson we study some ways to use Augmented and Diminished chords in Blues progressions.

Chicken Pickin SRV style
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In this lesson we will study chicken pickin licks in the style of Stevie Ray Vaughan.

Blues Improvisation
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This lesson is a basic introduction to improvising over a 12 bar blues pattern. Use of pentatonic major and minor are discussed.

Blues Improvisation 2
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in this we will continue with concepts on soloing over blues changes.

Dom 7 Arpeggios For Blues
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In this lesson we will go over 2 useful Dominant 7 arpeggios that you can incorporate into your blues improvisation. Applying arpeggios and targeting notes of the chords in the progression will make your sound more melodic and sophisticated.

Dom 7 Arpeggios for Ragtime
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In this lesson we will apply 2 Dominant 7 arpeggios to Ragtime chord changes.

Blues Intros
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In this lesson we will examine some common blues intros using a new voicing for a dominant 7 chord. You can use these intros to spice up your 12 bar blues. On many classic blues recording there is a tasty intro that kicks the song off.  They can be based on the root chord of the song or even start on the V chord.  Sometimes blues intros take the place of the first 4 bars of the 12 bar form as you will see in our first example. There are many options and ways to showcase your own personal style in a blues intro.

Blues Turnarounds
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In this lesson we will study 4 examples of blues turnarounds you can use for your blues.

Alternative Dominant 9 Blues Chord
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In this lesson we will take a look at a different voicing for a dominant 9 chord that you can use to jazz up your blues.

Walking Bass with Upstrokes
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This is a technique commonly used in Texas style blues ala Stevie Ray Vaughan. It is in the key of E and involves playing a walking bass line while adding rhythm with an upstroke of the upper notes of an E chord.

Solo Acoustic Blues
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In this lesson we will study a 12 bar blues acoustic arrangement that applies rhythm and lead techniques.  This piece is in the style of Delta blues solo acoustic.  The great originators of Delta blues used a call and answer technique to establish both rhythm and lead parts with just one musician.

Blues Shuffle Revisited
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Apply the blues shuffle technique to full chords to give your blues new life. Previously, we have studied the shuffle from a power chord position. Now we can extend that idea into full open chords and barre chords filling out your sound. Lesson applies to both acoustic and electric players

West Coast Blues
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West Coast Blues is a style of the blues combining swing and jazz elements with Texas blues.  In this lesson we will be studying some common west coast blues style chord progressions.

Phrasing
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In this lesson we discuss the concept of phrasing as applied to soloing over chord changes. We will study some possibilities and things to focus on to develop this skill.

Double Stop Bends in Style of Stevie Ray Vaughan
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In this lesson we will study some unique bends in the style of SRV. This technique can be great for adding to your vocab of licks

Joe Bonamassa Style Lick
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In this lesson we will study a specific lick in the style of Joe Bonamassa using the 3rd position of pentatonic minor.

Joe Bonamassa Style Descending Pentatonic Licks
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In this lesson we will study a descending pentatonic run in the style of Blues master Joe Bonamassa.

Joe Bonamassa Style Lick 2
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In this lesson we will study a specific lick in the style of Joe Bonamassa using his signature descending lick plus some

Common Blues Endings
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In this lesson we will study 5 specific licks that serve as a way to end a 12 bar blues chord progression.  We will cover a few in key of E, A, and G. All the licks are easily played in any key.

Fingerstyle Acoustic Ragtime Blues
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In this lesson we will be studying a fingerstyle ragtime blues. Ragtime Blues is made up of a different chord progression than the typical I-IV-V 12 Bar blues. It follows a I-III- VI-II-V-I with a bVI turnaround.  One of the key defining elements of acoustic blues is the use of the alternating bassline with the thumb.  While this style can be tricky to get down, it is well worth the effort.

Beginner Minor Blues Solo
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In this lesson we will study a beginner level minor blues solo.  This lesson is specifically designed for those just beginning their exploration of blues improvisation and soloing with the pentatonic minor scale.  We will go through one pass of a minor blues chord progression note by note.  You are encouraged to expand upon the specific solo taught and come up with your own style.

Beginner Major Blues Solo
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In this lesson we will study a beginner level major blues solo.  This lesson is specifically designed for those just beginning their exploration of blues improvisation and soloing with the pentatonic major scale.  We will go through one pass of a major blues chord progression note by note.  You are encouraged to expand upon the specific solo taught and come up with your own style.

Boogie Woogie Blues
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In this lesson we will study some Boogie Woogie Blues riffs in the key of E. The riffs try to emulate the style of the boogie woogie piano players with the emphasis on the bassline. Great for use in coming up with your own style of boogie woogie blues.

Review of Blues Chords
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In this lesson we will be reviewing different options that are available to you when playing a 12 bar blues.  We will be covering all the different bluesy chord options we have covered thus far.

Worry You Off My Mind by Big Bill Broonzy
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Worrying You Off My Mind is a solo acoustic blues tune by Big Bill Broonzy.  It is played fingerstyle as most of the old blues were and uses an Eb tuning.  It does not follow a typical 12 Bar Blues pattern but rather an 8 bar progression with the occasional extra bar added in. While solo acoustic blues is not easy, this is a relatively simple arrangement for the genre.

B.B. King Style Blues Solo
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In this lesson we will be taking a close look at a B.B. King youtube video where he walks us through his approach to soloing over the 12 bar blues changes.  We will analyse and learn exactly what he does note for note.  Great lessons for blues improvisation and soloing!

Watch B.B. solo (starts at about 0:48)

Country Style Chord Riff
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In this lesson we will stylize our chord with a country flavored riff.

Stylizing Chords Rockabilly Style
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In this lesson we will learn how to stylize a simple I-IV-V pattern with a Rockabilly flavor

Classic Country Strumming
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In this lesson we will explore some classic country strumming patterns.

Make Your Chords Sound Country
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In this lesson we will learn some ways to make your chords sound more country.

Using Pentatonic Major in Country
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In this lesson we will learn how to use the Pentatonic Major scale to make our leads sound more country.

The Country Scale
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In this lesson we will learn the Country Scale and how to apply it to our improvisation and lead playing.

The Memphis Scale
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In this lesson you will be introduced to the memphis scale and learn how it can be applied.

Country Riffing
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In this lesson we will learn some country style riffs using the b3rd and b7th.

Country Licks
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In this lesson we will learn some country licks you can use in your lead playing.

More Country Licks
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In this lesson we will learn some more country licks you can use in your lead playing, combining the country scale and pentatonic major.

Intro to Travis Picking
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In this lesson we will learn the basic principles behind Travis picking. Travis picking is a finger picking style named after one of the innovators, Merle Travis. Travis picking is used in Country, Blues, Ragtime, and Rock music.

Travis Picking Continued
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In this lesson we will study more on Travis Picking.

Intro to Chicken Pickin’
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In this lesson we will start our teaching of Country style hybrid picking or chicken pickin. This is a style often used by the likes of Brad Paisley and Brent Mason among many others.

Chicken Pickin Chords
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In this lesson we will use our chicken picking technique within some basic open chords.

Chicken Pickin Riff in A
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In this lesson we will learn a cool chicken pickin style riff in the key of A

Chicken Pickin Licks in A
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In this lesson we will cover some chicken pickin licks licks in the key of A. Practice these licks in different keys.

Classic Country Electric Style
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Electric guitar had a specific function in the classic country era of Hank Williams and Patsy Cline. In this lesson we will study this function with the tune Hey Good Lookin as the example. The theory is easily applied to other country chord progressions to get that classic country sound.

Common Bluegrass Chords
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In this lesson we will be covering the common open chords used in bluegrass music.

Essential Bluegrass Rhythm
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One of the most common rhythms in bluegrass music is often referred to as the bass chop. This is essential to the feel of bluegrass.

Alternating Bass Line
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We are going to focus on the alternating bass line concept used in bluegrass. This lesson will use the key of G to demonstrate the use of the root and 5th in the bassline.

Alternating Bass Line in C
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In this lesson we will learn an alternating bassline in the key of C

Essential Bluegrass Rhythm Part 2
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In this lesson we will expand on the first Bluegrass rhythm by adding 16th note chops

Walking Bass
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In this lesson we will discuss and study walking bass lines within the bluegrass rhythm and chord progression we have learned thus far.

The G Run
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The G Run is a common riff used in bluegrass and created by Lester Flatt that signifies the end of a chord progression. It is often used as the basis to improvisation as well. It is a very recognizable riff in the bluegrass realm.

Open String Scales
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In this lesson we will learn the G, C, and D Major scales in the first position using some open strings. This is important in bluegrass since we play in first position frequently while chording. Knowing these scale fingerings will come in handy when learning melodies and improvising.

Easy Bluegrass Licks
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In this lesson we will learn some easy transition type licks in the key of G that you can use within your strum patterns.

Tony Rice Inspired Bluegrass Lick
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In this lesson we will learn a Tony Rice inspired Bluegrass lick in key of G.

Descending Bluegrass Lick
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In this lesson we will study an easy descending bluegrass lick that you can add to your bluegrass vocabulary.  The lick will be studied in G, C, and D.

Tennessee Stud by Doc Watson
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In this lesson we will study Tennessee Stud as performed by Doc Watson. The tune has a great bluegrass type intro that repeats throughout the song. It applies many of the basic bluegrass principles we have discussed in the Bluegrass Genre section. The chords used are not difficult, however the timing and arrangement are a little tricky. Best to learn a section at a time.

Man of Constant Sorrow
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Learn this bluesy bluegrass tune from the movie Brother Where Art Thou. The tune requires Drop D tuning and a capo on the 3rd fret. Basic chords include D, G, and A. The song applies a bluesy line that recurs throughout the tune.

Basic Banjo Rolls
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In this lesson we will learn about the concept of banjo rolls.  This is a technique used by banjo players where we play a “rolling” eighth note arpeggio.

Banjo Roll Licks in G
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In this lesson we will be learning some specific banjo roll licks in the key of G.  We will cover what to play over a G, C, and D chord.

Country Scale For Bluegrass in 1st Position
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In this lesson we will be learning the country scale for each of the 3 chords G, C, and D in the first position.  The country scale is a foundation for bluegrass licks and improvisation.  Learning the scale in one position for all 3 chords is crucial to the bluegrass style

Bluegrass Licks in G
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In this lesson we will learn some specific Bluegrass style licks you can use to play over the G chord.

Bluegrass Licks in C
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In this lesson we will learn some specific Bluegrass style licks you can use to play over the C chord.

Bluegrass Licks In D
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In this lesson we will be studying a variety of licks you can use over a D major chord in a Bluegrass jam.

Bluegrass Solo in G (Exercise 1)
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In this lesson we are going to combine all that we have learned in the lessons on Bluegrass Licks in G, C, and D and arrange a complete Bluegrass solo.

Bluegrass Solo in G (Exercise 2)
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In this lesson we will be taking the solo we learned in Exercise 1 and tweaking it just a little bit.  The idea here is to stay in G over the C and D chords just a little to create some tension.

Wildwood Flower
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In this lesson we will be learning the Carter family classic Wildwood Flower. This is a great example of a traditional Bluegrass style tune.  The melody is played within the chords much like a chord melody or solo.

Bluegrass Style Lick
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In this lesson we will be studying a flashy bluegrass lick in G that spans several positions on the fretboard.  The lick combines many elements of Bluegrass improvisation including pentatonic major, minor, and some mixolydian.  It applies several articulations as well. Slides, hammer ons, pull offs are all incorporated into the lick.

Will The Circle Be Unbroken (Chord Melody)
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In this lesson we will be learning a chord melody version of Will The Circle Be Unbroken.  Chord melody style involves playing the chords and melody at the same time.  This can be tricky and challenging but very rewarding when accomplished.  This particular song is a great one to try this style as it is not too difficult and involves a repeating melody pattern. Chords used are just G, C, and D open chords.  This version lends itself to a bluegrassy sound.

Lick Of The Week

Call and Answer Blues Riff 2
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In this lesson we will learn a bluesy rock riff you can use to practice call and answer improvisation.  Call and answer is the practice of playing a riff and then answering with an improvised lead riff. Great way to practice improvisation.

John Mayer – Lick Of The Week
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In this lesson we will be studying a short excerpt from a John Mayer Sugaree solo with Dead And Company.  The focus is on analyzing the notes he chooses to play relative to the chord progression.  This is an important improvisational concept called Chord Tone Targeting

Lick starts at 4:36 – Video

Billy Strings Style Bluegrass Lick
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Billy Strings is one of the best flatpickers in the world! In this lesson we will be deep diving into a Billy Strings style lick.  The lick is a great example of combining the Blues Scale with the Country Scale.

Snow by Red Hot Chili Peppers
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In this lesson we will be studying the intro to Snow by Red Hot Chili Peppers as a Lick of the Week lesson. This piece of music is a great exercise in cross string picking and pick hand work in general. Not to mention it sounds cool and is really fun to play!

Money For Nothing by Dire Straits (Main Riff)
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In this lick of the week lesson we will be learning the main riff to Mark Knopfler’s Money For Nothing. The lesson is taught using a fingerstyle method just like Knopfler played it. Classic rock riff using power chords and inversions of power chords.

Call And Answer Blues Riff
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In this lesson we will be discussing the concept of jamming by yourself with a call and answer blues riff.  The riff is based around an E pentatonic Hendrix style riff.

SRV Style Lick Of The Week – Texas Flood
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In this lesson we will be studying the intro to Texas Flood.  The intro has a lot of great blues licks that would add to your improvisational vocabulary.  New ways to use chords, bends, and more

Billy Gibbons Style Lick of the Week
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In this lesson we will be covering a Billy Gibbons style lick taken loosely from the ZZ Top song La Grange. The lick is in C and uses the c Pentatonic scale.

Steve Cropper Style Lick of The Week
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In this lesson we will be studying some Steve Cropper licks from the song Soul Man by Sam and Dave. We will be covering 2 specific licks that are common in R&B and Soul tunes. The use of 5th and 3rd intervals and using different chord voicings to vamp on the a single chord progression.

Kenny Wayne Shepherd Style Lick of the Week
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In this lesson we will focus on a lick from the outro solo of Blue On Black. The lick is in the key of D. He uses D pentatonic minor blues scale. Concepts covered are playing just one or two notes with added articulation and repeating licks to make an emotional impact.

Lynyrd Skynyrd Lick of the Week
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In this lesson we will study a Lynyrd Skynyrd style boogie woogie blues riff.  The riff is taken from the song I Know A Little and revolves around an A power chord.  The riff can be applied to a standard 12 bar blues progression and moved to D and E chords as well.

Vince Gill Style Lick
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In this lesson we will be learning a Vince Gill style country lick in the key of C. The lick starts with a hybrid picked arpeggio outlining the notes of a C9 chord. The lick ends with a tasty descending run using primarily pentatonic major with a flat 3rd and some chromatics to spice it up.

Country Style Chordal Lick
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In this Lick of the Week lesson we are going to study a country style hybrid picking lick that aims to highlight the chords of the progression underneath. The lick involves playing double stops with pull offs that make the chord a dominant 7 giving it a great country sound. The chord shapes are movable making it easy to play in any key and make your own licks.

Country Blues Style Lick
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In this lesson we will be studying a common country blues style lick that involves holding a bend on the B string while playing other notes on the high E string. The lick is played out of the 3rd pentatonic major shape, also known as the B.B. King box. We will demonstrate with a jam track that is also provided in the lesson.

Jam Track for this lesson

Jerry Garcia Style “Ladders” Lesson
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In this lesson we will be studying a specific aspect of Garcia’s guitar playing. Jerry frequently plays runs that seem to randomly climb up and down modes or scales. The request for the this lesson referred to it as “ladders” because of the up and down direction of the scale runs. We will be covering this concept and exploring some ways you can approach this sound using your knowledge of scales and modes.

Clapton Style Acoustic Blues Lick
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In this lesson we will be studying an acoustic blues lick from the song Before You Accuse Me. The lick is played over the first 4 bars of a quick change 12 bar blues in the key of E. The lick uses E pentatonic minor.

David Gilmour Style Lick
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In this lesson we will be studying a lick from the tune Have A Cigar.  We will be covering the lick itself, but also the chord progression to see how Gilmour’s lead relates to the chords underneath.  A big part of Gilmour’s style is playing melodic lines following the chord progression.

Clapton Style Blues Turnaround
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In this lesson we are going to take a close look at an Eric Clapton style blues turnaround.  The excerpt is taken from the Unplugged record and the song Before You Accuse Me.  The lick is played in the key of E and uses primarily E pentatonic minor with a major 3rd added at the end.

Jazzy Major Blues – Lick Of The Week
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In this lick of the week lesson we will study a jazzy sounding major blues lick using a variety of slurs and double stops. The example is in A but can be easily transposed to any key.

Stevie Ray Vaughan Style Lick in E Pentatonic Blues
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This lick, in the style of SRV, uses an open E pentatonic minor / major blues scale. Great lick to add to your blues vocabulary.

BB King Style Major Blues Lick
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In this lesson we will study a common BB King style blues lick using notes from the pentatonic major scale. Great intro lick and can be used to lead back to the I chord in a 12 bar blues pattern.

