Learn to Play David Bowie

Welcome to our latest product: "Learn to Play David Bowie". This comprehensive guitar lesson series, taught by Michael Casswell, delves deep into the legendary catalog of one of the most influential artists in rock history, David Bowie. A genius of reinvention, Bowie's music ranges from glam rock, punk, soul to electronica. His long-time guitarist Mick Ronson was a pivotal figure in shaping the sound and style that defined Bowie's music. With our lessons, you'll not only learn to play these iconic songs but also understand the guitar scales, solos, and techniques that made them remarkable.

Rebel Rebel

"Rebel Rebel" is a classic rock anthem, characterized by its infectious guitar riff. You'll learn how to play this famous riff using a mix of the A major and D major pentatonic scales. The song has a rebellious energy that is accentuated by the use of power chords and its infectious main riff. Our analysis of the solo helps you grasp how it complements the driving rhythm of the song, leading to an exciting musical experience.

The Jean Genie

"The Jean Genie" is a fantastic blues-based rock tune. It showcases the use of the E major pentatonic scale, with its repetitive but compelling main riff that carries the tune. Our breakdown of the solo will help you understand how the use of double stops and chromaticism can add texture to a rock guitar solo, making it more dynamic and engaging.

Ziggy Stardust

"Ziggy Stardust" features an intricate chord progression that spans from A major to G major, D major, and E minor, giving the song a melodic richness that sets it apart. In this lesson, you'll learn to replicate Mick Ronson's masterful string bending and vibrant vibrato techniques. The solo is analyzed in detail to highlight the way it underscores the song's narrative and emotional intensity.

Moonage Daydream

"Moonage Daydream" is a tour-de-force of dynamic guitar playing. The song showcases a variety of scales including A Major, D Major, and E Major. Its solo is a testament to Mick Ronson's guitar prowess, using a combination of bends, slides, and sustain to create a sonic landscape that transports the listener to another dimension.

Suffragette City

"Suffragette City" is a high-energy track that involves rapid chord changes and lively rock rhythms. It mainly uses the A major pentatonic scale with the chord progression moving swiftly from F to E. The solo is a brilliant example of alternate picking, delivering a rapid-fire sequence of notes that elevates the energy of the song.

Mick Ronson's Contribution

Mick Ronson was instrumental in creating the vibrant and versatile soundscapes that define Bowie's music. His approach to guitar was innovative and multifaceted, using various techniques from string bending and vibrato to slides and alternate picking. His solos were musical conversations, responding to Bowie's vocal lines and enhancing the emotional depth of the songs. His ability to use different scales in one song and his knack for writing unforgettable riffs has left an indelible mark on rock music.

Techniques Utilized in these Lessons

• Vibrato
• Alternate Picking
• String Bending
• Slides
• Sustain
• Chromaticism
• Power Chords
• Double Stops

With "Learn to Play David Bowie," we aim to offer an immersive learning experience that not only teaches you how to play the songs but also allows you to delve deep into the creative processes and techniques that gave these iconic songs their unique character. We hope that you'll find this product to be as enriching and inspiring as we do. Let's dive into the magic of Bowie's music together.