The Spirit of Radio by Rush

"The Spirit of Radio" by Rush is a masterclass in progressive rock guitar work, combining sophisticated composition with an eclectic mix of techniques that challenge and inspire guitarists. At Licklibrary.com, our note-for-note guitar lesson for this classic track walks players through every nuance of Alex Lifeson's performance, breaking down the song into digestible segments with detailed explanations of the techniques used. Whether you're looking to sharpen your skills or dive into the style of one of rock’s most iconic guitarists, this lesson offers a rewarding and comprehensive journey. Danny Gill breaks down this classic track in this exclusive Lick Library video tutorial.

About the Song and Its Players

Released in 1980 as the opening track on Rush’s Permanent Waves album, "The Spirit of Radio" marked a shift in the band's sound, integrating more concise song structures while still maintaining their progressive edge. The song became one of Rush’s most beloved and enduring tracks.

The guitar work on this track is courtesy of Alex Lifeson, a guitarist known for his dynamic and textured playing. Lifeson’s style bridges the melodic and the experimental, effortlessly weaving between tight rhythmic passages and soaring lead lines. He was instrumental in shaping the progressive rock guitar vocabulary, and his approach continues to influence players worldwide. Lifeson’s tone, phrasing, and technical proficiency are all on full display in "The Spirit of Radio," making it a treasure trove for aspiring guitarists.

Song Breakdown and Guitar Techniques

Introduction Riff – Alternate Picking, Palm Muting, Open String Riffs

The opening riff is instantly recognisable and serves as a great workout for alternate picking and palm muting. The tight, percussive attack combined with rapid picking patterns offers a lesson in precision and timing.

Benefit: These techniques help players develop control and clarity, essential for executing fast and articulate riffs cleanly.

Main Verse – Arpeggios and Chord Progressions

During the verses, Lifeson employs lush arpeggios and clever chord progressions. His use of suspended chords and non-standard voicings showcases his sophisticated harmonic sense.

Benefit: Learning these passages improves fretboard knowledge and enhances your understanding of harmonic movement.

Chorus – Power Chords and Barre Chords

The choruses shift into more driving territory with the use of power chords and barre chords. Lifeson’s rhythmic phrasing remains complex, demanding tight execution.

Benefit: These techniques build strength and stamina in the fretting hand, crucial for rhythm playing.

Reggae-Inspired Bridge – Syncopated Rhythms and Finger-Picking

In a surprising twist, the song briefly moves into a reggae groove, calling for syncopated rhythms and subtle finger-picking.

Benefit: Practicing these elements enhances timing and rhythmic versatility, enabling you to play across genres with confidence.

Guitar Solo – String Bending, Trills, Legato, Hammer-Ons & Pull-Offs

The solo is a melting pot of melodic expression. It features expressive string bending, fast trills, seamless legato runs, and classic hammer-ons and pull-offs.

Benefit: These techniques enhance phrasing and speed, allowing for more fluid and emotional solos.

Outro Section – Slides and Vibrato

As the track winds down, Lifeson uses tasteful slides and expressive vibrato to carry the song to its conclusion, ending with a dynamic and emotive flourish.

Benefit: Mastering these expressive tools gives your playing personality and depth, making solos more memorable and musical.

Techniques Covered in This Lesson

• Alternate Picking
• Palm Muting
• Open String Riffs
• Arpeggios
• Chord Progressions
• Power Chords
• Barre Chords
• Syncopated Rhythms
• Finger-Picking
• String Bending
• Trills
• Legato
• Hammer-Ons
• Pull-Offs
• Slides
• Vibrato

By studying "The Spirit of Radio" through this Licklibrary.com guitar lesson, guitarists gain invaluable insight into Alex Lifeson's playing while developing a range of advanced and expressive techniques. Whether you're an intermediate guitarist looking to push your limits or a fan of Rush eager to understand their magic, this lesson delivers a powerful learning experience.