Warren Haynes (Allman Brothers) Style Lick in Am
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In this lick of the week lesson we will be studying a Warren Haynes inspired lick using the A pentatonic minor / blues scale. The lick comes from a live version of Whipping Post and can be applied to any chord changes in Am.

Joe Bonamassa Dominant 9 Chords – Lick Of The Week
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Lick of the week – Joe Bonamassa style dom 7 or 9 chords involve an inversion playing just the 5th and 3rd intervals of the chord, creating a heavier sound.

Chuck Berry Style Blues Lick
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In this edition of Lick of the Week we will study a Chuck Berry style blues lick.

Jazz Blues Chords
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In this lesson we will be studying the use of Jazz chords in a blues context. Specifically we will be studying a jazzy way to transition from the I chord to the IV chord in a 12 bar blues.

Acoustic Blues Chord Movement for E7 and A7
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In this lesson we are going to study some ways to color the E7 and A7 chords for an acoustic blues progression.  It involves moving the up the neck using different fingerings to create extended E and A chords.

Dominant 7 and 9 Chord Tricks – Lick Of The Week
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Learn some cool licks and tricks you can do within a Dominant 7 or 9 chord.

Angus Young Style Solo Lick
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We will be studying a lick in A pentatonic minor in the style of Angus Young from AC/DC.

Brad Paisley Style Country Lick
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In this lesson we will study a bluesy country riff with a little Brad Paisley twist at the end.

Eric Clapton Style Lick #2
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In this lesson we will cover another Clapton style blues lick in the key of A.  The excerpt is indicative of Clapton’s use of quick hammer ons and pull offs. The lick serves well as a turn around over bars 11 and 12 of a 12 bar blues.

Eric Clapton Style Blues Lick #1
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In this lesson we will cover a Clapton style blues lick in the key of A.  The excerpt is from the first solo of  a live version of Crossroads. The lick combines several positions of the pentatonic scale and showcases his use of vibrato and quick hammer on and pull off techniques.

Youtube version of Crossroads – Eric Clapton Crossroads video

Albert Lee Style Country Lick
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In this lick of the week lesson we will study an Albert Lee style country lick. This lick uses bends and holds to outline the chords underneath, a common country technique. We also have a nice descending lick using 6th intervals and pull offs to the open E string giving it a pedal tone type sound.

Major Minor Blues Lick
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In this lesson we will be studying a blues lick that combines major and minor pentatonic notes.  This is a great way to spice up your soloing and add a little sophistication. The lick works best over the I and IV chords in a 12 bar blues. Practice with the jam track

Stevie Ray Vaughan Style Blues Lick
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In this lesson we will take a close look at an excerpt from SRV’s solo in the song Tightrope.  The lick embodies several of his techniques and serves as a great study to grasp a bit of his style. The lick is in Bb Pentatonic minor. It incorporates bends, pull offs, hammer ons, and raking.

Jerry Garcia Style Lick of the Week
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In this lesson we will be studying some specific Garcia licks from a live version of Franklins Tower.  We will start by reviewing the theory behind the chord changes of Franklins Tower so we have a better idea of what tools we can use to improvise over these chord changes.

Jimmy Page Style Ascending Pentatonic Lick
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In this lesson we will be studying the ascending pentatonic minor lick in the style of Jimmy Page.  The lick comes from the song Good Times Bad Times and incorporates a fast ascending triplet run.  This is common in Page’s style throughout his career especially the early records.

Jimi Hendrix style pentatonic minor lick
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In this lesson we will be studying a lick from Hey Joe.  The lick uses many of the articulations common in Hendrix’s style, including bends, unison bends, double stops, hammer ons and pull offs.  While we wiil be focusing primarily on this specific lick, I will also cover the chord progression to Hey Joe.

Funky Blues Groove
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In this lesson we are going to study a funky blues groove using a 3 note dominant 9 chord shape.

Bluegrass Style Lick of The Week
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In this lesson we will be studying a flashy bluegrass lick in G that spans several positions on the fretboard.  The lick combines many elements of Bluegrass improvisation including pentatonic major, minor, and some mixolydian.  It applies several articulations as well. Slides, hammer ons, pull offs are all incorporated into the lick.

Skill Lessons

Love Me Tender
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In this lesson we will be sight reading the melody to Love Me Tender. The tune uses notes we have learned thus far from the E, B, and G strings.

Red River Valley
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In this lesson we will sight read the melody to Red River Valley and learn two new rudiments of music. The tune uses ties and dotted notes. We will discuss these concepts in the lesson

Rudiments of Music
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In this lesson we will start our study of sight reading.  Sight reading is the skill of being able to read standard music notation.  This lesson specifically covers the basic symbols, note types, and the staff.

1st String Exercises
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In this lesson we will learn 3 notes on the 1st string – E, F, and G.

Notes On The B String
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In this lesson we will be studying 3 notes on the B string.

Frolic
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In this lesson we will sight read a simple tune using the 6 notes we have learned thus far.

Notes On The G String
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In this lesson we will study 2 notes on the G string.  We will also study a simple song using the notes we have learned so far on the E, B, and G string.  The song is Twinkle Twinkle Little Star (Sparkling Stella).

When The Saints Go Marching In
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Sight read When The Saints Go Marching In.

Notes on the D string
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In this lesson we will study 3 notes on the D string. D, E, and F.

Cockles and Mussels
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In this lesson we will sight read a simple tune applying some notes from the D string.

Eighth Notes
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In this lesson we are going to study eighth notes and practice with a few exercises.

Tenting Tonight
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We are going to put our eighth note study to use in this old time melody.

Clave Strumming Pattern
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In this lesson we will be studying the Clave strumming pattern.  The Clave rhythm has its roots in Afro-Cuban music.  It can be identified in such modern tunes as Buddy Holly’s Not Fade Away and several Bo Diddley songs. It has been referred to as the Bo Diddley beat.

Tips for Guitar Strumming Patterns
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Strumming and rhythm are some of the more difficult concepts to teach and learn. In this lesson we will discuss some tips for improving your rhythm and strumming technique. This technique can be applied to all guitar strumming patterns.

Keeping Time and Rhythm
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In this lesson we will discuss keeping time and go over some simple exercises to help improve your rhythm and strumming.

Beginner Strumming Pattern #1
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In this lesson we are going to cover a very basic beginner strumming pattern designed to help those struggling with rhythm and strumming.

Beginner Strumming Pattern #2
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In this lesson we are going to cover another very basic beginner strumming pattern designed to help those struggling with rhythm and strumming.

Beginner Strumming Pattern #3
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In this lesson we will learn another beginner strumming pattern designed to help those having issues with rhythm.

Beginner Strumming Pattern #4
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Description

In this lesson we will learn another beginner strumming pattern designed to help those having issues with rhythm.

Beginner Strumming Pattern #5
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Description

This will wrap up our 5 part series on beginner strumming.  In this lesson we will introduce a pattern that incorporates a dotted quarter note length.

Jack Johnson Style Strumming
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In this lesson we will be studying a percussive element of Jack Johnson’s strumming style.  Johnson uses a lot of “dead notes” in his strumming patterns.  This helps, as a solo player, establish a groove and give the music a little rhythm.  We will be using an excerpt from Bubble Toes to demonstrate.

Review of Relative Major and Minor Scales
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In this lesson we will be reviewing the relationship between Major and Minor scales and how we can connect them to move around the neck.

Connecting Chords and Scales in A minor
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In this lesson we will discuss the idea of connecting chords in the key of A minor with scales through the “walk up or down” method.

Connecting Chords and Scales in G Major
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In this lesson we will discuss the idea of connecting chords in the key of G major with scales through the “walk up or down” method.

Connecting Chords and Scales in A Major
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In this lesson we will discuss the idea of connecting chords in the key of A major with scales through the “walk up or down” method.

Pentatonic Major Scale
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In this lesson we will learn the Pentatonic Major scale and discuss how it can be used. The pentatonic major scale is a 5 note scale with a major 3rd giving it a more upbeat sound than the pentatonic minor.

Connecting Chords and Scales in E minor
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In this lesson we will discuss the idea of connecting chords in the key of E minor with scales through the “walk up or down” method.

Relative Pentatonic Major and Minor
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In this lesson we will discover how Pentatonic Major and Minor are related and how we can use this relation to move around the neck and expand our lead vocabulary.

Connecting Major (Ionian) and Dorian
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In this lesson we will do some exercises to practice connecting Major (Ionian) scale with its relative Dorian mode. Connecting scales helps with improvisation and fret board familiarity.

Dorian Mode Chops Exercises
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In this lesson we will learn a few exercises to build your chops and overall familiarity with the Dorian mode.

The Dorian Mode
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In this lesson we will learn and discuss the Dorian mode and the related chords. Dorian Mode is typically associated with Minor Seventh chords because of the common b3 and b7. Dorian can be used with minor triads as well.

How Mixolydian relates to other modes
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In this lesson we will learn how the Mixolydian mode relates to other modes we know and learn how to connect them to get around the neck.

The Mixolydian Mode
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In this lesson we will study the Mixolydian Mode. Also known as the dominant mode. This mode is used frequently in Rock, Blues, and Jazz styles.

Lydian Mode
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In this lesson we will learn and discuss the Lydian Mode and related theory.

Connecting Phrygian to the other Modes
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In this lesson we will learn how the Phrygian Mode connects with the other modes.

Phrygian Mode
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In this lesson we will learn and discuss the Phrygian mode and the related theory.

Connecting Locrian to the other Modes
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In this lesson we will learn how Locrian connects with the other modes

Locrian Mode and Min7b5 Chords
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In this lesson we will study the Locrian Mode and some related theory. We will also cover Min7b5 chords.

Connecting Lydian to the other Modes
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In this lesson we will learn how the Lydian Mode connects with the other modes.

The Pentatonic Box Fingerings
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In this lesson we will cover the 3 remaining pentatonic box shape fingerings. These shapes can be applied to pentatonic minor or major depending on where you start and the root notes you choose.

Related the CAGED system to Modes
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In this lesson we will study how the CAGED system relates to the Mode fingerings.

Review of Major Scale Modes
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This lesson is a review of the Modes of the Major Scale. I tried to answer some of the questions students have had regarding the modes.

3 Notes Per String Scales
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In this lesson we will study some ways to play scales with 3 notes per string.

3 Octave Scales
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In this lesson we will cover playing 3 octave scales. Specifically we will play a G Major, G Minor, and E Pentatonic Minor 3 octave scale.  We will also discuss how to come up with 3 octave scales by connecting the fingerings of familiar modes.

5 Pentatonic Shapes Exercise
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In this lesson we will be learning a great exercise to get more familiar with the pentatonic shapes across the entire fretboard.

Harmonic Minor Scale
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In this lesson we will be studying the Harmonic Minor Scale and why it might exist. Learn how to use it in your soloing or create interesting and new chord progressions!

Diminished Triad Inversions
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In this lesson we will learn and study the inversions on the 2, 3, and 4 strings for a diminished triad.

Augmented Triad Inversions
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In this lesson we will learn and study the inversions on the 2, 3, and 4 strings for an augmented triad.

Minor Triad Inversions
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In this lesson we will learn and study the inversions on the 2, 3, and 4 strings for a minor triad.

Major Triad Inversions
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In this lesson we will learn what an inversion is and study the inversions on the 2, 3, and 4 strings for a major triad.

Triads
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In this lesson we will learn and define a triad and review the four basic types of triads. The four basic types of triads are Major, Minor, Augmented, and Diminished.

Slash Chords
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In this lesson we will learn about slash chords and what they mean. We will also learn how to apply them in a chord progression

Embellishing the 1st Inversion Major Triad
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In this lesson we will learn how to expand upon the 1st inversion of the major triad on the 3, 4, and 5 strings.

Suspended 4 chords
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In this lesson we will learn about suspended 4 chords and how to apply them

Applying Inversions Part Two
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In this lesson we will learn a few more common applications of inversions.

More Minor Triad Inversions
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In this lesson we will learn and study minor triad inversions on 3, 4, and 5 strings.

More Major Triad Inversions
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In this lesson we will learn and study Major triad inversions on 3, 4, and 5 strings.

Applying Inversions
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In this lesson we will learn some common applications of inversions.

Major 7 Chords
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In this lesson we will learn and discuss the Major 7 chord. The major seventh chord is created by adding a natural 7th interval to a Major chord. We will study two types of Major 7 chords.

Application of Minor 7th Chords
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In this lesson we will study the application of Minor 7th chords and use them in a few chord progressions.

Minor 7 Chords
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In this lesson we will learn and discuss Minor 7 chords. Minor 7 chords are created by playing a minor triad and adding a b7 interval. We will learn two types of Minor 7 barre chords.

Application of Major 7 chords
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In this lesson we will study several applications of Major 7 chords and demonstrate using a few chord progressions.

Stylizing Barre Chords
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In this lesson we will explore some ways to add flavor to our barre chords

Stylizing by Extending Chords
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In this lesson we will introduce the concept of applying extended notes to our basic chords.

Major Scale Harmony
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In this lesson we will talk about Major scale harmony in triads and sevenths. Major scale Harmony dictates what chords can be made using the degrees of the Major scale.

Three Chord Progressions
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In this lesson we will study the most common among chord progression in pop music, the 3 chord progression. These progressions are used in nearly every genre and remain a staple in western music.

Two Chord Progressions
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In this lesson we will study the most basic chord progressions. The most basic chord progressions start with 2 chords.

Dominant 9 Chords
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In this lesson we will learn the formula and how to play a dominant 9 chord. The dominant 9 chord is often used in blues and Jazz music.

The CAGED System
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In this lesson we will study the CAGED system, a method that organizes the fretboard into five zones using five familiar chord shapes. The patterns can be applied to chord shapes, scales, and arpeggios.

Minor Progressions
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In this lesson we will study some chord progressions based on Minor scale harmony. Some examples given are All Along the Watchtower and Thrill is Gone

Mixolydian Mode Progressions
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In this lesson we will study a few Mixolydian Mode chord progressions, including Louie, Louie and Sweet Child O Mine.

Intro to Modal Harmony
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In this lesson we will discuss modal harmony. Modal harmony is the construction of chords and chord progressions within the different modes.

Four Chord Progressions
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In this lesson we will study some common four chord progressions including the 50’s progression.

Ragtime Changes
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In this lesson we will study some common chord changes from the early jazz style of Ragtime.

Dominant 13 Chords
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In in this lesson we will learn two shapes for a Dominant 13 chord.

Dom7 Chord Voicings
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In this lesson we will learn some new Dom7 chord voicings based out of the Dom7 Barre Chord root on E string and root on A string.

Minor Chord Voicings
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In this lesson we will learn some new Minor chord voicings based out of the Minor Barre Chord root on E string and root on A string.

Major Chord Voicings
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In this lesson we will learn some new Major chord voicings based out of the Major Barre Chord root on E string and root on A string.

Acoustic Chord Embellishments
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In this lesson we will study some ways to embellish simple open chords making your playing more interesting. Specifically we will be focusing on chord embellishments of the G, C, and D open chords.  Embellishments take simple, plain chords and make them more musical.  Some examples would be adding hammer ons and pull offs within the chord and adding extensions.

Alternatives To Barre Chords
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In this lesson we will be studying some alternatives to playing barre chords. If you are having trouble with barre chords this will be a good lesson for you.

Major Chord Inversions
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Learning chord inversions will increase your knowledge of the fretboard and improve your rhythm playing in a more creative way. In this lesson we will dive into major chord inversions using the B, G, and D strings.

Minor Chord Inversions
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Learning chord inversions will increase your knowledge of the fretboard and improve your rhythm playing in a more creative way. In this lesson we will dive into minor chord inversions using the B, G, and D strings.

Soloing with Pentatonic Minor
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In this lesson we will analyze the pentatonic minor scale and how to apply it along with other embellishments to the art of playing lead

Bells and Whistles
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In this lesson we will cover more tricks to add to your lead playing. Trills, Double Stops and vibrato are demonstrated and discussed.

More Pentatonic Minor Licks
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In this lesson we will learn and study several popular licks using the Pentatonic Minor scale.

Transposing Licks
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In this lesson we will practice and learn how to transpose licks to different keys.

Open E Pentatonic Minor
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In this lesson we will study the open E Pentatonic Minor scale and study some licks based out of the open position.

Riffing with E Pentatonic Minor
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In this lesson we will learn two riffs based out of the open E Pentatonic Minor position.

Blues Scale Licks
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In this lesson we will study ways to apply the Blues scale in your lead playing.

Tying It all Together
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In this lesson we will cover blending the Pentatonic Minor scale and the Blues scale in your lead playing.

Some Major Pentatonic Riffs
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In this lesson we will learn and examine some licks and riffs using the Major Pentatonic scale.

Relative Pentatonic Major and Minor
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In this lesson we will discover how Pentatonic Major and Minor are related and how we can use this relation to move around the neck and expand our lead vocabulary.

More Pentatonic Major Licks
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In this lesson we will learn some examples of how to use the relative pentatonic minor scale to expand our major pentatonic licks.

Some Dorian Licks
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In this lesson we will study and learn some ways to use Dorian in your soloing and improvisation.

Applying the Mixolydian Mode 1
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In this lesson we will learn how to apply the Mixolydian mode to our lead playing

Applying the Mixolydian Mode 2
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In this lesson we will learn more examples of how to apply the Mixolydian Mode to our lead playing.

