A Kind of Magic – Queen

Unlock the legendary sound of Queen with LickLibrary’s note-for-note guitar lesson of “A Kind of Magic”, a timeless classic that showcases the genre-defining guitar work of Brian May. This detailed lesson dissects every nuance, chord, and expressive technique used in the song, allowing guitarists of all levels to experience and master the artistry of one of rock's most iconic bands. Sam Bell breaks down this classic track in this exclusive Lick Library video tutorial.

About the Song and Guitar Work

“A Kind of Magic” was released in 1986 as the lead single from the album of the same name and was prominently featured in the soundtrack for the movie Highlander. While Queen is known for their genre-bending sound, this track leans heavily into their pop-rock sensibilities, driven by atmospheric effects, catchy chord progressions, and melodic lead guitar lines.

Brian May’s guitar work on this track is nothing short of enchanting. From precise rhythm guitar playing to soaring melodic fills, May delivers a masterclass in tone, technique, and tasteful composition. This LickLibrary lesson walks you through every guitar part with crystal clarity, revealing how each phrase and detail contributes to the song’s “magic.”

Guitar Techniques Explored in the Lesson

This lesson is more than just a breakdown—it’s an opportunity to significantly expand your playing vocabulary. Below are the core techniques focused on throughout the lesson and how mastering them will benefit your playing.

Chord Progressions

Queen’s music is built around strong harmonic movement, and “A Kind of Magic” is no exception. Learning the chord progressions in this song helps you understand how to build tension and resolution, key skills for songwriting and improvisation.

Palm Muting

Used to create tight, percussive textures in the rhythm guitar sections, palm muting adds dynamics and groove to your playing. You'll learn to control your attack and shape your tone for a more professional sound.

Slides

Sliding between notes and chords creates smooth, expressive transitions. Mastering slides not only improves your phrasing but also enhances your legato playing and your ability to connect ideas fluidly across the fretboard.

String Bending

This expressive technique is a hallmark of Brian May’s style. You'll learn how to execute controlled bends that stay in tune and convey emotion, a vital skill for soloing and melodic playing.

Vibrato

Brian May’s distinctive vibrato technique gives his playing a vocal-like quality. In this lesson, you’ll develop your vibrato control, which helps add personality and sustain to your notes, making your solos sing.

Hammer-ons and Pull-offs

These legato techniques are essential for fluid playing and quick melodic lines. You’ll improve your finger strength and dexterity, enabling faster and smoother phrasing across various musical styles.

Double Stops

Used to enrich melodies and add harmonic depth, double stops help you incorporate two-note harmonies and fill out your solos with a fuller sound.

The Guitarist Behind the Magic – Brian May

Brian May is one of the most recognisable guitarists in rock history. Known for his melodic phrasing, precise technique, and orchestral approach to guitar layers, May has inspired generations of players. His homemade “Red Special” guitar and unique use of harmonies, delay, and tone-shaping techniques gave Queen their unmistakable sound.

May’s influence can be heard across a wide spectrum of genres, and his work on “A Kind of Magic” is a perfect example of his ability to blend simplicity with sophistication. Learning this track allows guitarists to dive deep into his stylistic approach—balancing strong rhythm work with melodic flair.

Why Learn This Song?

Whether you're a Queen fan or simply looking to expand your playing skills, learning “A Kind of Magic” offers multiple rewards. The song combines technical challenge with musical richness, making it ideal for developing phrasing, timing, and musical expression. The song’s structure also gives players insight into composing tasteful lead lines that complement strong vocal melodies.

By the end of this lesson, you’ll not only be able to play the song note for note but also walk away with improved control, creativity, and a deeper understanding of how to build compelling guitar parts.

Techniques Used in This Lesson

• Chord Progressions
• Palm Muting
• Slides
• String Bending
• Vibrato
• Hammer-ons
• Pull-offs
• Double Stops

Ready to play like Brian May? Dive into our “A Kind of Magic” guitar lesson and unlock the techniques that made Queen a legendary force in rock music. Join LickLibrary today and start your journey into the magic.