Learn to Play Rolling Stones: Note-for-Note Guitar Lessons

One of the cornerstones of rock music, the Rolling Stones have always been a band that guitarists from all walks of life look up to. Known for their raw energy and eclectic mix of rock, blues, and country, they’ve crafted some of the most memorable guitar riffs and solos in music history. Our product, "Learn to Play Rolling Stones", offers a deep dive into some of their most iconic songs, bringing you note-for-note guitar lessons from Michael Caswell, that cover rhythm, lead parts, solos and the specific guitar techniques that make these songs timeless. Let’s get into the specifics.

(I Can't Get No) Satisfaction

Arguably one of the Rolling Stones' most iconic songs, '(I Can't Get No) Satisfaction' features a recurring two-note guitar riff that is easy to play but incredibly impactful. This song is a lesson in the power of simplicity and how to use the minor pentatonic scale effectively. Our course dissects the song's structure, taking you through the driving riffs and syncopated rhythms that define its sound.

Jumpin' Jack Flash

'Jumpin' Jack Flash' is a raw and energetic track that showcases Keith Richards' innovative open G tuning and his use of simple, rhythmic riffs to create an infectious groove. The main riff employs chromaticism to great effect, adding a distinctive flavor to the song. Our lesson goes into detail on how to achieve that iconic tone and delves into the dynamic solo, demonstrating the art of interweaving rhythm and lead guitar parts.

Angie

'Angie' is a stark departure from the Rolling Stones' usual hard-rocking style, offering a tender, intricate arpeggiated chord progression that's a masterclass in dynamic control and finger-picking. The lessons break down the song's complex fingerstyle patterns and the use of altered tunings to create its unique sonic texture.

Brown Sugar

'Brown Sugar' is a quintessential Stones track that blends elements of rock, blues, and country. The opening riff, built around a minor pentatonic scale, is a study in using slides and double-stops to add flavour to your playing. We guide you through the intricacies of the song's structure, including the infectious, bluesy bends that characterize its solo.

Honky Tonk Women

'Honky Tonk Women' is a rhythmically intriguing song with a country-tinged riff that uses open-string riffs to create a twangy, memorable hook. The guitar solo is packed with double-stop bends and bluesy licks, creating a lesson in how to infuse your solos with personality and flair.

Keith Richards and His Contributions

Keith Richards, the Stones' lead guitarist, is a master of using simple tools to great effect. His unique approach to rhythm guitar, combining elements of lead and rhythm into what he calls "guitar weaving", has defined the Stones' sound. He's known for his minimalistic use of gear, often utilizing a single guitar (notably his trusty Fender Telecaster) and a small array of pedals. However, it's his distinctive use of open tunings and capo that adds a special edge to his sound, giving the Rolling Stones their iconic gritty texture.

Each lesson incorporates these aspects of Richards' style, teaching you how to 'weave' your own parts, use open tunings effectively, and incorporate different techniques into your playing. We pay special attention to the elements that make Keith's style distinctive, like his love for double-stop bends, unison bends, and syncopated rhythms.

Guitar Techniques Employed in these Lessons

Throughout these lessons, you'll encounter a wide range of guitar techniques that are key to replicating the Rolling Stones' sound. Here is a list of the most significant ones:

• Alternate picking
• Chord progressions
• Double-stop bends
• Unison bends
• Syncopated rhythms
• Open-string riffs
• Bluesy bends
• Slides
• Arpeggiated chord progressions
• Chromaticism
• Altered tunings

Whether you're a beginner looking to get your feet wet in the world of rock guitar, or a seasoned player wanting to delve into the playing style of one of the greatest rock bands of all time, "Learn to Play Rolling Stones" offers something for every level. By the end of these lessons, you'll have a deep understanding of how to utilize various techniques to recreate the Rolling Stones' unique sound, and more importantly, how to infuse these techniques into your own playing. Dive in and let's get rolling!