Learn to play The Wind Cries Mary - Guitar Lesson
Guitar lesson for this song by Jimi Hendrix
The Wind Cries Mary - Jimi Hendrix
Jimi Hendrix’s “The Wind Cries Mary” is a masterclass in subtlety and soul. This timeless piece is not only a hallmark of Hendrix's incredible artistry but also a treasure trove of guitar techniques. At Licklibrary.com, we offer an in-depth guitar lesson for this song, taking you note-for-note through its intricate details while focusing on the key techniques that define its sound. Whether you're an aspiring guitarist or a seasoned player, learning this track will elevate your playing and deepen your appreciation for Hendrix’s genius. Danny Gill breaks down this classic track in exclusive Lick Library video tutorial.
About Jimi Hendrix and His Influence
Jimi Hendrix is often hailed as one of the most innovative and influential guitarists in history. His ability to blend blues, rock, and soul into a unique, emotive sound redefined the role of the guitar in modern music. On “The Wind Cries Mary,” Hendrix demonstrates his mastery of melody, dynamics, and subtle improvisation. The song features a smooth, lyrical quality that showcases Hendrix’s ability to weave emotional depth into every note. For guitarists, studying this track offers insight into Hendrix’s nuanced approach to tone, phrasing, and technique.
Guitar Techniques Highlighted in the Lesson
Chord Progressions and Inversions
The song’s foundation lies in its fluid chord progressions and use of inversions. Hendrix’s approach to chord voicings creates a rich harmonic backdrop, giving the song its lush and soulful character.
Benefit: Learning these progressions enhances your understanding of how to craft melodies within chords, improving both your rhythm playing and overall musicality.
Hammer-Ons and Pull-Offs
Hendrix seamlessly integrates hammer-ons and pull-offs into his playing, adding fluidity and expression to his lead lines.
Benefit: Mastering these techniques boosts your finger strength and allows for smoother transitions between notes, adding a professional touch to your playing.
String Bending and Bluesy Bends
Iconic Hendrix-style string bending is a cornerstone of this song. Subtle bends inject emotion into the melody, while bluesy bends capture the essence of Hendrix’s blues background.
Benefit: These techniques help you develop better pitch control and an emotive touch, essential for expressive lead playing.
Slides
Hendrix employs slides to create a smooth, vocal-like quality in his playing. These slides link notes seamlessly, adding a sense of continuity to the melody.
Benefit: Practicing slides improves your accuracy and allows you to transition gracefully between positions on the fretboard.
Vibrato
The expressive vibrato in “The Wind Cries Mary” adds a soulful dimension to the track. Hendrix’s control over this technique brings his notes to life.
Benefit: Learning vibrato enhances your tone and emotional expression, allowing you to add depth to your playing.
Arpeggios
The use of arpeggios in the chord progressions adds a shimmering texture to the song, highlighting Hendrix's intricate fingerpicking approach.
Benefit: Practicing arpeggios improves finger independence and builds a foundation for understanding complex melodic structures.
Double Stops
Hendrix employs double stops to create harmonically rich fills. These small but impactful moments enhance the overall arrangement of the song.
Benefit: Double stops expand your fretboard knowledge and open up new possibilities for harmonised lead playing.
Why Learn "The Wind Cries Mary"?
By diving into this lesson, you'll gain:
- A deeper understanding of Hendrix’s innovative playing style.
- Improved technique, tone control, and musical phrasing.
- The ability to integrate advanced techniques like vibrato, string bending, and hammer-ons into your own playing.
This song is perfect for intermediate players looking to challenge themselves and for advanced guitarists aiming to refine their skillset.
Guitar Techniques Used in the Lesson
Unlock the magic of Hendrix’s “The Wind Cries Mary” and take your playing to the next level with this comprehensive lesson. Dive into the nuances, master the techniques, and transform your guitar journey today!