Combining Mixolydian with Blues Scale
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In this lesson we will combine the Mixolydian mode with the Blues scale in our Blues improvisation.

Chuck Berry Style Blues
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In this lesson we will study blues improv in the style of Chuck Berry combining Mixolydian and Blues scale

Using Pentatonic Major in Country
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In this lesson we will learn how to use the Pentatonic Major scale to make our leads sound more country.

The Country Scale
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In this lesson we will learn the Country Scale and how to apply it to our improvisation and lead playing.

Country Riffing
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In this lesson we will learn some country style riffs using the b3rd and b7th.

Country Licks
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In this lesson we will learn some country licks you can use in your lead playing.

More Country Licks
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In this lesson we will learn some more country licks you can use in your lead playing, combining the country scale and pentatonic major.

The Pentatonic Box Fingerings
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In this lesson we will cover the 3 remaining pentatonic box shape fingerings. These shapes can be applied to pentatonic minor or major depending on where you start and the root notes you choose.

Applying the Pentatonic Boxes to Minor
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In this lesson we will learn some example licks in pentatonic minor using the pentatonic box shapes.

Applying the Pentatonic Boxes to Major
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In this lesson we will learn some example licks in pentatonic major using the pentatonic box shapes.

Improvising 101
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In this lesson we will discuss basic concepts and approach to improvising over chord progressions. We will talk about analyzing chord progressions, determining scales to use, and arpeggios.

Blues Improvisation
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This lesson is a basic introduction to improvising over a 12 bar blues pattern. Use of pentatonic major and minor are discussed.

Blues Improvisation 2
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in this we will continue with concepts on soloing over blues changes.

Soloing with Dorian
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In this lesson we will be studying concepts for improvising with the Dorian mode. For this lesson you should be familiar with the 5 pentatonic box shapes and all the modes of the major scale.

Improvising With the Major Scale
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In this lesson we will learn about soloing with the Major scale.

Dorian Box 2 (Relative Phrygian)
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In this lesson we will be continuing our study of improvising with the Dorian mode. This lesson focuses on the use of box 2 or the relative Phrygian fingering for Dorian.

Dorian Box 4 (Relative Aeolian)
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In this lesson we will study the use of box 4 of the Dorian mode. Box 4 is the relative Aeolian fingering.

Adding Blues Scale and Octaves with Dorian
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In this lesson we will experiment with adding the b5 from the blues scale and octave techniques to the Dorian mode.

Ascending and Descending Dorian Licks
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In this lesson we will cover the concept of ascending and descending licks within the Dorian scale.

Phrasing
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In this lesson we discuss the concept of phrasing as applied to soloing over chord changes. We will study some possibilities and things to focus on to develop this skill.

Double Stop Bends in Style of Stevie Ray Vaughan
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In this lesson we will study some unique bends in the style of SRV. This technique can be great for adding to your vocab of licks

Beginner Minor Blues Solo
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In this lesson we will study a beginner level minor blues solo.  This lesson is specifically designed for those just beginning their exploration of blues improvisation and soloing with the pentatonic minor scale.  We will go through one pass of a minor blues chord progression note by note.  You are encouraged to expand upon the specific solo taught and come up with your own style.

Beginner Major Blues Solo
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In this lesson we will study a beginner level major blues solo.  This lesson is specifically designed for those just beginning their exploration of blues improvisation and soloing with the pentatonic major scale.  We will go through one pass of a major blues chord progression note by note.  You are encouraged to expand upon the specific solo taught and come up with your own style.

Improvisation Over Knockin On Heaven’s Door
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In this lesson we will be using the song and chord changes of Knockin On Heaven’s Door to study three important soloing and improvisational concepts. These three concepts to consider when approaching a solo are studying the melody, determining usable scales, and chord tone targeting.

Tips For Sticking With It
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We have had several requests from members asking for tips on how to stick with learning how to play guitar. In this video Bryan will offer some ideas on how you can stay consistent with practice

Daily Practice Routine
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In this lesson Bryan will discuss some ideas for daily practice routine.  This will vary for each player depending on what their focus is at the time.

Building Chops
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In this lesson we will work on building your pentatonic minor chops with a few exercises.

Blues Scale Chops
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In this lesson we will apply the blues scale to a couple chop building exercises.

The Bends
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This lesson will cover an exercise that helps improve your bending techniques. The exercise uses the Pentatonic Minor scale as a base.

Killer Scale and Arpeggio Exercise
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In this lesson we will learn a scale/arpeggio combo exercise that will be a great finger and picking exercise.

Pentatonic Major Chops Exercise
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In this lesson we will learn a few exercises that will help build your chops and get more familiar with the Pentatonic Major Scale.

Locrian Mode Chops Exercises
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In this lesson we will learn and practice a few Locrian Mode exercises.

Lydian Mode Chops Exercises
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In this lesson we will learn two exercises to get familiar with the Lydian fingering.

Phrygian Mode Chops Exercises
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In this lesson we will learn two exercises to get familiar with the Phrygian fingering.

Single String Harmonizing
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In this lesson we will learn how to build triad chords of the major scale on one string.

Daily Scale and Mode Workout
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In this lesson we will discuss how to practice your scales and modes on a daily basis

Combining Legato and Pedal Tones
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In this lesson we will learn a few ways to incorporate both legato and pedal tone techniques into a few licks and exercises.

Pedal Tones
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In this lesson we will learn about pedal tones and present a few examples.

Legato in C Dorian
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In this lesson we will cover Legato exercise in C Dorian.

Legato Exercises
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In this lesson we will learn about Legato and several legato finger exercises. Legato indicates that musical notes are played smoothly and connected. The player transitions from note to note with no intervening silence.

Right Hand Exercise
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In this lesson we will cover an exercise that works on the picking skills of the right hand. Great for all players, especially those that want to work on speed and accuracy.

Left Hand Exercise
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In this lesson we will cover an exercise that works on the strength, dexterity, and independence of the left hand or fret hand.

Left And Right Hand Sync
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In this lesson we will cover an exercise that combines both the right and left hand

String Skipping Exercise
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In this lesson we will be learning a string skipping exercise to add to your daily practice routine.  The focus is working on the pick hand and the ability to cleanly skip strings.  It also helps with alternating picking and learning the major chord arpeggio.

Hybrid Picking Basics
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Hybrid picking is the technique of using both your fingers and a pick to play the strings.  It is used for several reasons including efficiency, tone, and style.  Hybrid picking is used in nearly every genre and a great technique that will expand your playing capabilities. In this lesson we will start with a basic exercise using the pick and second finger.

Hybrid Picking Basics 2
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In this lesson we will be applying a simple hybrid picking technique to a common blues turnaround in the key of G

Major Scale Harmony and Chord Theory
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Learn how we come up with chords using the major scale! This is an important part of music theory and very applicable to composing and learning songs. Having the knowledge of Major Scale Harmony and chord theory can greatly improve your ability to learn songs by ear

Transposing Licks
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In this lesson we will practice and learn how to transpose licks to different keys.

Applying the Circle of Fifths
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In this lesson we will explore some ways to use the Circle of Fifths with some chord progressions.

Circle of Fifths
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In this lesson we discuss the circle of fifths and what it means.

Transposing Licks and melodies
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In this lesson we will study some techniques for transposing licks and melodies.

Transposition of music
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In this lesson we will learn about transposing music. Transposing is the shifting of a melody, a harmonic progression or an entire musical piece to another key, while maintaining the same tone structure.

Basic Songwriting Approach
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In this lesson we will cover some basic songwriting techniques using Major scale harmony.

Keys and Chords
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In this lesson we will discuss keys and the meaning of the term. We will also demonstrate how keys can be used to determine chords that sound good together.

Modal Interchange
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Learn the difference between a key change and a modal interchange in this theory lesson. We will take a look at 2 songs that use modal interchange.

Making Common Chord Progressions Unique
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In this lesson we are going to learn how to take a very common chord progression and make it more interesting. By using strumming, arpeggios, and articulations we can make a stock chord progression into a unique guitar part. Try to come up with a simple 3 or 4 chord progression and create your own unique part.

How To Find The Mode of A Song
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Songs can be written in different modes other than the Major Scale.  For example, Mixolydian is a common mode used to write and compose Rock N Roll tunes and Dorian is common in Latin music.  In this lesson we will study and learn how to find the mode a song may have been written in.  This can help us determine the chords used and how to improvise over those chords.

Hammer ons and Pull offs
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This lesson covers the techniques of hammer ons and pull offs. Several exercises and applications are demonstrated.

More Tricks for your Picks
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In this lesson we will cover a few more techniques you can use to spice up your playing. Slides, scratches, Octaves, and pick slides are discussed and demonstrated.

Bending Strings
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In this lesson you will be introduced to the technique of bending strings and various types of bends.

Bells and Whistles
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In this lesson we will cover more tricks to add to your lead playing. Trills, Double Stops and vibrato are demonstrated and discussed.

Stylize with Hammer Ons
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In this lesson we will introduce the concept of playing hammer ons within our open chords. This technique can add movement and spice to a simple chord progression.

Stylize with Pull offs
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In this lesson we will introduce the concept of playing pull offs within our open chords.

Combining Hammer Ons and Pull Offs
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In this lesson we will combine hammer on’s and pull off’s to create movement within our chords.

Stylizing with Slides
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In this lesson we will introduce the concept of sliding chords for flavor and texture.

Harmonics
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In this lesson we will learn about harmonics. We will cover technique, application, and how to use them to tune your guitar

Pinch Harmonics
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In this lesson we will examine pinch harmonics and technique.

Intro to Tremolo Picking
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In this lesson we will study tremolo picking, different techniques, and a few exercises.

The Whammy Bar
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This lesson is an intro to the whammy bar.

Trills
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In this lesson we will be learning specifically about trills and where you might apply them.  A trill is really nothing more than a rapid alternation of 2 notes causing a vibrato like effect.  On guitar this is accomplished with hammer ons and pull offs. I have also provided an exercise to work on the technique.

Introduction to Finger Style
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In this lesson we will study the basics of finger picking, specifically finger picking hand position. We will also learn the rest stroke.

Combining Thumb and Fingers
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In this lesson we will learn to combine the thumb and fingers using the Free Stroke.

Simple Finger Picking Patterns
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In this lesson we will learn a few simple finger picking patterns.

More Finger Picking Patterns
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In this lessons we will learn a few more complex finger picking patterns.

Plucking notes together
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In this lesson we will learn how to pluck two or more notes together using our finger picking method.

Tying it all Together
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In this lesson we will study some finger picking patterns that combine chords and arpeggios.

Finger Picking Scale Exercise
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In this lesson we will concentrate on out index and middle finger alternating method using some familiar scale patterns.

Babe I’m Gonna Leave You by Led Leppelin
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In this lessons we will do a finger style song study of the Led Zeppelin classic “Babe I’m Gonna Leave You.”

Unforgiven by Metallica
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In this lesson we will do a finger picking song study of Unforgiven by Metallica.

Landslide by Fleetwood Mac
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In this lesson we will do a song study of the Fleetwood Mac classic “Landslide.”

Intro To Chord Melody Style Guitar
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Chord Melody style guitar is essentially solo guitar in the sense that the harmony, melody, and sometimes bass are all played at the same time on one instrument. You are a one man band! This is a difficult skill to grasp and is common in Classical and Jazz styles of guitar, although it can be used to play any type of song in any genre. In this lesson we are going to start basic with a simple song, Amazing Grace.

Intro to Slide Guitar
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In this lesson we will discuss the basic principles of slide guitar, types of slides, and basic techniques.

Slide and the Blues Scale
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In this lesson we will cover some basic slide licks based out of the blues scale pattern.

Chording Major Triads with Slide
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In this lesson we will cover playing Major chord progressions with the slide.

Alternate Blues Scale Pattern
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In this lesson we will learn an alternate blues scale pattern that works well with slide and combines the blues scale with our major triad position.

Muddy Waters Inspired Slide
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In this lesson we will learn a Muddy Waters inspired slide progression in the key of G.

Elmore James Style Slide
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In this lesson we will study the famous slide licks of one of the most influential early electric slide players, Elmore James.

Mike Campbell Style Slide
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In this lesson we will learn the slide solo to Learning To Fly by Tom Petty.

Open G Tuning For Slide
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In this lesson we will discover slide using an alternate tuning of G

Come On in My Kitchen
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In this lesson we will learn a version of Come on in My Kitchen by Robert Johnson using an open G tuning.

Statesboro Blues Song Study
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In this lesson we will learn some slide licks from one of the most famous slide guitar songs ever, Statesboro Blues by the Allman Brothers Band.

Statesboro Blues Intro Solo (Slide Study 2)
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In this lesson we will cover the intro slide solo to Statesboro Blues by the Allman Brothers as a Duane Allman slide study lesson.  Don’t forget to tune your guitar to open E.

Here is the link to the lesson with the first 4 licks – Statesboro Blues Intro Study 1

Dust My Broom by Elmore James
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Great blues slide guitar tune.  Elmore James noted as the King of the Slide Guitar is a great player to study if you are looking to learn how to play slide. Song is played in open D tuning.

Wont Back Down by Tom Petty
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Relatively easy guitar part using palm muted power chords through the verses and just 3 easy open chords in the chorus. C, G, and D open chords are all that is needed. The slide solo by Mike Campbell is an easy one in the realm of slide guitar. Great one to learn if you are just starting out on slide.

Major Arpeggios
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In this lessons we will discuss and learn some Major triad arpeggios.

Minor Arpeggios
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In this lesson we will learn and discuss minor triad arpeggios.

Dominant Seventh Arpeggios
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In this lesson we will discuss and learn Dominant 7th Arpeggios.

Learning Songs by Ear
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In this lesson we will examine a few methods on how to figure out the chords to a song by using just your ear.

How To Use Your Amp
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In this lesson we will go over the basic functions and features of your guitar amplifier. We will also cover how to get certain basic tones and the difference between solid state and tube amps.

Intro to Effects Pedals
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In this lesson we will discuss effects pedals and basic usage.

Exploring Different Guitars
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In this lesson we will explore different types of electric guitars and their characteristics.

Amps and Tone
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In this lesson we will discuss and demonstrate how to get different tones out of your amp.

Les Paul vs. Strat
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In this lesson we are going to discuss the differences between a Gibson Les Paul and a Fender Strat, two of the most popular guitars.

Solid vs. Hollow Body
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In this lesson we will talk about the differences between a solid body guitar and hollow body guitar

Protect Your Guitar in The Winter
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The winter can be hard on your guitars.  Dry air in the house put out by your furnace can bring the humidity down to damaging levels. In this lesson I will show you an inexpensive way to protect your guitar using everyday household items.

Song Lessons

Oh My Darling (Clementine)
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In this lesson we will be learning a chord melody version of Oh My Darling Clementine.  This is a great song to learn chord melody as the melody is fairly simple and just three chords are used, G, G7, and C.

Blue Moon Of Kentucky by Bill Monroe (Chord Melody)
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In this lesson we will be learning Bill Monroe’s Blue Moon of Kentucky.  We will be learning this chord melody style with a pick although you could use your fingers as well.  The song consists of just 3 chords- I, IV, V in the key of A.

Hey Jude by The Beatles (Chord Melody Style)
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In this lesson we will be learning Hey Jude chord melody fingerstyle. It is highly recommended that you have studied the basic fingerstyle lessons in the Fingerstyle Lesson Category under Skill Lessons.

White Christmas – Solo Chord Melody
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In this lesson we will be learning a chord melody version of White Christmas. The arrangement is played fingerstyle in the key of A. Due to the more complicated chord fingerings used it is rated for intermediate players.

Oh Christmas Tree (Oh Tennenbaum) Chord Melody
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In this lesson we will be learning a solo chord melody version of Oh Christmas Tree. This lesson is not for beginners as the chords used are a little more advanced. We will be playing a fingerstyle version in the Key of E. Once you get it down, sounds great!

Little Martha by The Allman Brothers
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In this lesson we will be learning the instrumental Little Martha. The song is played fingerstyle with open E tuning.

Will The Circle Be Unbroken (Chord Melody)
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In this lesson we will be learning a chord melody version of Will The Circle Be Unbroken.  Chord melody style involves playing the chords and melody at the same time.  This can be tricky and challenging but very rewarding when accomplished.  This particular song is a great one to try this style as it is not too difficult and involves a repeating melody pattern. Chords used are just G, C, and D open chords.  This version lends itself to a bluegrassy sound.

Wildwood Flower
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In this lesson we will be learning the Carter family classic Wildwood Flower. This is a great example of a traditional Bluegrass style tune.  The melody is played within the chords much like a chord melody or solo.

Taking Care of Business
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Taking Care of Business, the classic blues rock tune from BTO, is a great one for everyone to learn. It is primarily made up of three power chords with the pinky adding the 6th degree. We have seen this kind of move before in a blues shuffle for example. We will also take a look at the intro lead licks.

Never Been To Spain
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In this lesson we will cover the song Never Been To Spain. The song consists on just 3 chords, the I, IV, and V chords in the key of E. We will go over the intro note for note and then come up with a strumming pattern for the rest of the tune. For those of you struggling with rhythm and strumming we will discuss and break down the rhythm, discovering how we come up with the Down Up pattern. This may really help! We will also cover some concepts for soloing over the changes

Amie (lead solo) Pure Prairie League
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In this lesson we will be covering the solo for Amie note for note. The solo is based in A Pentatonic Major / Country Scale. We will be talking about the scales, chord tones, and general theory behind the solo so you can improvise of the changes as well.

