Racer X – Into The Night – Main Riff
Get ready to ignite your fretboard with the explosive main riff from Into The Night by Racer X — a blistering showcase of high-octane guitar technique, precision, and power. In this note-for-note guitar lesson from LickLibrary.com, we break down the riff’s complex structure and technical finesse to help you master one of the most iconic moments in shred guitar history. Whether you're an advanced guitarist or an ambitious intermediate, this lesson delivers essential skills that will push your technique to the next level. Danny Gill breaks down this classic track in this exclusive Lick Library video tutorial.
About the Guitarist: Paul Gilbert
The sonic force behind Racer X is none other than Paul Gilbert, one of the most revered guitar virtuosos in the world. Known for his blazing speed, melodic phrasing, and surgical picking accuracy, Gilbert became a household name in the shred community during the late '80s and early '90s. His work with Racer X set a new standard in technical rock guitar, blending classical influences with metal intensity. His influence can be heard across generations of players, from modern prog-metal to fusion and hard rock guitarists. Learning from a master like Gilbert gives players not only technical chops but also an appreciation for musical articulation and tone.
Riff Breakdown and Techniques
Alternate Picking Precision
One of the most prominent techniques in the main riff is alternate picking. This technique requires consistent up-and-down picking motion, and Paul Gilbert’s execution here is razor-sharp. Practicing this riff will significantly improve your picking accuracy and stamina — crucial for fast, articulate playing across strings.
Palm Muting for Rhythmic Control
The riff also utilises palm muting to create dynamic contrast and rhythmic tightness. Muting the lower strings while maintaining attack adds punch to the riff and gives it that signature chugging groove. Mastering palm muting will improve your control over tone and rhythm, especially in high-gain settings.
String Bending with Expression
A few of the melodic figures in the riff incorporate expressive string bending. Gilbert bends with pinpoint pitch control, adding emotion and intensity to the part. Learning to bend accurately enhances your lead playing, helping your solos and riffs sing with vocal-like nuance.
Power Chords and Low-End Drive
The foundation of the riff lies in aggressive power chords. These chords provide the heavy, driving force behind the riff. Developing your power chord technique strengthens your rhythm playing and gives your riffs greater authority and depth.
Slides for Smooth Transition
Another subtle but essential element is the use of slides between positions. Gilbert uses slides both melodically and for position shifts. Practicing this enhances your fretboard navigation and adds fluidity to your phrasing.
Pinched Harmonics for Attitude
Gilbert occasionally throws in sharp, squealing pinched harmonics to give the riff an edge. These harmonic accents cut through the mix and showcase a command of pick control and tone shaping. They’re a valuable tool for adding attitude and flair to your playing.
Syncopated Rhythms for Groove
One of the keys to the riff’s excitement lies in its syncopated rhythms. Gilbert’s phrasing creates tension and release, pushing and pulling against the beat. Developing this rhythmic awareness will enhance your timing, groove, and ability to lock in with a band.
Why Learn This Riff?
Learning the main riff from Into The Night is more than just learning notes — it’s an intensive workout for your right hand, left hand, and musical ear. You'll gain:
- Enhanced alternate picking accuracy
- Greater dynamic control through palm muting
- Improved bending precision and intonation
- Better rhythmic timing with syncopated phrases
- Expression through harmonics and slides
Whether you're gearing up for a live performance, refining your shred chops, or simply looking to understand Paul Gilbert's iconic playing style, this lesson provides invaluable insight into what makes Racer X riffs stand the test of time.
Guitar Techniques Featured in This Lesson
About The Tutor
Tutor Profile
Danny Gill
Danny Gill is, without a doubt, the most loved tutor by our community. With an incredible array of DVDs and web lessons for LickLibrary covering a wide variety of topics all of which he covers with incredible detail, it's no wonder he carries as much respect as he does. As...