Living Doll - Cliff Richard & The Shadows

Learn to Play "Living Doll" Note for Note

Cliff Richard & The Shadows' timeless hit, "Living Doll", is a perfect example of classic rock 'n' roll and early British pop. With its laid-back groove, melodic chord progressions, and signature guitar work, this song is an excellent piece for guitarists looking to develop fundamental techniques. Our note-for-note guitar lesson breaks down every element of the track, allowing players to master its signature style while improving their overall playing skills. Lee Hodgson breaks down this classic track in this exclusive Lick Library video tutorial.

Guitar Techniques Covered in This Lesson

Finger-Picking

The song features finger-picking, a technique that provides a softer, more organic sound compared to standard strumming. This method allows for greater control over dynamics and articulation, making it ideal for acoustic performances. By mastering finger-picking, guitarists can develop precision and independence between their thumb and fingers, which is beneficial for various styles, including folk, country, and blues.

Chord Progressions

At its core, "Living Doll" utilises simple yet effective chord progressions, providing a smooth and catchy harmonic foundation. Learning these progressions helps guitarists understand song structure and harmony while improving their ability to transition between chords seamlessly. This skill is essential for songwriting and accompaniment in multiple genres.

Barre Chords

This lesson includes barre chords, a technique where one finger holds down multiple strings to form movable chord shapes. Mastering barre chords enhances finger strength, dexterity, and versatility, allowing players to play a wider range of chords across the fretboard.

Slides

The lead guitar parts incorporate expressive slides, which add fluidity and character to the melody. Practicing slides helps players develop smooth transitions between notes, improving their phrasing and legato techniques.

Hammer-Ons and Pull-Offs

Adding to the song’s smooth and melodic feel, the lesson covers hammer-ons and pull-offs, essential techniques for creating seamless note transitions without excessive picking. These techniques improve finger strength and speed, enhancing lead-playing skills.

The Guitarists Behind "Living Doll"

The lead guitar work on "Living Doll" was performed by the legendary Hank Marvin, the lead guitarist of The Shadows. Known for his distinctive tone and smooth phrasing, Marvin played a crucial role in shaping the sound of early rock and instrumental music. His influence extends to guitar legends like Mark Knopfler, Brian May, and Eric Clapton. Studying his approach not only helps develop technical skills but also provides insight into phrasing, tone control, and expressive playing.

Guitar Techniques Used in This Lesson

• Finger-Picking
• Chord Progressions
• Barre Chords
• Slides
• Hammer-Ons
• Pull-Offs

This note-for-note lesson on "Living Doll" offers a fantastic opportunity to refine key guitar techniques while learning an iconic song. Whether you're a beginner looking to enhance your foundational skills or an experienced player wanting to add a classic tune to your repertoire, this lesson will provide valuable insights into early rock 'n' roll guitar playing.