Not Fade Away by Buddy Holly
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In this lesson we will learn Buddy Holly’s classic Not Fade Away. The song was covered by many other artists including the Grateful Dead and Rolling Stones. The song consists of just 3 chords in the key of A – A, D, and E open chords. This is a great example of use of the clave rhythm pattern. We will also cover the solo break

Melissa by The Allman Brothers Band
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Learn the classic acoustic tune Melissa by the Allman Brothers Band. Mostly written in the key of E, the verse applies a nice E major to F#m to G#m chord progression with the added B and high E strings ringing throughout to create a beautiful sound revolving around the tonal center of E, even as you glide through the minor chords. The pre chorus and chorus make use of several barre chords so be prepared for barre chord shapes using the low E and A string as the root.

Ophelia (Lead Parts and Solo) The Band
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In this lesson we will study the lead parts of Ophelia. Specifically, we will cover the guitar breaks and both solos that guitarist Robbie Robertson performs.  These solos are great examples of chord tone targeting with each chord played in the rhythm section.

Ophelia by The Band
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In this lesson we will learn Robbie Robertson’s guitar part to the Band’s 1975 tune Ophelia. The song has an obvious Dixieland, ragtime feel complete with horns and Garth Hudson’s experimental keyboard lines. Robertson’s guitar part, while prominent, fits perfectly in the mix while leaving room, sonically, for all the other instruments. A great lesson on using different chord voicings and finding a part that fits with the rest on an ensemble.

Little Wing by Jimi Hendrix
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In this lesson we will be covering the Little Wing intro note for note and also studying the chord progression for the rest of the song.  The song is in Em or G (they are relative) and uses a lot of barre chords.  Once you have the chord progression down it can be a great tune to jam and improvise over.

Have You Ever Seen The Rain by CCR
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Have You Ever Seen The Rain is played in the key of C and uses open chords C, G, F, Am with some transitional chords in the chorus.  We will be covering the arrangement along with a couple strumming pattern options.

Summer Breeze by Seals and Crofts
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In this lesson we will be learning Summer Breeze by Seals and Croft on acoustic guitar.  There are 4 sections, intro, verse, chorus, and bridge. Mostly open chords are used, but the bridge does present some tricky slash chords.

Come As You Are by Nirvana
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Come As You Are by Nirvana has a little of everything. Great riff, cool chords, and simple, effective solo. Must tune down a whole step to be in tune and get that sound.

Sugaree by The Grateful Dead
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In this lesson we will be studying Sugaree by the Grateful Dead. The song is in the key of E major or B Mixolydian.  We will be covering the chord progression as well as some note for note licks as played by Jerry and some John Mayer licks from a Dead and Company version.

Grateful Dead Version

Dead and Company Version

The Needle And The Damage Done by Neil Young
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In this lesson we will be learning The Needle and The Damage Done by Neil Young. The chord progression consists of just a few chords but incorporates some very nice melodic lines and descending bass line.

TNT (Lead Solo) by AC/DC
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In this lesson we will be learning the solo for TNT.  In classic Angus Young style, the solo is almost exclusively played using notes from the E Pentatonic Minor scale.

Don’t Be Cruel by Elvis
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Don’t Be Cruel by Elvis is a great tune for beginners to learn. The song is played in the key of D and uses just a handful of open chords, D, G, A, and Em. Start off with the opening bluesy riff and continue the rest of the song with the same strumming pattern throughout.

Sugar Magnolia by The Grateful Dead
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In this lesson we will be studying Sugar Magnolia by the Grateful Dead. The song is in the key of A and incorporates several challenging chord voicings played by the unique rhythm player Bob Weir. Learning this tune will increase your knowledge of different chord shapes and country rock style riffs.

Patience Solos by Guns N Roses
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In this lesson we will be learning the lead solo parts to Patience. We will be covering the intro solo and the main solo in the middle. Slash applies great melodic licks that follow the chord progression. A good one to study and analyze.

Patience by Guns N Roses
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In this lesson we will be studying the acoustic tune Patience by Guns N Roses. The song requires you to tune down a 1/2 step to be in tune with the original recording. From a chord standpoint it uses mostly easy open chords but does apply some melodic lines within. The arrangement is made up of 3 parts, verse, chorus, and an outro vamp. We will be studying the lead solos in a separate lesson.

Twist And Shout by The Beatles
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In this lesson we will be learning Twist and Shout by The Beatles.  The song consists of basically one riff in the key of A.  We will be studying this and the complete guitar solo.

Slow Ride by Foghat
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In this lesson we will be learning Slow Ride by Foghat.  The song is composed around an A power chord groove with lots of bluesy riffs.

Let It Be Guitar Solo
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In this lesson we will be taking a close look at the guitar solo in the Beatles’ classic “Let It Be”.  The solo is constructed using C pentatonic major.

No Matter What by Badfinger
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In this lesson we will be learning No Matter What by Badfinger.  The song consists of basically 2 sections that repeat.  There are 2 guitar parts on the original recording and we have combined the 2 parts into 1 containing the most recognizable lines.  The part includes a lot of melodic arpeggio play on the A major and Bm chords.  This will be the most challenging part of the song.  We will also be covering the slide guitar solo.  Well written song with great chord progressions and melodic lines.

Can’t Buy Me Love by The Beatles
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In this lesson we will be learning Can’t Buy Me Love by the Beatles. We will be covering all the parts including the guitar solo. This song can be played on electric or acoustic. Chords used are Em, Am, Dm, G, C, and F. The strumming pattern is pretty straight forward.

I Get Around by The Beach Boys
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Description

I Get Around by The Beach Boys is made up of 3 parts primarily, verse, chorus, and solo section.  For electric guitar it is mostly palm muted eighth note power chords in the choruses.  For the verses we have an interesting single note part with a classic Brian Wilson melodic riff.  For acoustic we will be learning the open chords to get for of the harmonic structure of the song. We will also be covering the guitar solo note for note.

Stand Back by The Allman Brothers
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In this lesson we will be learning Stand Back by The Allman Brothers. The arrangement is pretty straight ahead. The song is centered around a cool funky blues riff primarily. Chords needed are A, B7#9, D/A, F#7, E, and D.

Head Over Feet by Alanis Morissette
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In this lesson we will be learning Head Over Feet by Alanis Morissette. It is a relatively simple song with just two parts, a verse and chorus. Chords needed are C, G, Am, F, Bb, D, Bm, and A. We will be covering a couple different strumming patterns that can be used.

Can’t Stop by The Red Hot Chili Peppers
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In this lesson we will be learning Can’t Stop by Red Hot Chili Peppers.  The song consists of  3 parts, the main verse riff, the chorus, and a bridge. We will also be covering the solo.  Guitarist John Frusciante has a unique style that is difficult to mimic but we will show ways to get around his use of thumb to play bass notes. He uses all barre chords for the chorus and bridge with some extensions added for color.

Me And Bobby McGee by Janis Joplin
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In this lesson we will be learning Me And Bobby McGee on acoustic guitar. The song consists of a simple 3 chord progression that switches keys about half way through. It starts in the key of G playing G, C, and D chords. The key change is to A using A, E, and D chords. The most challenging part about this tune is the intro strumming pattern.

Your Love by The Outfield
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In this lesson we will be learning the 80’s rock tune Your Love by The Outfield. A big portion of the song is made up of a palm muted, 8th note, power chord progression with specific accents. Some nice sus chords are also used in various parts. Fun song to play!

Never My Love by The Association
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In this lesson we will be learning Never My Love by the Association. To be in tune with the original recording it will require a capo at the first fret. There are several chords in this one, C, G, Bb, F, Am, Em, Em7, Esus4, E, Am7, Dsus4, D, G/D, and Cmaj7.

Jesse’s Girl by Rick Springfield
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Description

Jesse’s Girl by Rick Springfield, a classic 80’s tune, is written mostly with power chords. Pretty easy tune for the most part, but the Bridge could be challenging when attempting to emulate the synth parts that drive the Bridge.

Finish What Ya Started by Van Halen
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Description

Finish What Ya Started is in the key of E and is built primarily around a twangy, honky tonk style riff. The Verse and Choruses consist of Eddie playing around this riff in E and A. He plays the riff a little different with every pass, so we are going to focus on a few variations and hit some key licks note for note. Challenging and fun tune!

Me And Julio Down By The Schoolyard by Paul Simon
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In this lesson we will be learning Me And Julio Down by The Schoolyard by Paul Simon. The song consists of just 4 chords, A, E, D, and G. The challenging part of this song is the rhythm. There is a consistent 16th note strum pattern with dead notes that creates a percussive sound throughout. There is also some Time Signature changes going from 4/4 to 2/4.

Birthday by The Beatles
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In this lesson we will be learning Birthday by the Beatles. The song consists of basically 3 parts plus a short guitar solo/interlude. The verse is comprised of a I-IV-V riff in the key of A. For the bridge the song modulates to the key of C while the guitar copies the bassline and moves from C to G.

Lights by Journey
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Description

Lights by Journey is made up of basically 2 parts. Neil Schon uses a lot of Hendrix style chords putting the 3rd on the bottom of a major chord to create a progression with some melodic lines mixed in.

That Thing You Do by the Wonders
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In this lesson we will be learning the theme song the movie That Thing You Do. The song has a real 50’s or early 60’s feel. The tune has some great chords progression reminiscent of the time period. We will also be learning the lead guitar solo.

In the Ghetto by Elvis
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In this lesson we will be learning In The Ghetto by Elvis. The original recording was done with a capo on the first fret. The main riff of the song is played with a hybrid picking style. The rest of the tune is arpeggiated chords and strumming. Chords used are A, E, D, and a Bm barre chord shape.

Last Kiss by Pearl Jam
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In this lesson we will be learning the song Last Kiss by Pearl Jam. Very simple song and great for beginners. The song uses just 4 chords and the arrangement is the same throughout the entire tune. Chords used are G, Em, D, and C.

Rumble by Link Wray
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In this lesson we will be learning the instrumental Rumble by Link Wray. The song consists of just 4 chords and a descending pentatonic minor riff in the key of E. The 3 chords used are D, E, A, and B7.

Heart Shaped Box by Nirvana
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In this lesson we will be learning Heart Shaped Box by Nirvana.  The song requires an alternate tuning of Drop D plus tuning 1/2 step down from there.  Two main parts make up the song, a verse riff and power chord driven chorus.  We will also be covering the guitar solo.

Ohio by CSN&Y
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In this lesson we will study Crosby, Stills, Nash, and Youngs’ Ohio. The song was played originally on electric guitar but also played acoustic often in live performances. We have chosen to do the lesson on acoustic but it can be played the exact same way on both electric and acoustic. The song has just 4 chords, D5, F, C, and Gmin7. It requires you to drop both E strings to D so you are in Drop D tuning. The arrangement is simple. It involves a riff within the D, F, and C chords for the intro and breaks and everything else is strumming.

Outshined by Soundgarden
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In this lesson we will be learning Outshined by Soundgarden. The song is played in drop D tuning and contains some really heavy power chord riffs. The song was written using 7/4 and 4/4 time signatures. Mostly power chords in this one minus the Pre Chorus that revolves around a different D major chord voicing.

Good Times Bad Times by Led Zeppelin
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In this lesson we will be learning the riff oriented Good Times Bad Times. The main riff is based off of E5 and D5. The chorus is a 3 chord arrangement that modulates to a different key each chorus.

My Hero by the Foo Fighters
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In this lesson we will be learning the Foo Fighters’ My Hero. The song revolves around a chord progression of E to C#5 and a double stop melody line that opens the tune in the intro. This melody comes back around in the middles section as well. The chorus is made up of A5 and E5 with some octave lines creating the driving sound of this rock tune. This song is heavily over driven so get out your fuzz boxes and distortion pedals!

Outside Woman Blues by Cream
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In this lesson we will be learning Cream and Eric Clapton’s Outside Woman Blues. The song revolves mainly around a bluesy riff in E pentatonic minor. The two chords used are E and B dom7#9.

Fell On Black Days (Acoustic) by Soundgarden
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In this lesson we will be learning the acoustic version of Fell On Black Days. The song revolves around a main power chord type riff. Bars of 4 and 2 make for interesting timing and feel. We also cover the instrumental interlude in its entirety.

Rocky Raccoon by the Beatles
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In this lesson we will be learning the Beatles’ classic Rocky Raccoon. Just 4 chords in this one with a simple strum pattern and easy arrangement. The chords are Am7, D7, G, G7, and C.

Stairway To Heaven (Solo)
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In this lesson we will be learning the classic outro solo to Stairway To Heaven. Jimmy Page covers nearly every position of the A pentatonic minor scale in this one and also throws in the occasional F, the b6 from an A minor scale, to target the root note of the F chord played in the progression. This is a great chops builder!

Lay Down Sally by Eric Clapton
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In this lesson we will be learning Lay Down Sally by Eric Clapton. The song consists of just 3 chords in the key of A, A, D, and E. The tune has a country blues feel with a little bassline within the guitar part. The parts combine chords, basslines, and blues riffs. The recording has 2 guitar tracks throughout. I have combined these two parts into one resembling the most noticeable of the parts.

La Grange by ZZ Top
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In this lesson we will be learning the riffs to ZZ Top’s La Grange.  The song consists of some classic bluesy style riffs played in A and then shifting to C. The riff can be played fingerstyle or with a pick

Don’t Worry Baby by The Beach Boys
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Description

Don’t Worry Baby by The Beach Boys is written in the key of E with a key change to F# for the chorus. Because of the key change it requires the use of barre chords. Other than that, pretty easy to play with a simple strumming pattern.

Up Around The Bend by CCR
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Description

Up Around The Bend is a 3 chord rock tune by CCR. The song is in the key of D and requires a D, A, and G chord. The iconic opening riff is quite easy outlining the notes of a D chord and then an A chord. We will also be covering the lead solo.

Tears In Heaven by Eric Clapton
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Description

In this lesson we will be learning the fingerstyle tune Tears in Heaven by Eric Clapton.  Clapton played the song on a nylon string, classical style guitar, but it can be played on any guitar.  Don’t be intimidated by all the chords in this tune.  While it seems like a lot, it actually repeats much of the same progressions throughout.

Proud Mary by CCR
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In this lesson we will be learning Proud Mary by CCR.  We will cover all the rhythm parts and the lead fills.  The song is played in the key of D and uses the following chords. C, A, G, F, and D.

Proud Mary by CCR (Solo)
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In this lesson we will study the solo to Proud Mary.  The solo is played with D pentatonic major and makes use of a lot of double stop techniques.

Passenger Side by Wilco
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Description

Passenger Side by Wilco consists of mainly open chords.  Chords used are C, F, G, Am, G/B, Am/G, and D.  There is a specific arpeggio played over the C chord in the verse, but everything else is played with a simple strum pattern.

Brown Eyed Girl by Van Morrison
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In this lesson we will be learning the classic Brown Eyed Girl. This tune is a good song for beginners requiring only a few simple open chords

Honky Tonk Woman by The Rolling Stones
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Description

In this lesson we will study the song Honky Tonk Woman. This tune requires some hybrid picking country style.

Brown Sugar by The Rolling Stones
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In this lesson we will incorporate the open G chords in this Rolling Stone classic Brown Sugar.

Don’t Stop Believing
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In this lesson we will study the tune Don’t Stop Believing by Journey.

When I Come Around
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In this lesson we will study the song When I Come Around by Green Day.

Eye of the Tiger
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In this lesson we study the song Eye of the Tiger by Survivor.

TNT by ACDC
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In this lesson we will do a song study of the classic ACDC song TNT. The song uses primarily power chords and is a great beginner tune.

Handshake Drugs by Wilco
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In this lesson we will do a song study of Handshake Drugs by Wilco.

Blue Sky by the Allman Brothers
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In this lesson we will learn and study the song “Blue Sky” by the Allman Brothers. This song exemplifies the use of the Pentatonic Major scale.

Highway To Hell by AC/DC
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This lesson is a song study of Highway To Hell by AC/DC.

Highway To Hell Lead Solo
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In this lesson we will study Angus Young’s solo in Highway To Hell.  Young uses primarily pentatonic major and minor for the basis of his solo.  The song and solo are in the key of A

Midnight Rider by the Allman Brothers Band
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This lesson is a song study of the Allman Brothers Band’s “Midnight Rider.” It will focus on the intro main riff, verse, chorus, and bridge chord progression.

Black Magic Woman by Santana
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In this lesson we will learn Santana’s “Black Magic Woman.” This song is based around a Dorian mode.

In Memory of Elizabeth Reed
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In this lesson we will learn “In Memory of Elizabeth Reed” by the Allman Brothers. This song uses Dorian mode as the basis of its riffs and melodies.

Whole Lotta Love by Led Zeppelin
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This lesson is a song study of Whole Lotta Love by Led Zeppelin.

Wish You Were Here (Intro Lead) by Pink Floyd
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Description

This lesson is a study of the intro solo in Wish You Were Here by Pink Floyd.

Squeeze Box by the Who
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Description

This is a song study of the Who’s Squeeze Box.

