“Turn to Stone” by Joe Walsh

Take your guitar playing to the next level with Licklibrary’s in-depth lesson on Joe Walsh’s classic rock anthem, “Turn to Stone.” This note-for-note tutorial dissects every nuance of the song’s guitar work, allowing players to master not just the parts, but the feeling and finesse behind them. Known for its gritty tones, expressive phrasing, and rhythmic intensity, “Turn to Stone” offers a wealth of techniques that are essential for any guitarist looking to expand their rock vocabulary. Danny Gill breaks down this classic track in this exclusive Lick Library video tutorial.

About the Song and the Guitarist

Originally released by Joe Walsh in 1972 and later re-recorded with the Eagles, “Turn to Stone” is a politically charged, hard-hitting track that captures the turmoil of its time through music. Joe Walsh, renowned for his distinctive tone and creative approach to guitar playing, delivers a powerful performance brimming with attitude and technique.

Walsh’s contribution to rock guitar spans decades, and his style combines bluesy expressiveness with wild effects and inventive phrasing. Whether with the James Gang, as a solo artist, or with the Eagles, Walsh’s playing has influenced generations of guitarists. “Turn to Stone” is a prime example of his command over tone, groove, and dynamics, making it a must-learn for any serious rock guitarist.

Lesson Breakdown – Techniques You’ll Learn

String Bending

One of the defining features of Joe Walsh’s lead work is his expressive use of string bending. In this lesson, you’ll explore various types of bends including whole-step, half-step, and pre-bends. String bending adds emotional intensity and vocal-like phrasing to solos. Learning to control bends accurately improves pitch recognition and strengthens your fretting hand.

Vibrato

Closely tied to bending, vibrato is used extensively throughout “Turn to Stone.” Walsh’s vibrato is wide and soulful, giving sustain and drama to held notes. Developing a controlled vibrato enhances musicality and adds polish to any lead playing.

Slides

Slides are frequently used to connect notes and create fluid transitions in both rhythm and lead parts. Mastering slides improves finger dexterity and helps develop smooth phrasing.

Power Chords

The song’s driving rhythm section is built on power chords, delivering a tight and punchy foundation. Learning to play power chords cleanly is vital for any rock guitarist and contributes to strong rhythm playing.

Palm Muting

To control dynamics and add rhythmic tightness, palm muting is applied throughout the track. This technique gives riffs more precision and percussive feel, especially during the more aggressive sections.

Hammer-Ons and Pull-Offs

These two essential legato techniques are used to add speed and articulation in both rhythm and lead licks. Practicing hammer-ons and pull-offs builds finger strength and allows for smoother, more expressive playing.

Double Stops

Walsh incorporates double stops to add harmony and texture to lead phrases. This technique is great for expanding your melodic range and gives solos a fuller, more dynamic sound.

Unison Bends

A signature move in rock soloing, unison bends create a powerful, tension-filled effect. This lesson will show how Joe Walsh uses this to add intensity to his licks and how you can use it to spice up your own solos.

Alternate Picking

The fast-paced rhythm work and some intricate licks in the solo sections benefit from clean, efficient alternate picking. This essential technique improves timing, speed, and overall precision.

Syncopated Rhythms

“Turn to Stone” also includes dynamic and complex syncopated rhythms, which challenge your sense of timing and groove. Practicing these rhythms improves rhythmic accuracy and helps develop tighter ensemble playing.

Why Learn “Turn to Stone”?

Learning “Turn to Stone” not only gives you access to a classic rock staple, but it also sharpens your technical skillset and stylistic awareness. Every riff and solo teaches a valuable lesson in phrasing, timing, and tonal control. Plus, studying a song from a master like Joe Walsh helps you understand how to inject personality into your playing. Whether you're preparing for live performance, session work, or just expanding your musical toolbox, this lesson will give you authentic rock vocabulary you can use in countless situations.

Guitar Techniques Covered

• String Bending
• Vibrato
• Slides
• Power Chords
• Palm Muting
• Hammer-Ons
• Pull-Offs
• Double Stops
• Unison Bends
• Alternate Picking
• Syncopated Rhythms