"Hocus Pocus" by Focus

Unlock the full power of your guitar playing with our lesson of "Hocus Pocus" by Focus, available exclusively at LickLibrary.com. This track isn’t just a high-energy instrumental—it’s a technical workout that challenges your speed, precision, and musical expression. Through our expert guidance, you’ll learn how to nail every phrase and master the guitar techniques that make this song iconic.

First released in 1971, Hocus Pocus blends prog rock complexity with classical-influenced runs and hard rock intensity. Known for its lightning-fast solos, frantic riffs, and quirky breaks (including yodelling!), this track by Dutch band Focus became a surprise hit and remains a favourite among guitarists looking to push their limits. Danny Gill breaks down this classic track in this exclusive Lick Library video tutorial.

About the Guitarist: Jan Akkerman

The mastermind behind the guitar work in Hocus Pocus is none other than Jan Akkerman. A Dutch guitar virtuoso, Akkerman’s style is a powerful blend of classical finesse and rock aggression. His groundbreaking approach in the early '70s helped redefine what a rock guitarist could be. Akkerman was ahead of his time—combining speed, expression, and harmonic creativity in a way that influenced future guitar greats like Steve Vai, Joe Satriani, and Eddie Van Halen. His performance on Hocus Pocus is a tour de force that every serious guitarist should explore.

Techniques Covered in the Lesson

Our lesson doesn’t just teach you how to play Hocus Pocus — it breaks down each challenging section and gives you the tools to master the advanced techniques used throughout. Here's what you'll be working on:

Alternate Picking

Crucial to the track’s aggressive riffs and rapid-fire solos, alternate picking helps you play with speed and accuracy. It develops rhythmic control and hand synchronisation, especially in faster tempos.

Hammer-Ons and Pull-Offs

Used extensively in the legato runs, these techniques give your solos fluidity and smoothness. They also improve finger strength and coordination, making your playing more expressive.

Legato

The seamless execution of notes through hammer-ons and pull-offs enhances phrasing and helps you build speed with less picking effort. It’s essential for executing longer, flowing lines with ease.

Tremolo Picking

A fast picking technique that creates intensity and urgency in single-note runs. Practicing this builds stamina and improves your picking consistency at high speeds.

Tapped Harmonics

Adding a splash of harmonic colour and dynamic flair, tapped harmonics expand your tonal range and give your solos a unique edge.

Slides

Slides add motion and character to transitions between notes or positions. They help develop fretboard awareness and expressive phrasing.

String Bending

Used to mimic vocal-like phrasing, bends add emotion and tension to your lead playing. Accurate bending is crucial for expressive, dynamic solos.

Vibrato

Vibrato adds depth and personality to sustained notes. It’s a key expressive tool that sets professional players apart from beginners.

Why This Song Is Great for Your Development

Learning Hocus Pocus is more than just tackling a classic rock instrumental—it’s a serious technical challenge that offers real benefits:

• Improves Picking Precision – The intricate runs force your picking and fretting hands to stay perfectly in sync.
• Builds Soloing Confidence – The mix of speed, control, and creativity in this song enhances your overall lead playing.
• Expands Technique Versatility – You’ll be working across multiple styles and techniques, all within one track.
• Boosts Musical Awareness – The composition demands not just technical skill, but also attention to dynamics, rhythm, and tone.

This lesson is ideal for intermediate to advanced players who want to sharpen their technique while learning a fun, wild, and uniquely constructed piece of guitar history.

Guitar Techniques Used in This Lesson

• Alternate Picking
• Hammer-Ons
• Pull-Offs
• Legato
• Tremolo Picking
• Tapped Harmonics
• Slides
• String Bending
• Vibrato

Join LickLibrary.com today and take on the challenge of learning Hocus Pocus. With expert instruction, breakdowns of every riff and solo, and a deep dive into essential techniques, you’ll not only learn the song — you’ll become a better guitarist in the process.