Please Don't Tease – Cliff Richard & The Shadows

Learn to Play "Please Don't Tease" Note for Note

Licklibrary presents an in-depth guitar lesson for "Please Don't Tease" by Cliff Richard & The Shadows. This classic 1960 hit is packed with smooth guitar work, catchy melodies, and timeless rock and roll rhythms. Our expert guitar tuition breaks down the song, allowing players to master every note and technique required to faithfully recreate the iconic sound of Hank Marvin and The Shadows.

By studying this song, you'll gain a deeper understanding of key techniques that are essential for playing early rock and roll guitar, including vibrato, alternate picking, chord progressions, slides, barre chords, and double stops. Not only will you improve your technical ability, but you’ll also develop a greater appreciation for vintage rock tones and phrasing. Lee Hodgson breaks down this classic track in this exclusive Lick Library video tutorial.

The Guitarists Behind the Song

"Please Don't Tease" features Hank Marvin on lead guitar, one of the most influential British guitarists of all time. As the lead guitarist for The Shadows, Marvin’s signature tone, precise picking, and expressive vibrato played a crucial role in shaping the early British rock and roll scene. His melodic phrasing and clean execution have inspired countless guitarists, from Brian May to Mark Knopfler.

Marvin's playing in this song showcases his ability to blend smooth, articulate leads with a strong rhythmic foundation, making it a perfect study piece for guitarists looking to enhance their technique and vintage rock and roll chops.

Guitar Techniques Featured in This Lesson

Vibrato

Vibrato is an essential technique in rock and roll, adding warmth and expression to lead guitar lines. By mastering vibrato, you’ll develop better control over sustain and tone, giving your playing a professional, polished sound. Learn more about vibrato here.

Alternate Picking

Hank Marvin’s precise alternate picking allows for a smooth and even articulation of notes. This technique helps players build speed and accuracy, making it essential for executing fast melodic lines cleanly. Learn more about alternate picking here.

Chord Progressions

This song features classic chord progressions that define the early rock and roll era. Learning these progressions will enhance your ability to play a wide range of rock and pop songs with confidence. Learn more about chord progressions here.

Slides

Slides are frequently used in this song to create smooth transitions between notes, adding a vocal-like quality to the guitar melodies. This technique improves your ability to connect phrases fluidly. Learn more about slides here.

Barre Chords

Marvin’s rhythm playing often incorporates barre chords, which allow for more complex voicings and full-bodied chord sounds. Mastering barre chords is crucial for playing rhythm guitar across multiple styles. Learn more about barre chords here.

Double Stops

A signature element of The Shadows' sound, double stops involve playing two notes at once, creating harmony and a fuller tone. This technique is great for adding depth to lead lines and melodic fills. Learn more about double stops here.

Guitar Techniques Used in This Lesson

• Vibrato
• Alternate Picking
• Chord Progressions
• Slides
• Barre Chords
• Double Stops

By learning "Please Don't Tease", you’ll not only be able to recreate an iconic song but also strengthen key guitar techniques that are essential for any rock and roll guitarist. Join us at Licklibrary for this detailed note-for-note breakdown and take your playing to the next level!