Layla by Derek and the Dominoes
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This is a song study of the Eric Clapton classic Layla.

Purple Haze by Jimi Hendrix
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This lesson is a song study of Purple Haze by Jimi Hendrix

Seven Nation Army by The White Stripes
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This lesson is a song study of Seven Nation Army by White Stripes

You Give Love a Bad Name by Bon Jovi
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This lesson is a song study of Bon Jovi’s You Give Love a Bad Name

You Give Love a Bad Name (Lead)
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This lesson is a study of the lead guitar solo in You Give Love a Bad Name.

Second Chance by Shinedown
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In this lesson we will learn Second Chance by Shinedown. Acoustic and Electric versions are covered.

Night Moves by Bob Seger
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In this lesson we will study Night Moves by Bob Seger.

What I Got by Sublime
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In this lesson we will study the song What I Got by Sublime.

Sweet Home Alabama by Lynyrd Skynyrd
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In this lesson we will study Sweet Home Alabama by Lynard Skynard.

Dream On by Aerosmith
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In this lesson we will study Dream On by Aerosmith. The song utilizes finger picking techniques as well as regular picking. Solo is included.

Hotel California by The Eagles
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In this lesson we will learn the classic Eagles tune Hotel California. The song uses a finger picking technique and a capo at the 7th fret. TAB for this song can be found in your Tool Box. The Toll Box is located in your Profile.

Hotel California by the Eagles – Solo
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In this lesson we will be learning the iconic outro solo to Hotel California.  The solo is played by both Felder and Walsh trading licks over the B harmonic chord changes.  The solo contains licks in B harmonic minor and is also a great example of targeting notes of the chord changes to create a melodic part.

Stairway To Heaven Part 1 by Led Zeppelin
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In this lesson we will learn the first couple parts of the epic “Stairway To Heaven”. This song requires classical style finger picking. Please study volume 12 lessons on finger picking before attempting this tune.

Stairway To Heaven Part 2 by Led Zeppelin
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In this lesson we will study the remaining parts to Stairway To Heaven.

Every Rose Has Its Thorn by Poison
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In this lesson we will learn the tune Every Rose Has Its Thorn. The original recording is tuned a half step down.

Welcome To The Jungle (Part 1) by Guns N Roses
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In this lesson we will learn the classic GNR song Welcome to the Jungle. Be sure to tune your guitar down a 1/2 step.

Welcome To The Jungle (Part 2) by Guns N Roses
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In this lesson we will be finishing the remaining parts to Welcome To The Jungle.

Welcome To The Jungle (Lead Part 1) by Guns N Roses
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In this lesson we will be taking a close look at the solos of Slash in Welcome To The Jungle. Be sure to tune down a 1/2 step.

Welcome To The Jungle (Lead Part 2) by Guns N Roses
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In this lesson we will be finishing the solo parts to Welcome To The Jungle

Back In Black by AC/DC
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In this lesson we will be learning Back in Black by AC/DC.

Fire by Jimi Hendrix
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In this lesson we will be studying Jimi Hendrix’ “Fire”.

Black Dog
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This lesson is a song study of Black Dog.

Norwegian Wood by the Beatles
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In this lesson we will study the song Norwegian Wood by the Beatles.

In Bloom by Nirvana
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In this lesson we will study the song In Bloom by Nirvana.

Free Fallin’ by Tom Petty
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In this lesson we will be learning Free Fallin’ by Tom Petty. Song requires a capo at the 1st Fret

I Love Rock n Roll by Joan Jett
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In this lesson we will be learning I Love Rock N Roll by Joan Jett. Great song for beginners.

Freebird by Lynard Skynard
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In this lesson we will learn the main chord progressions to Freebird by Lynard Skynard.

Paint It Black by the Rolling Stones
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In this lesson we will learn Paint It Black by the Rolling Stones. The song is in Em originally. However, you will see Keith play it in Dm as well.

Wonderwall by Oasis
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In this lesson we will be learning Wonderwall by Oasis. The song requires a capo at 2nd fret. Fairly easy tune with 4 chords, but does have a more complicated strumming pattern

Learning To Fly by Tom Petty
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IN this lesson we will learn Learning To Fly by Tom Petty. Pretty simple tune requiring just 4 chords

Simple Man by Lynard Skynard / Shinedown
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In this lesson we will learn the tune Simple Man by Lynard Skynard. It has also been done in an acoustic version by Shinedown. The song uses an arpeggiated, three chord progression throughout.

Wonderful Tonight by Eric Clapton (Chords and Tabs)
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In this lesson we will learn the classic Eric Clapton tune Wonderful Tonight. This tune has several guitar parts including a relatively simple lead line that is great for students just learning how to bend strings. The Wonderful Tonight chords are primarily G, C and D major. There are several different layered guitar parts in the recording that arpeggiate the chords.  One of the guitars use open chords and the other uses a form of barre chords.

Interstate Love Song by Stone Temple Pilots
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In this lesson we will be learning the song Interstate Love Song by Stone Temple Pilots. The song is in standard tuning and uses several barre chords.

Fake Plastic Trees by Radiohead
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In this song study lesson we will be learning Fake Plastic Trees by Radiohead. This tune is a fairly tune using mostly open chords.

Cinnamon Girl by Neil Young
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In this lesson we will learn how to play the Neil Young classic. The tune requires you to tune down to drop D tuning.

Sweet Child O Mine by Guns N Roses
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In this lesson we will be learning Slash’s lead parts in the intro and chorus to Sweet Child O Mine.

Sweet Child O Mine by Guns N Roses Part 2
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In this lesson we will learn the remaining rhythm guitar parts to Sweet Child O Mine

Sweet Child O Mine by Guns N Roses Solo Part 1
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In this lesson we will be covering the solos during the breaks between the versus and choruses.

Sweet Child O Mine by Guns N Roses Solo Part 2
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In this lesson we will be covering the main solo by Slash.

Hot Blooded by Foreigner
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This tune is in the key of G and uses mostly power chords. Relatively simple arrangement with a nice little melody line in the intro and breaks.

Let It Be by the Beatles
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Let It Be is a relatively simple song to play along to. The original tune is mainly piano. We have transcribed a finger style version the requires just a few basic chords. You could also strum with a pick.

Via Chicago by Wilco
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Via Chicago is a simple 3 chord tune applying the same progression throughout. The song does require a capo. I have also included a significant lead guitar part that is a recurring theme in the song.

You Shook Me All Night Long Lesson and Tab by ACDC
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You Shook Me All Night Long uses variations of G, C, and D throughout most of the tune. While the versus and choruses are relatively easy to grasp, the lead intro might take some work. You Shook Me All Night Long tab is available in this lesson.

You Shook Me All Night Long (Lead Solo) by AC/DC
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The lead solo of You Shook Me All Night Long is a good solo to learn if you are starting to get into lead playing. It makes use of both pentatonic minor and major.

We Are Going To Be Friends by The White Stripes
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In this lesson we will learn this simple finger style tune using just 4 chords.

Soulshine by The Allman Brothers
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The song is a bluesy tune in Bb using all barre chords. We will study the chord progression to all the parts plus study the intro solo.

Wipe Out by Surfaris
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Learn the classic surf tune Wipe Out. The structure of the song follows a standard 12 bar blues style arrangement using a single note riff. Great tune to practice alternating picking technique.

Buddy Holly by Weezer
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This lesson covers the main guitar parts to Weezer’s Buddy Holly. The song primarily uses power chords. The original recording is tuned down a half step. The solo is studied in another lesson

Buddy Holly by Weezer (Lead Guitar Solo)
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In this lesson we will examine the solo to Buddy Holly.

What I Like About You by the Romantics
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In this lesson we will be studying the Romantics classic What I Like About You. The song uses the same chord progression throughout minus the Bridge. The intro is built upon a variation of the main chord progression applying higher register chord voicings and extensions. While the intro is a bit complicated, it can easily be adapted for simple open chords and acoustic guitar.

Jailhouse Rock by Elvis Presley
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This is a great 3 chord rock n roll tune. The song follows a I-IV-V progression with a little twist in the verses. The original recording is in Eb. It is taught here in standard tuning in key of E

Daytripper by The Beatles
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In this lesson learn how to play Daytripper by the Beatles.  The majority of the song is based around a very recognizable guitar riff in the key of E.  The riff is played throughout the verses and barre chords are played throughout the chorus.

Mississippi Queen by Mountain
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In this lesson we will be learning the main guitar riffs to the Mountain classic Mississippi Queen.  Guitarist Leslie West makes great use of the the pentatonic minor scale to formulate these recognizable riffs. The arrangement follows a I-IV-V chord pattern.

Mississippi Queen Lead Parts
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In this lesson we will study all the lead parts and solos to Mississippi Queen.  Leslie West uses both pentatonic major and minor over these bluesy rock power chord changes. The song is in the key of E so the lead is based in E pentatonic.

Carry On Wayward Son by Kansas Part 1
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This classic rock tune has a ton of great riffs.  Mostly based out of A pentatonic minor, the riffs are relatively easy to grasp.  It contains a lot of parts so we divided the lesson into 3 parts.

Carry On Wayward Son by Kansas Part 2
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Description

This classic rock tune has a ton of great riffs.  Mostly based out of A pentatonic minor, the riffs are relatively easy to grasp.  It contains a lot of parts so we divided the lesson into 3 parts.

Carry On Wayward Son by Kansas Part 3
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Description

This classic rock tune has a ton of great riffs.  Mostly based out of A pentatonic minor, the riffs are relatively easy to grasp.  It contains a lot of parts so we divided the lesson into 3 parts.

Rock N Roll All Nite by Kiss
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Rock N Roll All Nite is a pretty simple tune using primarily power chords.  The song is tuned a 1/2 step down.

Gloria by Them
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Easy tune using just 3 chords throughout.  E, A, and D.  The challenge here is the rhythm and the chord riff coming out of the chorus.

All Right Now by Free
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In this lesson learn how to play the classic All Right Now by the band Free. The lesson covers all the main guitar parts and a short piece of the guitar solo before the bridge.

Last Dance With Mary Jane by Tom Petty
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Description

Last Dance With Mary Jane is an easy tune to mimic using just a handful of open chords. Can easily be played on electric and acoustic. However, to learn it exactly as recorded is a little more difficult. There are some intricacies in the intro that can take some time to grasp.

American Idiot by Green Day
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In this lesson we will learn American Idiot by Green Day. We will cover all the parts including the solo. Rhythm parts use all power chords

Under the Bridge by Red Hot Chili Peppers
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Description

This tune has a challenging intro, great use of barre chords and different voicings. It is a good example of embellishing within the chord. To get the tone of the original recording use your neck pickup, especially on a Fender.

A Hard Days Night by the Beatles
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Great song for electric or acoustic players. Easy open chord progression using G, C, F, Bm, Em, and D.

Rebel Rebel by David Bowie
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Description

This song revolves mostly around a main riff built around a D and E major chord.  Other chords required are A and Bm.

Peaceful Easy Feeling by The Eagles
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An easy tune in the key of E using the chords E, A, B, F#m.  The intro does make use of an Esus4 chord.  Great for acoustic and electric

Blue On Black by Kenny Wayne Shepherd
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In this lesson we delve into Kenny Wayne Shepherd’s Blue On Black, an acoustic blues rock tune from the late 90’s.

Funk #49 by The James Gang
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This classic rock hit has one of the most recognizable riffs in music.  The song is built primarily around this riff and alternating with a descending pentatonic riff for the B sections.

Suzie Q by Creedence Clearwater Revival
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Learn this blues rock tune in the key of E.  The song incorporates an E blues riff using pentatonic minor scale and a few major barre chords.

Creep by Radiohead
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Description

Learn this easy 4 chord acoustic version of Creep by Radiohead.

Smells Like Teen Spirit by Nirvana
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Description

Smells Like Teen Spirit uses mostly power chords with a rhythmic dead note (scratches) technique.  The majority of the song is simple and the solo part is great for students learning lead.

Over The Hills And Far Away by Led Zeppelin (Part 1)
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In this lesson we will be covering the Intro and 1st Verse. This part of the original recording is played on acoustic guitar but can also be played on electric.

Over The Hills And Far Away by Led Zeppelin (Part 2)
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In this lesson we will be completing the study of Over The Hills And Far Away.

I’ll Fight by Wilco
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Description

I’ll Fight by Wilco is a fairly simple song to play with the exception of the melodic intro.  The song is a folk style acoustic tune using a capo on the 3rd fret.  The intro contains a melody within the strumming of the chord progression. Chord shapes used are Am, C, Dm, Em, F, and G

Summer Of 69 by Bryan Adams
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Description

Summer of 69 by Bryan Adams uses mainly 4 basic chords throughout the song.  The chords used are A, D, G, and Bm.  For the bridge we use a handful of power chords.  The song uses a palm muting technique through the versus while accenting certain beats in the bar with a chord stab.  This creates a nice rock groove. Use the Summer of 69 tab to help you with the lesson.

Wanted Dead Or Alive by Bon Jovi
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Description

In this lesson we will learn all the main acoustic parts to Wanted Dead or Alive by Bon Jovi.  This song has a classic, very recognizable intro that is challenging and fun to play.  The song is based in the key of D and uses just 4 simple chords, G, Cadd9, D, and F.

Lonely Boy by Black Keys
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Description

Learn Lonely Boy by Black Keys

Panama by Van Halen (Part 1)
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Description

In this lesson we will study the intro, verse, pre chorus, and chorus to Panama by Van Halen.  Please note that you must tune down a 1/2 step to be in tune with the lesson and original recording

Panama Solo (Part 2)
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In this lesson we will take a close look at the solo for Panama note for note.  Remember to tune your guitar down 1/2 step.

Panama Interlude (Part 3)
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In this lesson we will study the Interlude (bridge) to Panama. Remember to tune down 1/2 step.

Son of a Preacher Man by Dusty Springfield
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Description

Easy 4 chord tune with an extremely recognizable intro lick.  Based in the key of E

How You Remind Me by Nickelback
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Description

Learn how to play How You Remind Me by Nickelback. The song uses primarily power chords and drop D tuning

Long Cool Woman In A Black Dress by The Hollies
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Description

Long Cool Woman features a very distinct and recognizable intro guitar lick, followed by use of a very common blues like shuffle pattern.

Yesterday by The Beatles
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In this lesson we will be studying Yesterday by The Beatles.  The song was performed by McCartney in a fingerstyle fashion.  The guitar needs to be tuned down a whole step to be in tune with the original recording.

Amie by Pure Prairie League
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Description

Great acoustic tune with cool lead intro solo in A Pentatonic major.  Mostly uses open chords until the outro which requires some practice.

Shine by Collective Soul
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Description

This tune requires you to tune down a 1/2 step plus tuning the low E string down another whole step to a C#. The intro and verse use a melody pedal tone line using the G and D string. The rest of the song is mainly power chords.

All Day and All of the Night by the Kinks
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Great tune for those beginners learning how to play power chords.  The song uses nothing but power chords in this riff based, classic Kinks tune.

Cold Cold Cold by Cage The Elephant
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In this lesson we will be learning all the parts to Cold Cold Cold by Cage The Elephant, including the solo.  Need to know some basic barre chords for this one.

Spoonman by Soundgarden
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In this lesson we will be recognizing the recent passing of Chris Cornell and learning Spoonman by Soundgarden.  The song requires Drop D tuning.  It consists of power chords and a few single note riffs.  Great song that’s fun to play.

Pretty Woman by Roy Orbison
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Description

Learn the iconic Roy Orbison song and its very recognizable opening riff. The song is based in A and contains mostly simple open chords. You will need to be able to play F#m barre chord.

Wind Cries Mary by Jimi Hendrix
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Description

Wind Cries Mary serves as a good study of Jimi’s chordal techniques and major pentatonic traits. Throughout the versus he uses various voicings of C, Bb, and F with interconnected pentatonic licks. The arrangement is basically one section or verse repeated 4 times only changing during the solo which will be covered in part 2. The hardest part about this song is the use of the thumb to play the root note of the major chords.

Wind Cries Mary by Jimi Hendrix (Part 2)
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In this lesson we will cover the solo and the outro.

Cassidy By The Grateful Dead
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In this lesson we will cover the chord progression and voicing style of Bob Weir. We will also discuss ideas for soloing over the jam sections. All parts are covered based on the “Reckoning” version.

Kokomo by The Beach Boys
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Description

Kokomo is written in the key of C and uses 8 chords. Most of the chords are open chords. The verse makes use of a falling chromatic line within the chords chosen that creates this “beachy” mood. Very genius arrangement!

She Talks To Angels by The Black Crowes
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Description

She Talks To Angels is played with an open E tuning. The song incorporates several melodic lines in its intro. This is the key to getting the sound. The rest of the song is mainly chords.

Tequila Sunrise by The Eagles
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Learn Tequila Sunrise by the Eagles. The song uses mostly Open chords and is written in the key of G. Chords used are G, Am, Em, C, B7, E7, and A7.  The challenging part about this tune is getting the strumming pattern in the intro.

Don’t Want You No More by The Allman Brothers Band
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An instrumental in the Key of C minor.  The tune is full of pentatonic minor guitar runs and uses C Dorian/ Pentatonic minor for jamming over the solo sections.  In this lesson we will cover all the melody parts note for note.

