Jailhouse Rock – Elvis Presley

Step into the roots of rock ‘n’ roll with LickLibrary’s note-for-note guitar lesson of “Jailhouse Rock” by Elvis Presley. This classic 1957 track is more than just an iconic hit—it’s a blueprint for early rock guitar playing. In this in-depth guitar lesson, you’ll break down the core riffs, rhythm techniques, and stylistic nuances that defined a generation of rock and roll. Perfect for players who want to expand their knowledge of vintage rock guitar, this lesson delivers a punchy and practical approach to rhythm playing and foundational rock technique.

Whether you're a beginner looking to improve your timing and groove, or a more experienced player aiming to capture the feel of 1950s rockabilly, this lesson is packed with useful techniques that can strengthen your playing and enhance your stylistic versatility. Lee Hodgson breaks down this classic track in this exclusive Lick Library video tutorial.

The Guitar Work Behind the Song

The guitar work on “Jailhouse Rock” was played by Scotty Moore, one of the most influential guitarists of the rock and roll era. Moore was a pioneer in blending country picking with R&B and blues licks, crafting a unique sound that laid the groundwork for future generations of rock guitarists. His rhythmic sensibility and tasteful lead lines are a lesson in restraint, groove, and tone. Moore’s guitar work, particularly on tracks like “Jailhouse Rock,” showcases his uncanny ability to make a few notes swing with unmatched authority.

His influence can be heard in the work of countless legends including Keith Richards, Jimmy Page, and Brian Setzer. Learning Moore’s approach through this lesson not only sharpens your technical skills but also helps you develop a deeper understanding of rock and roll’s rhythmic foundations.

Rhythm and Groove – The Foundation of the Track

The lesson begins with an exploration of tight rhythm playing, which is at the heart of "Jailhouse Rock." The main riff is driven by a powerful shuffle rhythm, locking into a groove that embodies early rock energy. You’ll work on perfecting that rhythmic drive, focusing on palm muting to keep the tone controlled and percussive.

Palm muting helps you gain better control over your dynamics and articulation. Mastering it not only improves your rhythm chops but also gives your playing more attitude and character—a critical part of playing rock convincingly.

Power Chords and Riff Construction

The lesson also emphasises the use of power chords, the staple of rock and punk music. These chords, while simple in shape, deliver a bold and aggressive sound that cuts through the mix. You’ll learn how to use them to construct riffs that are both musically strong and rhythmically engaging.

Learning power chords helps players quickly access a wide range of songs and styles. They are perfect for developing left-hand strength and precision, as well as right-hand rhythmic accuracy.

Slides and Double Stops – Bluesy Flair

Scotty Moore’s style includes the tasteful use of slides and double stops. These are incorporated into both lead fills and rhythm parts to create a more dynamic, vocal-like quality in the playing.

Slides help connect phrases fluidly, adding character and style to your lead work, while double stops reinforce harmonic content and give your lines a fuller sound. Both techniques teach you how to blend rhythm and lead in a seamless, musical way.

String Bending – Expressive Touches

Though subtle, string bending is used to great effect in this track. It adds emotion and movement to otherwise simple phrases. You’ll learn how to bend with accuracy and control—key to sounding confident and expressive as a guitarist.

Developing control over your bends is essential for phrasing. It allows you to emulate vocal qualities in your playing, making your solos more lyrical and expressive.

Benefits of Learning “Jailhouse Rock”

• Enhance rhythm accuracy: The consistent groove demands tight timing and control.
• Strengthen core rock techniques: Focus on essential tools like palm muting, power chords, and bends.
• Improve musical feel: Learn to play with the swing and swagger that made 1950s rock iconic.
• Expand stylistic range: Add blues and rockabilly flavours to your playing with slides, bends, and double stops.
• Build phrasing skills: Develop a sense of space and dynamics that goes beyond technical proficiency.

Techniques Used in the Lesson

• Palm Muting
• Power Chords
• Slides
• Double Stops
• String Bending

With our Jailhouse Rock guitar lesson, you’re not just learning a song—you’re stepping into the birth of rock and roll and soaking in the guitar vocabulary that shaped modern music. Whether you’re chasing that vintage tone or sharpening your rhythm chops, this lesson will get your playing locked in and rocking like it's 1957.