"Baby Drives Me Crazy" by Thin Lizzy: Guitar Lesson

The Guitarists

Firstly, let's take a moment to appreciate the dual-guitar wizardry of Scott Gorham and Brian Robertson on this track. Their ability to blend solos and rhythms creates an intricate backdrop for this hard-rocking tune. Gorham is often praised for his melodic sensibilities, while Robertson is a powerhouse of energy and technique. Together, they offer a masterclass in balance, tone, and tasteful rock guitar playing.

Chord Progressions and Scales

The backbone of "Baby Drives Me Crazy" lies in its straightforward but groovy chord progression, predominantly rooted in the bluesy swing of A Major. The primary chords utilised are A, D, and E, fitting comfortably into the A Major scale.

A more exciting aspect comes in with the duality of scale usage. The Major Pentatonic is quite evident but pay attention, and you'll catch traces of the Minor Pentatonic and the Blues Scale as well. These scale choices give a gritty yet melodic appeal to the song, offering more dimensions than what meets the ear initially.

Solo Analysis

Now, onto the good stuff—the solos! Robertson usually kicks off his solos with a blend of blues and rock licks, utilising a lot of the Major Pentatonic Scale. He often alternates between slow, vocal-like phrases and fast licks, and his bending technique is top-notch. Meanwhile, Gorham favours melodic ideas based on the A Major scale, often using alternate picking for a smoother flow.

One particularly captivating segment is where Robertson employs double-stop bends, a technique that elevates the sonic texture of the solo. The unison bends are another highlight, where both guitarists bend different notes to reach the same pitch, creating a pleasing, "chorus-y" effect.

Guitar Techniques

Finally, let's dissect the techniques both guitarists employ to add the fireworks to this great tune:

1. Vibrato: Used liberally to add emotion to the bends and sustained notes.
2. Alternate Picking: Employed especially by Gorham for smoother phrasing.
3. Legato: Fluid passages scattered throughout to provide contrast to the picked notes.
4. Double-Stop Bends: A specialty of Robertson, adding richness to the solo.
5. Unison Bends: Both guitarists engage in this, particularly in the solos.
6. Chord Progressions: The song’s backbone, focusing on A, D, and E major chords.
7. Power Chords: The rhythm guitar parts heavily utilise these for a chunky sound.
8. Hammer-Ons and Pull-Offs: Frequently used for quick embellishments.
9. String-Bending: A hallmark in the solos, often combined with vibrato for extra emotion.

All these techniques, scales, and chords converge to make "Baby Drives Me Crazy" a must-study track for rock guitar aficionados. It's not just a high-energy song; it's a thesis on what makes rock guitar the emotive and dynamic force that it is. From chordal richness to solo sophistication, this song is a microcosm of rock guitar essentials, tied together by the distinct but harmonious stylings of Scott Gorham and Brian Robertson. Whether you're a budding guitarist or a seasoned pro, this track offers lessons in balance, technique, and, most importantly, the art of rocking out. Lick Library veteran, Danny Gill, shows you every nuance of this underrated track.