Change It by Stevie Ray Vaughan

Stevie Ray Vaughan's "Change It" is a brilliant example of his mastery over blues guitar, incorporating a rich blend of classic techniques with a modern edge. For guitarists looking to expand their blues vocabulary and improve their overall musicianship, this song offers an exceptional platform. In this note-for-note guitar lesson on "Change It," we break down the key techniques used by Stevie Ray Vaughan, focusing on the elements that give the song its unique character.

Whether you're an intermediate player or more advanced, studying this song will provide valuable insights into SRV’s approach to phrasing, tone, and the use of dynamics. Below, we'll explore the techniques found in "Change It" and explain how mastering these elements will enhance your guitar playing. Jamie Humphries breaks down this iconic blues track in this exclusive Lick Library video tutorial.

About Stevie Ray Vaughan

Stevie Ray Vaughan was one of the most influential blues guitarists of the 20th century. Blending the Texas blues tradition with rock and roll energy, Vaughan revolutionised blues guitar by reintroducing its raw power to a modern audience. His command over dynamics, phrasing, and his unique ability to infuse soul into every note made him a standout performer. On "Change It," Stevie demonstrates his ability to craft powerful, emotive solos while keeping the groove solid, making this track a must-learn for blues aficionados.

Techniques Used in "Change It"

String Bending

String bending is a signature technique in Stevie Ray Vaughan's playing, and "Change It" is no exception. SRV frequently uses bends to add emotion to his licks, varying from subtle bluesy bends to dramatic full-step bends. In this lesson, we cover how Vaughan executes bends with precise control and musicality.

Benefit: Mastering string bending allows guitarists to create expressive, vocal-like phrasing. Learning this technique will help you convey emotion through your playing and add a dynamic edge to your solos.

Learn more about string bending.

Vibrato

Vibrato is a crucial element in Stevie Ray Vaughan’s expressive guitar style. His controlled and wide vibrato brings life to the notes, giving them a singing quality that helps sustain the emotional intensity of his solos. In the lesson, you’ll learn how to apply vibrato effectively, emulating Vaughan’s signature feel.

Benefit: A well-executed vibrato adds depth to your playing by sustaining and enriching notes, making them stand out with clarity and emotion.

Learn more about vibrato.

Bluesy Bends

Bluesy bends, characterised by their subtle microtonal movements, are at the heart of Vaughan's phrasing in "Change It." These bends are often used to mimic the wailing quality of the human voice, creating tension and release in solos.

Benefit: Developing this bending style enables guitarists to capture the nuances of blues phrasing, helping you sound more authentic and grounded in the blues tradition.

Learn more about bluesy bends.

Double Stops

Double stops feature prominently in "Change It," particularly in Vaughan’s rhythm playing. This technique involves playing two notes simultaneously, which adds harmonic richness to a guitar part. In the lesson, you'll explore how Vaughan uses double stops to create tension and texture.

Benefit: Mastering double stops opens up new harmonic possibilities, adding a fuller sound to your rhythm and lead playing.

Learn more about double stops.

Slides

Sliding into notes is another subtle yet powerful technique that Stevie Ray Vaughan uses throughout "Change It." These slides allow him to smoothly transition between notes, adding fluidity and grace to his solos. The lesson covers how to execute slides seamlessly, allowing for smoother phrasing.

Benefit: Incorporating slides into your playing improves the smoothness and legato of your phrasing, making your solos feel more connected and effortless.

Learn more about slides.

Hammer-ons and Pull-offs

Hammer-ons and pull-offs are key techniques that allow Vaughan to play fast, fluid licks without picking every note. These legato techniques are central to his playing, helping to create his smooth, flowing lead lines.

Benefit: Learning hammer-ons and pull-offs enhances your speed and fluidity while minimising pick noise, making your playing more melodic and natural.

Learn more about hammer-ons.

Learn more about pull-offs.

Rakes

Rakes are used by Stevie Ray Vaughan to emphasise specific notes or create a percussive, muted effect leading into a note. This technique is perfect for adding drama and intensity to your playing. The lesson focuses on how Vaughan uses rakes to add tension and texture to his solos.

Benefit: Adding rakes to your toolkit will give your playing a more aggressive and percussive edge, allowing you to create tension and release effectively.

Learn more about rakes.

Alternate Picking

In "Change It," Vaughan demonstrates his ability to mix fluid legato passages with precise alternate picking. This combination creates a balanced, dynamic sound that keeps the listener engaged. The lesson will break down how to incorporate alternate picking into fast, clean runs.

Benefit: Mastering alternate picking increases your picking accuracy and speed, enabling you to play faster and more complex phrases with clarity.

Learn more about alternate picking.

Chord Progressions

The chord progression in "Change It" follows a traditional blues structure, but Vaughan adds his signature embellishments and rhythmic flair to make it stand out. This lesson will cover how to navigate the chord changes, incorporate rhythmic variations, and add embellishments.

Benefit: Understanding chord progressions will improve your rhythm playing and help you connect lead lines with underlying harmony, making you a more versatile player.

Learn more about chord progressions.

Guitar Techniques Used in "Change It"

• Vibrato
• Alternate Picking
• Hammer-ons
• Pull-offs
• Rakes
• Slides
• Bluesy Bends
• String Bending
• Double Stops
• Chord Progressions

Learning these techniques through Stevie Ray Vaughan’s "Change It" will elevate your playing by giving you a deeper understanding of blues guitar, while also expanding your technical and musical abilities.