Its Not My Cross To Bear by The Allman Brothers
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It’s Not My Cross To Bear is the segue from the instrumental Don’t Want You No More.  Its a blues tune with some different changes than the typical 12 bar blues format. We have the use of the minor IV chord in the verse and a I-VI-II-V change at the end of the progression.  The song also applies an interesting arpeggio line with a descending bass line.

Dust in The Wind by Kansas (Part 1)
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In this lesson we will learn the intro, verse, and chorus to this classic fingerstyle tune. The song uses whats known as a Travis picking style, alternating bass notes with your thumb.

Dust in The Wind by Kansas (Part 2)
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In this lesson we will be finishing up our study of Dust in The Wind with the Bridge and Outro parts.

Red Barchetta by Rush (Part 1)
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In this Red Barchetta guitar lesson we will study the guitar style and all the parts of this Alex Lifeson masterpiece.  Lifeson incorporates so many guitar techniques in this tune including harmonics, arpeggio chords, palm muting, and his signature rhythm playing. The song is long and complicated so we will be releasing it in several parts, covering everything including the solo.

Red Barchetta by Rush (Part 2)
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In this lesson we will continue our study of Red Barchetta covering the Pre Chorus and Chorus parts.

Red Barchetta by Rush (Part 3)
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In this lesson we will be finishing up our study of Red Barchetta by Rush.  We will be covering the bridge, solo, and outro parts of the song. The solo is played using mainly A mixolydian but also outlining the chords underneath.  A great study of a masterful solo.

You May Be Right by Billy Joel
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In this lesson we will be studying the rhythm and lead parts to You May Be Right by Billy Joel.  This song has a lot of different stuff  including power chords, barre chords, more complicated rhythms, and even a cool blues riff in the chorus.  The solo begins with a common bluesy A pentatonic riff and then outlines the chord progression with some tasty country bends and holds.

Beast of Burden by The Rolling Stones
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In this lesson we will be studying the Rolling Stones tune Beast of Burden. This song is a great example of how Keith Richards voices chords in standard tuning.  Rarely does he play a full barre chord, but instead uses bits and inversions to create classic riffs we all recognize.  These unique chord voicings along with the use of hammer-ons within the chords, are the secret to his overall playing style.  At the end of the lesson I will also show you how to improvise, in general, over the chord changes.

Bohemian Rhapsody by Queen (Part 1)
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In this lesson we will start our study of the epic song by Queen, Bohemian Rhapsody. We will be covering the entire tune, but in this lesson, specifically, we will be covering the intro and verse.  On the original recording this is all played on piano, so we will be emulating the piano part on guitar using a fingerstyle method.

Bohemian Rhapsody by Queen (Part 2)
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In this lesson we will be covering the electric guitar part that comes in half way through the 2nd verse.  It also covers the iconic guitar solo that leads into the operatic middle section.

Bohemian Rhapsody by Queen (Part 3)
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In this lesson we will be covering the operatic bridge section of this classic Queen song. The part is pretty complicated because of trying to mimic the piano part that makes this section.  The best way to attack this is with a hybrid picking method so you can use your fingers and pick.

Bohemian Rhapsody by Queen (Part 4)
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In this lesson we will be finishing up our study on Bohemian Rhapsody with the rockin’, riff heavy outro.

Maggie May by Rod Stewart
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In this lesson we will be learning a simple version of Rod Stewart’s Maggie May on acoustic guitar.  The chords used are D, A, G, Em, F#m.  I will show you a few options on how to play the F#m chord if you have trouble playing full barre chords.

My Sweet Lord by George Harrison
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My Sweet Lord by George Harrison is a mostly acoustic song played with a capo at the 2nd fret.  The song is made up of two or three parts with a key change and the same strum pattern throughout.  We will be studying not only the acoustic part but the electric slide lead parts as well.

Forty Four Blues by Eric Clapton / Howlin Wolf
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In this lesson we will be learning the blues classic Forty Four Blues. The tune has been done by various artists but in this lesson we will be closely following the Eric Clapton version. It basically follows a 12 bar blues pattern but does have some interesting additional bars. Trills, bends, and other articulations make it a great piece to study for those into the Blues genre.

Chevrolet by Taj Mahal
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In this lesson we will be learning the Blues classic Chevrolet by Taj Mahal.  The song consists mainly of a blues riff in E pentatonic minor.

Mustang Sally by Wilson Pickett
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Mustang Sally is classic R&B/ Blues tune by Wilson Pickett. The song is a I-IV-V chord progression in the key of C. There are 2 guitar parts on the original recording, a lead and a rhythm part. We will be covering both of them.

Hoochie Coochie Man by Muddy Waters
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In this lesson we will be learning the blues classic Hoochie Coochie Man by Muddy Waters. The tune is in 12/8 time, in the key of A, and is built around a signature blues riff over the I chord. The riff is followed by typical blues changes using dominant 9 chords.

No Particular Place To Go by Chuck Berry
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This lesson is a song study of No Particular Place To Go by Chuck Berry.

Smokestack Lightning by Howlin Wolf
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This lesson is a song study of Howlin Wolf’s classic blues tune Smokestack Lightning.

Cold Shot by Stevie Ray Vaughan
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This lesson is a song study of Cold Shot by Stevie Ray Vaughan. The song is a good example of blues in a minor key.

Sweet Home Chicago
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This lesson is a song study of the Blue’s classic Sweet Home Chicago. The song was originally done by Robert Johnson. Since then it has been recorded and performed by many artists.

Catfish Blues by Muddy Waters
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This lesson is a song study of Catfish Blues by Muddy Waters.

Crossroads by Cream
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This lesson covers the classic Crossroads by Eric Clapton and Cream. The song is a 12 bar blues form in the key of A. Originally written and recorded by Robert Johnson.

Mary Had A Little Lamb by Stevie Ray Vaughan
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In this lesson we will learn the bluesy SRV song Mary Had A Little Lamb. The song is played in a 1/2 step down tuning.

Johnny B. Goode by Chuck Berry
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Learn this classic Chuck Berry tune written with a 12 bar blues format in the key of Bb. In this lesson we are going to study the intro, versus, and choruses. In another lesson we will tackle the complete solo. This is a must learn for any aspiring blues guitar player.

Johnny B. Goode Solo by Chuck Berry
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In this lesson we will study the solo to Johnny B. Goode note for note.

Born Under A Bad Sign by Albert King
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This is a classic blues tune played, originally, in the key of Db.  Simple pentatonic blues riff on the I chord and goes to the IV and V chord.  A little different arrangement from the standard 12 bar blues form.

Stormy Monday by The Allman Brothers
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In this lesson we will be studying the classic T-Bone Walker blues tune Stormy Monday in the style of the Allman Brothers Band. While it is a 12 bar blues, Stormy Monday takes a different turn in bar 7 with some jazzy min7 chord changes. In this version, the guitar uses interesting dom 9 voicings and licks to carry the harmonic structure.

Stormy Monday (Duane Solo Part 1)
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In this lesson we will be studying the first half of Duane Allman’s soulful lead in Stormy Monday. Be familiar with G Pentatonic major when approaching this solo.

Stormy Monday (Duane Solo Part 2)
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In this lesson we will be studying the second half of Duane Allman’s soulful lead in Stormy Monday. Be familiar with G Pentatonic major when approaching this solo.

She Caught The Katy by Taj Mahal
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This is not your typical 12 bar blues form. The song actually follows a 16 bar form for the versus. The bridge takes us to a different place applying a bVII chord and the verse contains a diminished 7, some interesting changes for a blues tune.

Memphis by Lonnie Mack
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In this lesson we will be learning the instrumental Memphis by Lonnie Mack. It is a blues tune in the key of G.  We will be covering the chords and melody lead lines. You should be familiar with Pentatonic minor to grasp the melody lead.

Jesus Take The Wheel by Carrie Underwood
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In this lesson we will be learning Jesus Take The Wheel by Carrie Underwood.  The song is relatively simple from and arrangement and strumming perspective.  However, there is the use of some slash and barre chords along with melodic lines in the D chord before the chorus.

Mamas Don’t Let Your Babies Grow Up To Be Cowboys by Willie Nelson and Waylon Jennings
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This classic country walz consists of just 3 chords, the I, IV, and V played in two different keys. The song starts in the key of D and halfway through shifts to the key of E. Chords needed are D, G, A7, E A, and B7. We will also be applying an alternating bass line to the progression.

Old Town Road by Lil Nas X featuring Billy Ray Cyrus
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In this lesson we will be learning Old Town Road. For beginners I would suggest tuning down 1/2 step. This will allow you to play along with the original recording while using open chords. The song consists of just 4 chords – A, C, G, F.

Meant To Be by Florida Georgia Line and Bebe Rexha
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This tune by Florida Georgia Line and Bebe Rexha is a pretty simple tune with 5 chords. The song is played, on the original recording, with a capo on the 3rd fret. Chords used are G, Am, Em, C, and G/F#.

Beautiful Crazy by Luke Combs
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The song Beautiful Crazy by Luke Combs is played with a capo at the 4th fret and uses 7 chords. The chord shapes needed are G, D/F#, Em7, Dadd9, C, Am7, and C/B. The strumming pattern is a common one and stays consistent throughout.

Tennessee Whiskey (Solo)
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In this lesson we will be studying the guitar solo in Tennessee Whiskey by Christ Stapleton. The solo consists of mostly A pentatonic major and B pentatonic minor licks. Notice how the solo highlights the notes of the chords being played underneath.

Tennessee Stud by Doc Watson
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In this lesson we will study Tennessee Stud as performed by Doc Watson. The tune has a great bluegrass type intro that repeats throughout the song. It applies many of the basic bluegrass principles we have discussed in the Bluegrass Genre section. The chords used are not difficult, however the timing and arrangement are a little tricky. Best to learn a section at a time.

Man of Constant Sorrow
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Learn this bluesy bluegrass tune from the movie Brother Where Art Thou. The tune requires Drop D tuning and a capo on the 3rd fret. Basic chords include D, G, and A. The song applies a bluesy line that recurs throughout the tune.

Walk The Line by Johnny Cash
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This lesson is a song study of Walk The Line by Johnny Cash.

Six Days On The Road by Dave Dudley
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This lesson is a song study of the classic country tune Six Days on the Road.

I’m Gonna Miss Her by Brad Paisley
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This lesson is a song study of I’m Gonna Miss Her by Brad Paisley. This song is based in the key of F# and requires an alternate tuning of a 1/2 step down.

Stupid Boy by Keith Urban
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This lesson is a song study of Keith Urban’s Stupid Boy. The song requires Drop D tuning and capo at the 1st fret.

Folsom Prison Blues by Johnny Cash
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In this lesson we will study Folsom Prison Blues by Johnny Cash. The lesson includes both the acoustic and electric parts. The solo is also taught.

Fifteen by Taylor Swift
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In this lesson we will study the song Fifteen by Taylor Swift. Good tune for beginners. Requires being able to play open chords.

Boys Round Here by Blake Shelton
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In this song study lesson we will learn the country tune Boys Round Here by Blake Shelton.

If I Die Young by The Band Perry
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In this lesson we will learn If I Die Young by The Band Perry

Chicken Fried (Acoustic) by Zac Brown Band
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In this lesson we will be studying the acoustic parts to Chicken Fried by the Zac Brown Band. Tune down 1/2 step to be in tune with the original recording. The song intro requires difficult Travis picking techniques. Recommended study of volume 12 lessons on finger picking. The rest of the tune is basic open chords.

Chicken Fried (Electric) by Zac Brown Band
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In this lesson we will learn the electric guitar parts to Chicken Fried by the Zac Brown Band. It requires basic open chords.

Stay by Sugarland
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In this lesson we will be learning Stay by Sugarland.

Drink A Beer by Luke Bryan
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In this lesson we will be Learning Drink A Beer by Luke Bryan. This tune require a capo at the first fret.

Love Sick Blues by Hank Williams
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In this lesson we will be learning Lovesick Blues by Hank Williams. This tune uses mostly open chords, but does have an interesting arrangement and was written with a 2/2 time signature.

When You Say Nothing At All by Allison Kraus
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In this lesson we will be learning When You Say Nothing At All by Allison Kraus. Great tune for beginner finger picking. Requires a capo at the first fret

You and Tequila by Kenny Chesney (chords and tab)
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You and Tequila is a relatively simple tune with mainly open chords based in the key of G. Tune down 1/2 step to be in tune with the original recording.  Kenny Chesney uses the chords G, Csus2, G/B, D, Bm, and A7 to build the chord progressions in the song.

Cruise by Florida Georgia Line
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In this lesson we will learn the Florida Georgia Line tune Cruise. The song requires a capo and consists of the same 4 chord progression throughout. Easy tune if you know your open chords. We have also provided the intro lead guitar part.

Neon Light by Blake Shelton
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In this lesson we will take a look at Neon Light by Blake Shelton. This song is unique in that harmonically, it uses just one chord. Different riffs make the sections different. We can also apply an easy chicken pickin (hybrid picking) technique to the main riff.

Picture by Kid Rock and Sheryl Crow
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In this lesson we will be learning Picture by Kid Rock and Sheryl Crow. This is an easy tune using just a few open chords. Great tune for beginners.

Margaritaville by Jimmy Buffet
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In this lesson we will be learning Margaritaville by Jimmy Buffet. Easy song for beginners using only 3 open chords.

You Belong With Me by Taylor Swift
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Learn how to play this tune on acoustic guitar with a capo at the 4th fret. The tune is fairly simple using just 4 chords throughout.

Always On My Mind chords by Willie Nelson
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In this lesson we will be studying Always On My Mind by Willie Nelson.  The original recording is mainly piano so we have transposed it for guitar in a fingerstyle arrangement. Always On My Mind chords include open chords, barre chords and some interesting slash chords.

Buy Me a Boat by Chris Jansen
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In this lesson we will be studying the song Buy Me a Boat.  The song uses just 3 chords, but does have some cool country style licks.  The guitar is tuned to drop D tuning in the original recording. We will cover all the licks in drop D, but for beginners you could easily strum along using just D, G, and A in standard tuning.

Friends In Low Places by Garth Brooks
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In this lesson we will be learning the acoustic parts to this country classic. It requires the use of a capo at the 2nd fret. Chords used are G, Abdim7, Am, D, and Cm.

Friends In Low Places by Garth Brooks (Electric)
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In this lesson we will study the electric guitar parts and the solo. The electric guitar is in standard tuning and does not use a capo like the acoustic.

Die A Happy Man by Thomas Rhett
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Die a Happy Man by Thomas Rhett is played in the key of D. Chords used are D, G, A, Bm, Gm. There are a few barre chords used and a soulful part in the verse using first inversion D/F# chord. Taught on electric but can be easily played on acoustic as well.

Mama Tried by Merle Haggard
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In this lesson we will learn the classic Merle Haggard tune Mama Tried.  Just 4 chords needed for this one. D, G, A, and Bm.  The intro is the most challenging part using a hybrid picking technique to create a D major based arpeggio.

Long Trip Alone by Dierks Bently
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Long Trip Alone is a fairly easy country tune by Dierks Bently.  It utilizes mainly open chords.  The song starts with a melodic line within a G major chord that takes a little fingering practice.  That melodic theme reoccurs throughout the tune.

Tennessee Whiskey by Chris Stapleton
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Easy 2 chord song with a simple lead intro.  You need to know A major and B minor for this tune.

Boot Scootin Boogie by Brooks and Dunn
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Description

Boot Scootin Boogie is a 3 chord country blues boogie played in the key of E. The guitar part consists of a bluesy shuffle riff played over each of the 3 chords E7, A7, and B7. You could also play this song on acoustic, strumming along with the 3 main chords.

Hurt by Johnny Cash
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In this lesson we will be learning Hurt by Johnny Cash.  The tune consists of mostly open chords including Am, C, D, Dsus2, G, and F.  The verse has a arpeggio picking pattern while the chorus goes to a simple 8th note up and down strumming pattern.  Pretty easy tune and good for beginners, but also fun for any level player.

American Kids by Kenny Chesney
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In this lesson we will be studying American Kids by Kenny Chesney.  The song is comprised of basically just 4 chords, C, G, Em, Bm.  The rhythm in the verse is a little tricky but super fun to play once you lock it in.  We will be covering all the parts of the song including the acoustic guitar solo.

Without You by Kid Laroi
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In this lesson we will be learning Without You by Kid Laroi. The song has a simple arrangement and consists of just 5 basic chords.  They are Am, Fmaj7, C, G and E7.  Good song for those beginners learning their open chords and F chord.

Watermelon Sugar by Harry Styles
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In this lesson on Watermelon Sugar by Harry Styles we will be focusing on the challenging rhythm aspect. While the song is comprised of the same four chord harmonic structure throughout, it is the rhythm that drives the tune. The four chords used are Dm7, Am, C, and G.

Girls Just Want To Have Fun by Cyndi Lauper
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In this lesson we will be learning Girls Just Want To Have Fun by Cyndi Lauper.  The lesson is taught on acoustic guitar but could easily be played on either acoustic or electric.  The most challenging part is the melodic chordal intro theme.  Other than the intro, it is mainly open chord strumming.  Remember to tune down a half step to be in tune with the original recording.

