A Little Too Loose by Mr. Big

Get ready to dive into the soulful, expressive, and technically dazzling world of Mr. Big with Licklibrary’s note-for-note guitar lesson for “A Little Too Loose.” This track, taken from the band’s celebrated Lean Into It album, showcases the signature blend of bluesy phrasing, searing rock tone, and virtuosic control that made Paul Gilbert one of the most admired guitarists of his generation.

In this in-depth Licklibrary guitar lesson, every riff, lick, and solo section is broken down in detail, allowing players to not only master the song note for note, but also internalise the signature techniques and phrasing concepts that define Paul Gilbert’s playing style. Whether you’re aiming to expand your soloing vocabulary or improve your articulation and dynamics, this lesson provides a masterclass in expressive, high-level guitar performance. Sam Bell breaks down this classic track in this exclusive Lick Library video tutorial.

About the Song and Guitar Style

“A Little Too Loose” captures the bluesy, melodic side of Mr. Big, perfectly balancing technical fireworks with heartfelt expression. Built around a mid-tempo groove, the track features both clean and overdriven tones, weaving together dynamic rhythm work and fiery lead passages. The song’s guitar solo demonstrates Paul Gilbert’s unique approach — combining traditional blues bends and phrasing with advanced rock techniques such as legato runs, pinched harmonics, and precise alternate picking.

The result is a solo that feels equally emotional and virtuosic — a perfect study piece for any guitarist seeking to blend feel and technicality in a cohesive, musical way.

About the Guitarist – Paul Gilbert

Paul Gilbert stands among the elite few who bridge the gap between shred and soul. Known for his work with Racer X and Mr. Big, Gilbert’s playing combines blinding speed with a deep understanding of melody and groove. His inventive use of techniques such as string skipping, hybrid picking, and rapid alternate picking revolutionised modern guitar playing, influencing countless guitarists worldwide.

In “A Little Too Loose,” Gilbert shows his more restrained, blues-oriented side — channeling a tone reminiscent of classic blues-rock players like Eric Clapton and Billy Gibbons, while maintaining the technical precision and flair that define his style. His playing on this track provides an invaluable study in how to balance technical skill with expressive emotion.

Techniques Covered in This Lesson

Each technique featured in this Licklibrary lesson has been carefully chosen to help guitarists refine essential skills while capturing the nuances of Gilbert’s playing.

Vibrato

This lesson emphasises vibrato as a cornerstone of expressive lead playing. Students learn to control pitch movement and timing, giving their notes that singing, vocal-like quality heard in Gilbert’s solos. Developing a smooth vibrato enhances sustain and adds emotion to phrasing.

String Bending

“A Little Too Loose” is filled with string bends that push emotional phrasing to the forefront. These bends are about more than technique — they teach pitch accuracy and control, helping you hit those expressive, bluesy intervals with confidence.

Legato

Gilbert’s signature smoothness comes from his masterful legato technique. This lesson breaks down hammer-ons, pull-offs, and slides to create flowing, effortless lines. Mastering legato improves speed, endurance, and tonal consistency across the fretboard.

Alternate Picking

Precision and rhythmic clarity are key in the song’s faster passages. The alternate picking exercises in this lesson build synchronisation between both hands and refine your articulation — vital for tight, clean runs and consistent tone.

Slides

Slides connect phrases fluidly, adding motion and dynamics. This lesson explores how Gilbert uses slides to transition between licks and to give a vocal-like phrasing that blends perfectly with his expressive vibrato.

Double Stops

Bluesy double stops bring harmonic richness to Gilbert’s solos. They also strengthen fretting-hand control and help you develop a fuller, more powerful sound during leads or fills.

Pinched Harmonics

This technique adds the signature squeal and attitude often heard in rock solos. Mastering pinched harmonics allows players to inject extra character and intensity into their playing, a hallmark of Gilbert’s style.

Palm Muting

The rhythm sections in this song use palm muting for tight, percussive control, particularly during verses. Learning this technique enhances precision, dynamic contrast, and groove.

Arpeggios

This lesson also touches on Gilbert’s use of arpeggios to outline chords melodically during solos. Understanding arpeggio patterns deepens fretboard knowledge and improves solo construction skills.

Why Learn “A Little Too Loose”

Learning this track offers an incredible opportunity to develop both technical mastery and musical expression. Players gain practical insight into blending blues-rock phrasing with advanced techniques, while exploring tone control, timing, and melodic structure. Beyond the mechanics, “A Little Too Loose” teaches the importance of phrasing — when to play fast, when to hold back, and how to make each note count.

Whether you’re a fan of Mr. Big, a Paul Gilbert enthusiast, or simply looking to strengthen your rock and blues vocabulary, this lesson from Licklibrary offers a rewarding challenge and a wealth of musical inspiration.

Techniques Used in This Lesson

• Vibrato
• String Bending
• Legato
• Alternate Picking
• Slides
• Double Stops
• Pinched Harmonics
• Palm Muting
• Arpeggios