Behind The Solos – Nick Jennison

Unlock the secrets behind some of rock and metal’s most iconic lead guitar moments with Behind The Solos by Nick Jennison. This course takes a deep dive into the techniques, phrasing concepts, and musical ideas that define legendary solos, breaking them down into practical, digestible lessons you can apply to your own playing immediately. Rather than simply learning note-for-note lines, this course shows you why these solos work, giving you the tools to think like the players who created them.

Nick Jennison’s clear and analytical teaching style makes even the most advanced concepts accessible, guiding you through a series of focused studies inspired by classic tracks and albums. From the flamboyant virtuosity of Pornograffitti to the melodic sophistication of Is This Love and the theatrical metal of Mr Crowley, every lesson is designed to expand your technical ability and musical vocabulary.

Course Breakdown

Pornograffitti – Tapped, String Skipping Arpeggio Patterns

This lesson explores the high-octane arpeggio playing synonymous with Nuno Bettencourt’s style. By combining string skipping with tapping techniques, you’ll learn how to outline extended chord shapes across the fretboard with precision and flair. This approach builds coordination between both hands while unlocking fluid, cascading arpeggio lines that sound both modern and expressive.

Pornograffitti – Funk Shell Chords

Here, the focus shifts to rhythm guitar, examining the tight, percussive funk chord work that underpins many grooves on Pornograffitti. You’ll learn how to use stripped-back chord voicings and rhythmic accuracy to create space and feel. This lesson develops your timing, muting control, and rhythmic awareness—essential skills for any well-rounded guitarist.

Pornograffitti – Wide Interval Symmetrical Shapes – Part 1

This lesson introduces wide intervallic patterns that break away from traditional scale shapes. By using symmetrical fingerings across the fretboard, you’ll begin to visualise new pathways for soloing. These shapes create a distinctive, modern sound and encourage more adventurous phrasing.

Pornograffitti – Wide Interval Symmetrical Shapes – Part 2

Building on Part 1, this lesson expands these concepts further, helping you connect positions and develop longer, more expressive lines. The result is a more fluid fretboard understanding and the ability to create unique melodic ideas that stand out from conventional scale-based playing.

Is This Love

Inspired by the melodic phrasing of Whitesnake’s classic ballad, this lesson focuses on expressive lead playing. You’ll explore how to craft solos that prioritise feel, tone, and phrasing, using space and dynamics to create emotional impact.

Mr Crowley

Dive into the neoclassical brilliance of Randy Rhoads with a study of Mr Crowley. This lesson highlights classical-inspired phrasing, fast runs, and dramatic melodic structures, giving you insight into one of rock’s most influential guitar voices.

No More Tears

This lesson examines the groove-driven soloing of Zakk Wylde, combining pentatonic phrasing with aggressive articulation. You’ll learn how to balance precision with attitude, creating solos that are both powerful and memorable.

The Final Countdown

Explore the iconic melodic phrasing and harmonic ideas behind this classic track. This lesson emphasises strong thematic development and the use of scale-based ideas to create instantly recognisable lead lines.

Techniques Covered

Tapped Arpeggios & Two-Handed Coordination

By working through tapped and string-skipped arpeggios, you’ll develop advanced coordination between your picking and fretting hands. This technique allows you to cover large fretboard intervals with ease, opening up new sonic possibilities for lead playing.

Funk Rhythm & Chord Control

The use of shell chords and tight rhythmic patterns will refine your groove playing. You’ll improve your ability to lock in with a rhythm section while maintaining clarity and precision in your chord work.

Wide Interval & Symmetrical Patterns

These shapes help you break out of predictable scale runs, encouraging more creative phrasing. Learning symmetrical patterns also improves fretboard visualisation, making it easier to navigate complex ideas across the neck.

Expressive Lead Techniques

From bends and vibrato to subtle phrasing nuances, this course emphasises the importance of feel. Developing these skills allows you to convey emotion and personality in your solos.

Neoclassical & Scale-Based Runs

Fast, articulate passages inspired by classical music will enhance your technical ability and picking accuracy. These ideas are essential for players looking to expand into more advanced lead styles.

Pentatonic Power & Modern Rock Phrasing

You’ll learn how to push beyond basic pentatonic shapes, incorporating advanced articulation and phrasing techniques to create more dynamic and engaging solos.

About The Guitarists & Their Influence

The material in this course draws inspiration from some of rock and metal’s most influential players. Nuno Bettencourt’s innovative fusion of funk and shred revolutionised modern guitar playing, while Randy Rhoads brought a neoclassical sophistication that continues to inspire generations. Zakk Wylde’s aggressive, blues-infused style demonstrates the power of strong phrasing and tone, and the melodic sensibilities found in bands like Europe and Whitesnake highlight the importance of memorable, song-driven solos. By studying these players, you gain a deeper understanding of how technique and musicality combine to create truly iconic guitar moments.

Why Learn Behind The Solos?

This course goes beyond simply copying solos—it equips you with the knowledge and techniques to develop your own voice on the instrument. By understanding the mechanics behind great lead guitar playing, you’ll be able to apply these concepts across a wide range of styles, from rock and metal to funk and melodic ballads.

Whether you’re looking to improve your technical ability, expand your phrasing vocabulary, or gain insight into the thinking of legendary guitarists, Behind The Solos provides a comprehensive and inspiring pathway to becoming a more expressive and confident player.

Guitar Techniques Used

• Vibrato
• Alternate Picking
• Legato
• Arpeggios
• Two Handed Tapping
• String Bending
• Double Stops
• Slides
• Palm Muting
• Syncopated Rhythms
• Chord Progressions
• Hybrid Picking
• Hammer Ons
• Pull Offs
• Sustain