Fast Car by Tracy Chapman
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In this lesson we will be learning Fast Car by Tracy Chapman. The song, played on acoustic guitar, is mad up of 2 parts.  The majority of the song is played fingerstyle using mostly open chords.  The bridge consists of open chords with a simple strumming pattern

Dance Money by Tones and I
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In this lesson we will be learning Dance Monkey by Tones and I. The song consists of 4 chords with capo at the 2nd fret. The chords are Em, C, D, and Bm. The chords are played in the same progression throughout the entire tune. Since there are no noticeable guitar parts on the recording we have a lot of latitude to interpret the song on guitar.

The Lazy Song by Bruno Mars
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The Lazy Song by Bruno Mars is a relatively simple tune with a reggae feel.  With a reggae feel you will be playing on the up beats rather than the downbeats.  From an arrangement standpoint, pretty easy with 3 parts mad mostly of a I-IV-V progression.  The challenging part is the key. Being in the key of B we have all barre chords.

Memories by Maroon 5
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In this lesson we will be learning Memories by Maroon 5. The original recording was played on electric piano and we have transcribed this into a fingerstyle guitar part. The chords shapes used are G, Em, D, Bm, and C with a capo on the 4th fret.

Sunflower by Post Malone
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In this lesson we will be learning Sunflower by Post Malone. Great song for beginners with a simple chord progression and strumming pattern. Just 3 chords in this one and a great way to practicing switching on the beat.

Shotgun by George Ezra
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Description

Shotgun by George Ezra is a simple 4 chord song with the same arrangement throughout. The song requires the chord shapes C, F, Am, and G played with a capo at the fifth fret.

Because I Had You by Shawn Mendes
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Because I Had You by Shawn Mendes is a pop tune in the key of Em. It is originally played fingerstyle on electric guitar but sounds good on acoustic as well. The chords used are Em, D, C, G, and Bm, all played with a barre chord shape.

Victoria by John Mayer
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In this lesson we will be learning Victoria by John Mayer. We will be covering the fingerstyle parts along with the strumming that comes later. The song contains some interesting chords in the form of Maj and min 7ths. We will also be covering the solo note for note.

High Hopes by Panic at the Disco
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High Hopes by Panic at the Disco is a pretty simple tune with just 2 parts and a fairly easy strum pattern. You will need a capo at the 5th fret to play with the original recording. The chords used are F, C, Am, G, Em, and E7.

Shallow (From A Star Is Born)
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In this lesson we are going to learn the song Shallow as performed by Lady Gaga and Bradley Cooper in the movie A Star Is Born. The song uses a fingerstyle method throughout. The fingerstyle part is pretty crucial in the verse. Later in the song a strumming pattern can be applied. We will cover both a fingerstyle and strumming way of approaching the song.

You Were Meant For Me by Jewel
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In this song lesson, You Were Meant For Me by Jewel, we will be using fingerstyle in the verse and strumming in the rest of the parts. It is played in the key of G. Chords used are Cadd9, C, G/B, G, D, Em, Bm, and Am7

Wild Ones by Flo Rida
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In this lesson we will study the chord progression to Wild Ones by Flo Rida

Somebody I Used To Know
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In this lesson we will learn Somebody I Used To Know by GOTYE.

We Are Young by Fun
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In this lesson we will learn the the song We Are Young by Fun.

Forget You by Cee-Lo
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In this lesson we will do a song study of the tune Forget You by Cee-Lo.

Starships by Nicki Minaj
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In this lesson we will study the chord progression and guitar parts to Starships by Nicki Minaj.

Home by Phillip Phillips
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In this lesson we will study Home by Phillip Phillips.

No Such Thing by John Mayer
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This lesson is a song study of John Mayer’s “No Such Thing”

What Makes You Beautiful by One Direction
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This is a song study of What Makes You Beautiful by One Direction

Payphone by Maroon 5
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This is a song study of Payphone by Maroon 5

Brave by Sara Bareilles
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In this lesson we will study Brave by Sara Bareilles

Demons by Imagine Dragons
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In this lesson we will learn Demons by Imagine Dragons.

When I Was Your Man by Bruno Mars
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In this lesson we will learn When I Was Your Man by Bruno Mars.

Im Yours by Jason Mraz
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In this lesson we will learn the Jason Mraz tune I’m Yours. This song requires a capo on the 2nd fret.

Angel by Jack Johnson
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In this lesson we will be learning Angel by Jack Johnson. Great tune for beginners. Uses mainly open chords.

Let Her Go by Passenger (Chords and Tab)
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In this lesson we will be studying the song Let Her Go by Passenger. This piece includes a fingerstyle intro with a capo at the 7th fret. Let Her Go chords are relatively basic chords with some melodic embellishments throughout.  For the intro, a fingerstyle approach is used.  The rest of the song uses strumming of these chords.

A Team by Ed Sheeran
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In this lesson we will be learning A Team by Ed Sheeran. This song will require a capo at the 2nd fret

Roar by Katy Perry
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In this lesson we will learn the Katy Perry song Roar. Capo required for this song.

All of Me by John Legend
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In this lesson we will be arranging the piano based John Legend tune All of Me for acoustic guitar. Requires a capo at the 1st fret.

Counting Stars by One Republic
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In this lesson we will be learning Counting Stars by One Republic. Pretty simple tune. Does require a capo

Hey There Delilah by the Plain White T’s
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In this lesson I will teach how to play Hey There Delilah. Great tune for finger pickers.

Your Song by Ellie Goulding
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In this lesson we will learn Ellie Goulding’s version of the classic Elton John tune “Your Song”. Capo at 3rd fret.

Ants Marching by Dave Matthews
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In this lesson we will study Ants Marching by Dave Matthews

Rude by Magic!
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In this lesson we will be learning Rude by Magic! This is a reggae style tune using barre chords and related barre chord voicings.

Wake Me Up by Avicii
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This tune has a simple 4 chord progression using all open chords. The challenging part of this song is the rhythm. You will need to know C, F, Am, G, and E

Happy by Pharrell Williams
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In this lesson we will be learning Happy by Pharrell Williams. The tune consists of just 2 parts. A bluesy pentatonic minor lick fills the verses and the chorus contains a Cmaj7, Bm, and E7 chord. The song does require a capo to be in tune with the original recording.

Riptide by Vance Joy
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This is a relatively simple tune using 3 or 4 open chords. The trick here is getting the strum pattern down.

I’m Not The Only One by Sam Smith
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In this lesson we will be learning I’m Not The Only One by Sam Smith.

Use Somebody by Kings of Leon
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Description

Learn how to play Use Somebody by Kings of Leon. The song is relatively easy with just a few parts and an easy guitar solo.

Thinking Out Loud Chords
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In this free guitar lesson we will be learning Thinking Out Loud by Ed Sheeran. This popular tune is a great song for beginners. This lesson also includes a tab sheet that you can download to follow along with the video. Thinking Out Loud chords are A, D, Em, Bm, and G.  There are also A7 and D/F# used in the song. In the verse of the song Ed uses a quick hammer on lick over the A chord going into the D chord.  This short melodic lick leads us back the the beginning of the phrase.

All About That Bass by Meghan Trainor
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In this lesson we will be learning All About That Bass by Meghan Trainor. This is a basic 3 chord tune.

Take Me To Church by Hozier
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In this lesson we will study the chord progression and transpose for guitar.

Party in the USA by Miley Cyrus
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Description

Party in the USA by Miley Cyrus begins with an R&B like chord based riff with an interesting use of rhythmic dead notes. The rest of the tune, other than the bridge is based off of the same chord progression. This tune, while played on an electric could easily be adapted to play on an acoustic with basic barre chords.

Gravity by John Mayer
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In this lesson we will study Gravity by John Mayer. There are just 2 parts to this soulful tune that used Hendrix style major chord voicings and maj7 chords in the choruses.

Gravity Solo Lesson – John Mayer
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In this lesson we will be learning the solo and lead parts to Gravity by John Mayer.  The song is in G and follows a I-IV chord progression.  The lead parts are comprised of mostly G pentatonic major licks.  Mayer’s use of articulations such as hammer ons and slides makes the solo interesting, not to mention his masterful use of melodic phrasing.  This is a great solo to study for those interested in playing lead guitar and improvising.

Pink Panther Theme
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In this lesson we will study the melody to the Pink Panther theme song.

Renegades by X Ambassadors
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In this lesson we will learn the song Renegades.  This is an easy 4 chord song with the same arrangement throughout.  The intro applies a nice hybrid picking technique.  The chords used are Bm, D, A, and G

More Than Words by Extreme Part 1
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This finger style tune by Extreme requires you to tune down a half step to be in tune with the original recording.

More Than Words by Extreme Part 2
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This finger style tune by Extreme requires you to tune down a half step to be in tune with the original recording.

Love Yourself by Justin Bieber
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Check out this lesson of Love Yourself.  Good song for electric or acoustic.

Stitches by Shawn Mendes
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In this lesson we will learn the smash pop hit Stitches. The tune requires a capo and some finger style skill. It uses 4 chords throughout – Am, G, C, and F. Just 3 sections to learn for the arrangement.

Ex’s and Oh’s by Elle King
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Ex’s & Oh’s is an uptempo pop-rock song that blends elements of alternative rock, blues rock, and rockabilly. Chords needed for this tune include Em, B7, G, D, C, and A.

Castle On The Hill by Ed Sheeran
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Castle On The Hill by Ed Sheeran is a fairy easy 4 chord Pop tune.  The trick here is getting the accented rhythm down.

Lips Are Moving by Meghan Trainor
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Learn how to play this easy 3 chord pop tune.  Chords used are G, C, and Am

Malibu by Miley Cyrus
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We will be learning an acoustic fingerstyle version of this Miley Cyrus tune.  The song requires a capo at the first fret and knowledge of some open chords and a Bm barre chord.

Feel It Still by Portugal The Man
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In this lesson we are going to learn all the parts to Feel It Still by Portugal The Man.

Say You Won’t Let Go by James Arthur
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Description

This tune uses just 4 chords – G, D, Em7, and C.  You will also need a capo at the 3rd fret to be in tune with the record.  The song is played fingerstyle and uses basically the same arrangement throughout the entire tune.

Happier by Ed Sheeran
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Description

This song is easy in respect to the chords used and the arrangement. Just need to know Am7, F, and C. However, there are some embellishments that make it sound more interesting and give it that Ed Sheeran sound.

Daughters by John Mayer
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Great acoustic tune! Written with the use of interesting extended and altered chords in classic John Mayer fashion. The chords used in this song are complex, especially in the bridge. If you are for a challenge and increasing your chord knowledge, this is a good song for you to study.

Sweet Creature by Harry Styles
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Sweet Creature is written in the key of G and incorporates finger style guitar. The song contains this heavy acoustic guitar part making it a great song to learn for those interested in finger style acoustic guitar.

Lose Yourself by Eminem
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Its not often that you hear guitar as the main instrument in the rap genre, but this one is an exception. The power chord riff sets the mood and groove for the vibe of the song. The song is played in Dm and implies 3 different chords from the D power chord position.

Perfect by Ed Sheeran
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Perfect by Ed Sheeran is played with a capo at the first fret and uses G, Csus, Em, and D for most of the tune.  The part is played fingerstyle and incorporates some challenging arpeggiated parts in the breaks.  We will also be covering the solo.

Budapest by George Ezra
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In this lesson we will be studying George Ezra’s Budapest.  The song is played on acoustic guitar tuned down a whole step.  The song is best played fingerstyle with the thumb playing the bass notes.  The chords used are simple open chords G, C, and D.  The challenge here is getting the groove right.

Strong Enough by Sheryl Crow
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In this lesson we will be learning Strong Enough by Sheryl Crow on acoustic guitar.  The song is played fingerstyle but can also be strummed.  It contains mainly open chords but makes use of an interesting Bm7b6 chord.  From an arrangement standpoint it is relatively easy, made up of just 3 parts.

Jam Man by Chet Atkins
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In this lesson we will be learning the main theme to Chet Atkins’ Jam Man. One of the main concepts behind Chet’s playing is his use of Travis picking and use of a thumb pick. Both are covered in this relatively simple piece of music. Great way to get started with the Chet Atkin’s style.

Rainbow Connection by Kermit The Frog
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In this lesson we will be learning the Muppets classic Rainbow Connection.  The song uses a lot of chords because of the key change for the 3rd verse and chorus.  It is written in 3/4 time with a very simple strumming pattern.  Capo required on the 2nd fret.

Morning Dew by Bonnie Dobson
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In this lesson we will be learning the original version of Morning Dew by Bonnie Dobson. The song is played fingerstyle with a capo at the 2nd fret. The chords used are A, G, G/F#, D, C, G/B.

How Great Thou Art
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The classic hymn How Great Thou Art is a simple chord progression for the most part. Chords used in the key of G are G, C, D, D7, Am, G7, and C#dim7. We will be covering the chords and the melody.

Big Yellow Taxi by Joni Mitchell
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In this lesson we will be learning Joni Mitchell’s Big Yellow Taxi. The song is played with an open D alternate tuning. The tuning of open D is shown in the tab. The song consists of a I – IV – V (E, A, and B) chord progression for the most part. The tricky part about this tune is Mitchell’s intricate rhythm playing. She keeps her strum hand going in an 8th note fashion accenting and muting various strums.

City Of New Orleans by Arlo Guthrie
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In this lesson we will be studying the Arlo Guthrie version of City Of New Orleans. The tune is played with the guitar tuned a 1/2 step down and consists of 7 familiar chord shapes, G, Em, D, C, Bm, F, and A. While I have charted the song with a fingerstyle arrangement like the recording, I do cover a basic strumming pattern you can use instead of finger picking.

Leaving On A Jet Plane by Peter Paul and Mary
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In this lesson we will be learning Leaving on A Jet Plane. Some new chords you may have not run across yet. Chords are Amaj7, D6, F#m, Bm, C#m, A, D, and E. Same strumming pattern throughout.

Ain’t No Sunshine by Bill Withers
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In this lesson we will study the Bill Wither’s tune Ain’t No Sunshine

Harvest Moon by Neil Young
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This lesson is a song study of Neil Young’s Harvest Moon. The song requires a Drop D tuning.

Redemption Song by Bob Marley
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This lesson covers Redemption Song by Bob Marley. A great tune for beginners learning open chords.

California Dreaming by Mamas and the Papas
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In this lesson we will learn California Dreaming by the Mamas and the Papas. This song requires a capo.

Bad Bad Leroy Brown by Jim Croce
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In this lesson we will learn Bad Bad Leroy Brown by Jim Croce. There are several ways to play the tune for beginners and intermediate players.

Frozen Man by James Taylor
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In this lesson we will learn Frozen Man by James Taylor.

Blowin in the Wind by Bob Dylan
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In this lesson we will learn the classic Bob Dylan tune Blowin in the Wind. The tune requires a capo at the 7th fret.

Working at the Car Wash Blues
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In this lesson we will learn the Jim Croce tune Working at the Car Wash Blues.

Blackbird by the Beatles
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In this lesson we will be learning the classic acoustic guitar song Blackbird by Paul McCartney and the Beatles. This is a great fingerstyle style piece that is sure to impress. Blackbird chords are unique in that there are no full open chords used throughout the tune.  McCartney is specifically picking specific notes of implied chords creating a beautiful melodic piece.  Specifically the root note on E or A string and the B string are highlighted with an open G ringing throughout.

Heart of Gold by Neil Young
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In this lesson we will be learning Neil Young’s Heart of Gold. This tune is fairly simple using just 4 open chords throughout. Heart of Gold chords are Em, G, C, and D.  He also uses a variation on Em called Em7 by adding the pinky to the 3rd fret of the B string.  There are basically 3 sections to the tune, an intro, verse, and chorus.

Will You Still Love Me Tomorrow by Carol King
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In this lesson we will be studying Carol King’s Will You Still Love Me Tomorrow.

Sweet Caroline by Neil Diamond
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This tune requires a capo at the 2nd fret to be in tune with the original recording. The chord progression is relatively easy just using open chords.

The Weight by The Band
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In this lesson we will study how to play the classic tune The Weight by the Band.

Brokedown Palace by Grateful Dead / Adrienne Young
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This tune uses mostly open chords. The Adrienee Young version requires a capo at the 2nd fret.

Far From Any Road by the Handsome Family
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Learn the theme song from True Detective, Far From Any Road.  Easy tune using mostly open chords and an F Barre chord.

American Pie by Don McLean
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Learn this classic acoustic tune by Don McLean.  It is simple in the sense that it uses mostly open chords but the arrangement can be tricky to get down.  A lot of chord changes in this one

Ripple by The Grateful Dead
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In this lesson we are going to learn Ripple by The Grateful Dead.  This is a great example of a folk / bluegrass style where the guitar plays the melody within the chord progression.  The intro is a challenge to grasp with the combining of rhythm and melody, but the rest of the tune is quite simple. Five open chords used throughout, G, C, D, Am, and A

Old Man by Neil Young
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In this lesson we will be learning the Neil Young classic Old Man.  While the song is made up of simple open chords, it does have some complexities in the rhythm and vibe of the sound.  Neil Young’s acoustic style often incorporates a semi palm muted technique that can be difficult to grasp for beginners.  He also uses embellishments such as hammer ons within the chords to add color and movement.

