Learn to Play “Rain” by Status Quo – Taught by Rick Parfitt
If you’re looking to dive into classic British rock guitar with gritty tones, punchy riffs, and raw attitude, our note-for-note guitar lesson on “Rain” by Status Quo is the perfect place to start. Taught by none other than the late great Rick Parfitt himself, this in-depth lesson takes you straight to the heart of Quo’s no-nonsense, bluesy-boogie sound. With a clear focus on authentic playing and precision, you'll develop an arsenal of solid rock techniques while mastering a high-energy anthem from one of the UK’s most legendary rock outfits.
About the Song
“Rain” was released in 1976 and became an instant fan favourite thanks to its infectious riff and driving rhythm. It perfectly captures the essence of Status Quo’s signature sound—simple yet powerful rock that’s built on tight grooves, catchy hooks, and relentless energy. The guitar work in “Rain” is iconic, showcasing Rick Parfitt’s distinct style which blends aggression with control and groove with grit.
Meet the Guitarist – Rick Parfitt and Francis Rossi
Rick Parfitt was known for his rhythm guitar playing that was nothing short of seismic. His percussive attack, powerful downstrokes, and unwavering energy made him a cornerstone of Status Quo’s sound. Alongside Francis Rossi, who brought melody and flair with his lead work, the pair formed one of rock’s most legendary dual-guitar lineups. Their interlocking style created a tight, propulsive wall of sound that has influenced countless rock guitarists over the decades. Learning from Parfitt’s actual performance style gives you a rare opportunity to connect with the soul of classic British rock.
Guitar Techniques Covered in This Lesson
This lesson breaks down the core techniques that make “Rain” such a compelling track to play and learn. Here’s a closer look at each technique and what you’ll gain by mastering them:
Power Chords
A staple of rock guitar, power chords are central to the driving rhythm of “Rain.” You'll learn how to play them with clarity and attack, just like Parfitt. Mastering power chords helps build hand strength and is crucial for rhythm playing in rock and punk styles.
Palm Muting
Adding dynamics and groove, palm muting gives parts of the song a tight, chugging feel. This technique allows you to control the energy and articulation of your playing, and is essential for creating variation in your rhythm work.
Slides
Used for both transitions and expression, slides bring a fluid, vocal-like quality to riffs. You’ll develop better fretboard awareness and smoother movement between positions by incorporating slides into your playing.
String Bending
Bends are used to add vocal-like expression and intensity to solos and fills. You’ll learn how to control pitch and intonation, adding emotional depth to your lead guitar phrases.
Hammer-Ons and Pull-Offs
These fundamental legato techniques appear throughout the song’s riffs and fills. They help you build fluidity and speed, allowing for more expressive and natural-sounding lead lines.
Syncopated Rhythms
The groove in “Rain” relies on tight rhythmic precision. Syncopated accents and off-beat rhythms give the track its bounce and feel. Practicing these will improve your timing and rhythmic confidence.
Double Stops
Used to thicken up certain riff sections, double stops add harmonic interest and weight. Learning to play these cleanly strengthens finger independence and adds a bluesy flavour to your licks.
Open String Riffs
The main riff makes great use of open strings, giving it a jangly, aggressive edge. Mastering open string riffs will help you improve picking accuracy and create bigger sounds with less effort.
Why Learn “Rain”?
Besides being a straight-up rock banger, “Rain” is a masterclass in effective guitar playing. There’s no fluff—just pure tone, timing, and feel. You’ll sharpen your rhythm playing, improve your technique, and gain valuable insight into the mindset of one of rock’s great rhythm players. Whether you're jamming with friends, performing live, or just playing for yourself, the techniques learned here will make your playing tighter, more confident, and more authentic.
Techniques Used in This Lesson
- Power Chords
- Palm Muting
- Slides
- String Bending
- Hammer-Ons
- Pull-Offs
- Syncopated Rhythms
- Double Stops
- Open String Riffs
Ready to plug in and turn it up? Let Rick Parfitt guide you through the timeless rock energy of “Rain” and elevate your playing to stadium-ready levels.
