Jam with Steely Dan: A Comprehensive Guitar Tutorial Series

Explore the iconic music of Steely Dan with Licklibrary.com's "Jam with Steely Dan" guitar lesson series. This meticulously crafted package offers guitarists an opportunity to delve into seven of Steely Dan's legendary songs. Each lesson taught by Tom Quayle, is a deep dive into the unique guitar styles and techniques that define these classics. In addition to detailed instructional content, the inclusion of backing tracks enhances the learning experience, allowing guitarists to practice and play along with the songs.

Songs Included in This Course

• Reelin’ In The Years
• Josie 
• Kid Charlemagne
• Black Friday
• My Old School
• Peg
• Do It Again

Song Breakdowns

Reelin’ In The Years

"Reelin’ In The Years" is a quintessential track for mastering rock guitar. The song is a showcase of dynamic soloing and catchy riffing. Learning this track hones your lead guitar skills, especially in the realms of string bending and fast picking, essential for any aspiring rock guitarist.

Josie

Josie brings a distinct jazz flavor, ideal for those exploring jazz-rock fusion. The song offers an excellent platform for understanding complex chord structures and rhythms, expanding your musical vocabulary and versatility.

Kid Charlemagne

The guitar solo in "Kid Charlemagne" is a masterclass in itself. Focused on advanced techniques such as fast scale runs and expressive bending, this song is a must-study for serious guitarists aiming to refine their lead playing skills.

Black Friday

Imbued with a bluesy essence, "Black Friday" is a great track for those looking to integrate blues elements into their playing. The song focuses on blues scales, powerful bends, and rhythmic shuffles, bridging the stylistic gap between rock and blues.

My Old School

"My Old School" combines energetic rock vibes with complex jazz elements. The song's intricate solos and rhythmic variations are perfect for improving improvisational skills and timing.

Peg

"Peg" is known for its groove-centric guitar parts. This song is a lesson in rhythm and feel, emphasizing the importance of playing in the pocket – a crucial skill for any session guitarist.

Do It Again

Featuring a unique Latin twist, "Do It Again" offers an opportunity to explore diverse rhythmic patterns and exotic scales, broadening your playing style.

The Power of Practicing with Backing Tracks

Practicing with backing tracks is a game-changer. It improves rhythmic accuracy and timing, crucial for any performing guitarist. Additionally, it offers a practical context for your playing, teaching you how to fit your parts within a band setting. This method also enhances your improvisation skills and builds confidence for live performances.

The Artistry of Steely Dan's Lead Guitar

Steely Dan's guitar work is a blend of rock precision, jazz complexity, and blues feeling. The lead guitar in these songs is marked by clear, articulate phrasing, extensive use of scales and arpeggios, and a deep understanding of melody. Learning these tracks will elevate your technical proficiency and expand your expressive capabilities.

Essential Guitar Techniques in These Lessons

• String Bending
• Alternate Picking
• Legato Techniques
• Double Stops
• Hammer-Ons
• Pull-Offs
• Slides
• Arpeggios
• Chord Progressions

"Jam with Steely Dan" is more than a guitar tutorial; it's a comprehensive journey into the musical world of a legendary band. This series is designed to improve your playing technique, expand your musical understanding, and enhance your stylistic versatility.