Sound Of Silence by Simon and Garfunkel
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Learn how to play Sound Of Silence on guitar. This Simon and Garfunkel classic is played fingerstyle through the 1st verse and then moves to a strumming pattern. We will cover all the parts in this tutorial. You will need a capo on the 6th fret.

Big Iron by Marty Robbins
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Big Iron is a relatively simple tune with 4 chords.  It uses the same strumming pattern throughout with a simple arrangement.  Chords used are Am, E, C, F.  The original is played with a capo at the 4th fret.

Friend Of The Devil by The Grateful Dead
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In this lesson we will be learning a simple version of Friend of The Devil by The Grateful Dead.  The chords used in this acoustic based song are G, C, D, and Am.  The strum pattern is the same throughout the entire song.  We will also be covering the descending intro line.

Nose On The Grindstone (Tyler Childers)
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In this lesson we will be learning Nose On The Grindstone by Tyler Childers.  The song is in 3/4 and requires a capo on the 3rd fret.  The chords used are mostly basic open chords, Dm, C, F, G.  The challenging part of the tune is the arrangement and his use of articulations in the solo section.

Hallelujah by Leonard Cohen
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Great tune using mostly open chords in key of C. Simple arrangement. Can be played on electric or acoustic.

Mr. Bo Jangles by Jerry Jeff Walker
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This song is in 3/4 time and uses the same strumming pattern throughout. It requires the use of several chords, many of which are basic. The original recording is played with a capo at the 2nd fret. Chords used are C, G/B, Am, Am/G, F, E, G, and D7/F#

Love and Happiness by Al Green
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Love and Happiness by Al Green is a classic R&B/Soul tune written in Ab minor. Because of the key it will require several barre chords. We will cover all parts including the intro and the horn lines transcribed for guitar. The song offers the opportunity for some improvisational lead stuff using an Ab Pentatonic minor / Blues scale.

Lean On Me by Bill Withers
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Lean on Me by Bill Withers is a piano tune in the Key of C. We are going to learn this on guitar as close to the piano part as possible. This will require some different and more challenging chord voicings. Sounds very nice if you can get it. We will also be going over an easier version as well using mostly open chords.

I’d Rather Go Blind by Etta James
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In this lesson we will learn the classic I’d Rather Go Blind by Etta James. The song is just 2 chords and follows the same form the entire tune. There are some tasty lead guitar parts worth learning as well.

My Girl by the Temptations
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This lesson is a song study of My Girl by the Temptations. This tune embodies the essence of Motown guitar. Great tune with a nice, easy riff and chord progression.

Hooked On A Feeling by Blue Swede
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In this lesson we will be learning Hooked On a Feeling by Blue Swede.  The tune has an R&B/Soul style guitar part that uses higher voicings on the top 4 stings. Learn how to play the chords here!

Higher Ground by Stevie Wonder
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In this lesson we will learn a guitar version of Higher Ground. The original is mostly played on clavinet. This guitar adaptation provides an opportunity to work on the skill of string skipping.

Stand By Me by Ben E King
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Easy tune with just 4 chords and a simple bass line. The arrangement is the same throughout. Uses just A, F#m, D, and E

Dock Of the Bay by Otis Redding
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A classic Soul tune using mostly open chords. The challenge in this song is getting the strumming pattern down. Chords used are G, B7, C, A, E, D, and F

Reach Out (I’ll Be There) by The Four Tops
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Learn the classic Motown tune by the Four Tops. In this tune we will study some different major and minor chord positions.

Kickstart My Heart by Motley Crue
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In this lesson we will be learning the fast paced, hard rockin tune Kickstart My Heart by Motley Crue. Be prepared for a workout on this one with its fast tempo and constant palm muted eighth note riffs. The various riffs make this one very fun to learn and play.

Crazy Train by Ozzy Ozbourne
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This lesson is a song study of Crazy Train by Ozzie Ozbourne.

Enter Sandman by Metallica
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This lesson is a song study of Enter Sandman by Metallica.

Run To The Hills by Iron Maiden
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This lesson is a song study of Run To The Hills by Iron Maiden.

Breaking The Law by Judas Priest
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This is a song study of Breakin The Law by Judas Priest. The song consists of mainly power chords and a riff based on the A minor scale.

Symphony of Destruction by Magadeth
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This lesson is a song study of Symphony of Destruction by Magadeth

Monster by Skillet
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In this lesson we will be learning Monster by Skillet.  This tune is relatively easy requiring just power chords.  However the song is tuned down to open C.

Somewhere Over The Rainbow by Iz
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In this lesson we will be learning Somewhere Over The Rainbow as arranged by Iz Kamakawiwoʻole.  The original version done on ukulele, is played in the key of C with a reggae like feel.  Fantastic version and arrangement!

No Woman No Cry by Bob Marley
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In this lesson we will be learning the song No Woman No Cry by Bob Marley. This is a great song for beginners using just 4 chords.

Three Little Birds by Bob Marley
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Description

This tune by Bob Marley is a great song for beginners learning reggae. The song uses just 3 chords in an A – B style arrangement.

Our God by Chris Tomlin
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This lesson is a song study of Our God by Chris Tomlin.

Came To My Rescue by Hillsong
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In this lesson we will be learning Came To My Rescue by Hillsong.

I Can Only Imagine by Mercy Me
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In this lesson we will be learning Imagine by Mercy Me

Me Without You by Toby Mac
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This is a simple song with the same chord progression throughout. If you know your open chords this should be relatively easy.

Oceans by Hillsong
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This lesson is a song study of the Hillsong tune Oceans. This song requires a capo at the 3rd fret. The verse and chorus are relatively easy finger picking patterns. The bridge and solo sections are a little more difficult with some complicated chord fingerings.

How He Loves by David Crowder
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In this lesson we will be learning How He Loves by David Crowder.  The song is great for beginners using only C, Am, G, and F.  While the F can be challenging for beginners, this is a good song to use to push yourself into playing that chord.  I will also show you more advanced players some ways to dress this up and add some more colorful guitar parts.

Star Wars Theme Song
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In this lesson we will be learning the main theme song to Star Wars.  The relatively easy melody is in the key of A. Fun, recognizable tune!

James Bond Theme
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In this lesson we will be learning the main theme to James Bond.

Bonanza Theme
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In this lesson we are going to learn the classic line from the Bonanza TV theme song.

All I Want For Christmas Is You by Mariah Carey
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In this lesson we will be learning the Mariah Carey Christmas tune All I Want For Christmas is You. From a strumming perspective the song is fairly easy, but there are a lot of chords.

Deck The Halls
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In this lesson we will be learning this Christmas classic in the key of D. Chords needed are D, A, E, and G.

To learn more about Roman Numeral or Nashville system watch this lesson:
Roman Numeral Nashville system

Rockin’ Around the Christmas Tree (solo) by Brenda Lee
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In this lesson we will be learning all the lead guitar parts and converting the sax solo to guitar.

Rockin’ Around The Christmas Tree by Brenda Lee
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Description

Rockin’ Around The Christmas Tree is a classic Christmas tune played in the key of Ab.  This key requires the use of all barre chords.  The song has a jazzy, rockabilly feel requiring some appropriate chords such as 6 and 9 chords.

Mary Did You Know
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Mary Did You Know is played with an arpeggiated fingerstyle. Chords needed are Dsus2, Am7, B7, G, C, and Em7

Silent Night
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Description

In this lesson learn how to play a simple chord melody version on Silent Night

Jingle Bell Rock
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In this lesson we will learn the classic Christmas tune Jingle Bell Rock.

Feliz Navidad
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Description

In this lesson we will learn a simple 4 chord Christmas tune. This tune uses mostly open chords and a Bm barre chord

Santa Claus Is Coming To Town
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In this lesson we will learn a simple Christmas tune using all open chords.

What Child Is This
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In this lesson we will be learning this Christmas classic. The lesson includes learning the chords for sing along and/or playing the melody

O Holy Night
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Description

Learn the chord progression to O Holy Night. The song is played in 6/8 time and lends itself to fingerstyle arpeggio chords.

Blue Christmas by Elvis
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Blue Christmas is in the key of E and requires the following chords, E, A7, B7, F#7, and A#dim7. The lesson covers a simple strumming version and a version that combines both the acoustic and electric parts.

Artist Studies

Introduction To Jimmy Page
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In this lesson we are going to discuss the main concepts behind Jimmy Page’s style and tone.

Jimmy Page Riffage
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In this lesson we will discuss how Page uses Pentatonic and Blues scales to create some of the most memorable riffs in the history of rock n roll. Examples given are Heartbreaker, The Ocean, and Misty Mountain Hop

Open Power Chord Riffs
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In this lesson we will examine how Page creates great riffs from a simple power chord. We will specifically be studying the riff from Rock N Roll and Houses of the Holy.

Jimmy Bends
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In this lesson we will take a close look at the style of Page’s string bending.

Repeating Licks
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In this lesson we will study repeating licks in the style of Jimmy Page. These are great licks to include in your improvising vocabulary.

Ascending and Descending Licks
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In this lesson we will study more licks in the style of Jimmy Page.

Combining Pentatonic Major and Minor
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In this lesson we will study how Page combines the major and minor pentatonic scales in his lead playing. We will be using a Jam Track to improvise.

Jimmy and the Minor Scale
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In this lesson we will take a look at how Jimmy page uses the Minor Scale. We will be jamming to a jam track in the style of Since I’ve Been Loving You.

Targeting Notes
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In this lesson we will study how Jimmy targets specific notes in the solo to Stairway to Heaven.

Jimmy Page – Black Dog Song Study
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This lesson is a song study of Black Dog.

BB King : Introduction
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This lesson is an introduction to the guitar style of BB King. Specifically, we will be discussing overall approach to solos, tone, and basic scales used.

BB King : Chords
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In this lesson we will study and discuss the chords used by King. Dominant 9 and 13 chords are the topic of discussion.

BB King : Vibrato and Bends Guitar Lesson
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In this BB King guitar lesson we will study the vibrato and bending techniques used by guitar legend BB King. His particular style of vibrato and bending is very recognizable. In fact his unique vibrato is one of his defining attributes.  His bending style is quite remarkable in the amount of semi tones he can find in one bend just by slight adjustment.

BB King : Rakes and Dynamics
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In this lesson we will cover King’s use of rakes and dynamics in his solo phrasing.

BB King : Major Blues Jam
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In this lesson we will tie together what we have learned thus far about BB King’s style in a major blues progression context.

BB King : Double Stops
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In this lesson we will study double stops in the style of BB King

BB King : Chromatic Approach
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In this lesson we will study how BB King uses a chromatic approach in his phrasing.

BB King : Jazz Influence
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In this lesson we will study some specific jazz type licks used by BB King.

BB King : Addressing the V Chord
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In this lesson we will discuss and study some ways to address the V chord in a 12 bar blues progression when improvising.

BB King : Minor Blues
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In this lesson we will study BB King style in the context of a minor blues progression.

Keith Richards : Introduction
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in this lesson we will discuss basic tone, tunings, and playing style of Keith Richards.

Keith Richards : Open G Chords
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In this lesson we will cover some of the basic chord forms used most often by Richards in open G tuning.

Keith Richards : Brown Sugar
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In this lesson we will incorporate the open G chords in this Rolling Stone classic Brown Sugar.

Keith Richards : Honky Tonk Woman
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In this lesson we will study the song Honky Tonk Woman. This tune requires some hybrid picking country style.

Keith Richards : Keith in Standard Tuning
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In this lesson we will study some standard tuning techniques used by Richards in such songs as Satisfaction.

Intro to Jerry Garcia
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In this lesson we will be discussing the style of Jerry Garcia. We will cover basic elements to his playing and tone ideas.

Combining Scales
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In this lesson we will discuss one of the essential elements of Garcia’s blues and country style playing, combining the blues, mixolydian, and country scales.

Jerry’s Blues
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In this lesson we will discuss the essence of Garcia’s blues playing approach. We will apply the combining of scales with modifying melody.

Melodic Patterns
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In this lesson we will discuss Garcia’s use of melodic patterns.

Modal Playing
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In this lesson we will discuss the Modal element of Jerry’s style. The chord progression of Franklins Tower will be used as an example.

Bends and Chromatic Licks
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In this lesson we will take a close look at Jerry’s use of bends and chromatic licks

Changing Modes
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In this lesson we will study the chord progression to Eyes of the World and practice switching modes or keys.

Targeting Specific Notes
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In this lesson we will discuss the idea of targeting notes of the specific chords playing in the harmonic structure.

Improv over Deal
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In this lesson we will apply the concept of targeting specific notes of the harmonic structure using the Deal Jam Track.

Improv over Althea
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In this lesson we will be looking at the harmonic structure and improvisation of Althea.

Guitar For Kids

Guitar For Kids : Introduction
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Welcome To Center Stage Guitar Academy For Kids! In this program we will be covering the fundamentals of music while learning how to play guitar.  The course will cover basics such as tuning, playing melodies, basic chords, songs, and reading music and tab.

Guitar For Kids : Guitar Basics and Three Blind Mice
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In this lesson we will cover the basics of guitar.  We will discuss types of guitars, how to hold it, how to play notes, and learn our first song, Three Blind Mice.

Guitar For Kids : The Rudiments of Music
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In this lesson we are going to talk about the rudiments or basics of music.  These include melody, harmony, and rhythm. We will also discuss the names of the open strings and how to tune the guitar.

Guitar For Kids : 3 String Exercise
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In this lesson we will be learning how to play notes on the first 3 strings. This exercise will prepare you to play songs in the future.

Guitar For Kids : Twinkle Twinkle Little Star
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In this lesson we will be learning the basics of reading standard music notation and how to play Twinkle Twinkle Little Star.  We will cover all the symbols used in standard music notation including the treble clef, time signature, lines and spaces, notes, and quarter and half notes.

Guitar For Kids : How to Find The Notes On The Guitar
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In this lesson we are going to learn how to find the notes used in music on the neck of the guitar.  In music we use 7 letters of the alphabet to name the notes. The letters are A B C D E F and G.  We also have notes in between the letters called sharps or flats.  For example we could have a D# or a Db.  All together we have 11 notes in music.

Guitar for Kids : Mary Had A Little Lamb and Reading Tab
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In this lesson we will be learning how to read tablature for guitar.  Tablature is a way to read music for guitar that uses numbers to represent frets on six lines that represent the strings.  To learn this we will be using the song Mary Had A Little Lamb.

Guitar For Kids : Old Mac Donald and 8th Notes
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In this lesson we will be learning about 8th notes and using them in the song Old Mac Donald.

Guitar For Kids : Happy Birthday and 3/4 Time
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In this lesson we will be learning a new time signature, 3/4. We will be learning the song Happy Birthday as an example of a song written in 3/4 time.

Guitar For Kids : How To Play Chords – G Major
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In this lesson we will be learning about what a chord is and how to play one on the guitar. The first chord we will be learning is called a G Major chord.

Guitar For Kids : The D Major Chord and Wheels On The Bus
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In this lesson we will be learning how to play a D Major Chord and using that chord, along with G Major, in a song called Wheels On The Bus.

Guitar For Kids : How To Play C Major Chord
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In this lesson we will learn our 3rd chord.  The chord is called C Major and it goes well with our first two chords, G Major and D Major.

Guitar For Kids : You Are My Sunshine
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In this lesson we will be using all 3 chords we know to play a classic song, You Are My Sunshine.

Guitar For Kids : The A minor Chord
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In this lesson we will learn a new chord, the A minor (Am) chord.  We will also learn the difference between a major chord and a minor chord.  In this lesson we will also learn some new strumming patterns using 8th notes

Guitar For Kids : Shake It Off by Taylor Swift
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Using the chords Am, C, and G we will be learning the Taylor Swift song Shake It Off.  The song uses the same 3 chords and strumming pattern throughout.

Guitar For Kids : The E Minor Chord
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In this lesson we will learn a new chord, the E minor chord.

Guitar For Kids : Chord Switching
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In this lesson we will practice switching back and forth with all the chords we have learned so far.

Guitar For Kids : Amazing Grace (Melody)
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In this lesson we will be learning the melody of Amazing Grace. Within the music we will learn about what a tie is in standard music notation.

Guitar For Kids : Amazing Grace (Chords)
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In this lesson we will learn the chords to Amazing Grace. At the end of the lesson we will try too play the melody and chords together creating a complete piece of music.

Guitar For Kids : Review of Note Values
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in this lesson we are going to review note values.  We will be going over the difference between a quarter note, eighth note, half note, and whole note.

Guitar For Kids : This Little Light Of Mine
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In this lesson we will be using the chords we know to learn a new song, This Little Light Of Mine. The song uses G, C, D, and Em chords.

Guitar For Kids : Anatomy Of A Song
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In this lesson we will learn about the parts that make up a song.  We will discuss the difference between an Intro, Verse, Pre Chorus, Chorus, and Bridge.

Guitar For Kids : Perfect by One Direction
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In this lesson we will be using 3 chords and an 8th note strumming pattern to play the song Perfect by One Direction

Guitar For Kids : Power Chords
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In this lesson we will learn about power chords.  Power chords are movable chords that require just 2 fingers to play.  They are common in many styles of music.

Guitar For Kids : Rolling In The Deep by Adele
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In this lesson we will learn Rolling In The Deep by Adele.  We will tie together all the things we have learned throughout the course.