Master "Rockin' in the Free World" by Neil Young with Licklibrary

Explore Iconic Rock Techniques with Neil Young's AnthemDive into the gritty rock textures of Neil Young’s "Rockin' in the Free World," a song that not only resonates with its powerful lyrics but also with its compelling guitar techniques. This Licklibrary guitar lesson meticulously unpacks the song, highlighting essential techniques that define Neil Young’s guitar playing and offering an immersive learning experience for guitarists looking to capture the raw energy of classic rock. This lesson taught by Sam Bell.

Essential Guitar Techniques Featured in "Rockin' in the Free World"

String Bending

String bending is crucial for adding emotional expression to guitar solos and melodies. In "Rockin' in the Free World," Neil Young employs bends to convey the song’s passionate and rallying cry. Mastering this technique allows you to infuse your solos with a sense of urgency and emotion, making them more impactful and memorable.

Hammer-Ons

Hammer-ons are integral to creating fluid, connected notes with a legato effect in rock music. Neil Young uses hammer-ons to transition smoothly between notes, giving his playing a seamless quality that enhances the song’s driving rhythm. This technique is essential for any guitarist looking to add smoothness and speed to their playing without compromising on power.

Vibrato

Vibrato is a technique where the pitch of a note is subtly oscillated, adding richness and depth. In this song, vibrato is used to enhance sustained notes and chords, giving them a vibrant, living quality. This technique is key to making long notes more expressive and is a staple in the arsenal of any rock guitarist.

Power Chords

Power chords form the backbone of "Rockin' in the Free World," driving the song’s anthemic and robust sound. These chords are simple yet effective, providing a thick, powerful sound that stands at the core of rock music. Learning power chords is fundamental for any guitarist aspiring to play rock music, as they provide a solid foundation for both rhythm and lead roles.

The Influence of Neil Young

Neil Young is not just a prolific songwriter but also an iconic guitarist whose style has shaped the sound of rock music. Known for his distinctive playing and unique sound, Young’s influence is evident in the way he blends raw emotion with straightforward, impactful guitar techniques. His approach to guitar playing in "Rockin' in the Free World" showcases his ability to turn simple riffs into powerful musical statements, making his techniques worthwhile for any guitarist to learn.

Benefits of Learning These Techniques

These guitar techniques are not just about playing "Rockin' in the Free World"; they are about understanding the elements that make rock music resonate so deeply with audiences. Learning these techniques will expand your expressive range, improve your technical ability, and enhance your overall musicality. Each technique offers a different benefit, from the emotional depth of string bending and vibrato to the rhythmic drive of hammer-ons and power chords, equipping you with the tools to play more expressively and powerfully.

List of Guitar Techniques Used in Our Lessons

• String Bending
• Hammer-Ons
• Vibrato
• Power Chords

Enroll in our guitar lesson for "Rockin' in the Free World" by Neil Young at Licklibrary to harness these powerful techniques and bring energy and authenticity to your guitar playing. This lesson will not only teach you how to play this iconic song but also delve into the style and impact of one of rock music’s greatest figures.