Johnny the Fox Meets Jimmy the Weed: Guitar Lesson

The Song and Its Album Context

"Johnny the Fox Meets Jimmy the Weed" from Thin Lizzy's live album 'Live and Dangerous' is a masterclass in rock guitar musicianship. The live album itself was released in 1978 and showcased the band's artistic and technical capabilities. What makes the song truly shine are the intricate guitar parts, helmed by Scott Gorham and Brian Robertson, two extraordinarily talented guitarists who were part of Thin Lizzy at the time. Danny Gill breaks down each note to this live favourite.

Chord Progressions and Scales

The song's chord progressions are centred around a solid A-minor foundation. This lends itself well to the A Minor Pentatonic and A Dorian scales, both of which are frequently used throughout the song. These scales offer a rich tonal palette that the guitarists exploit to maximum effect.

During the verses, you'll find a predominantly minor setting, with the chord progression going A minor to G major, then to F major and E minor. This builds tension that resolves beautifully each time the progression cycles.

Lead Guitar and Solo Analysis

The dual lead guitar work is a standout feature. During the solos, each guitarist takes their turn to carve out a musical statement. Scott Gorham's playing is smooth and melodic, with a tendency to employ blues-based licks and nuanced string bends. Brian Robertson, on the other hand, is more aggressive with his note choices, favouring quicker runs and legato phrases.

The solo sections themselves are a beautiful blend of Phrygian and Dorian scales, allowing for a more exotic sound. This is framed perfectly within the context of a simpler A minor and G major background, giving it a contrasting flavour.

Lead Guitarists: Scott Gorham and Brian Robertson

Scott Gorham’s playing on this track oozes with finesse. His approach is more melodic and nuanced. The way he navigates through scales and inserts tasteful blues notes makes his playing sing. On the other hand, Brian Robertson brings raw energy and drive. His phrasing is full of fast alternate-picked runs, and his aggressive bends are a testament to his technical mastery.

Both guitarists showcase their individual styles but remain impeccably tight throughout the performance. Their tones, while distinct, complement each other perfectly. Scott usually opts for a smooth, creamy tone while Brian tends to have a more cutting sound.

Techniques and Their Impact

The combination of techniques used in this song is one reason why it's a staple for guitarists who want to delve into rock and blues-oriented playing. From the standard alternate picking to the more nuanced double-stop bends, each technique serves a musical purpose and adds to the narrative of the song.

List of Guitar Techniques Used

• Vibrato
• Alternate Picking
• Legato
• Double-Stop Bends
• Unison Bends
• Chord Progressions
• Arpeggios
• Pull-Offs
• Power Chords
• String Bending
• Hammer-Ons
• Double-Stops

"Johnny the Fox Meets Jimmy the Weed" is a rich study in rock guitar techniques, delivering a compelling musical experience while offering an array of lessons for the aspiring guitarist. With its tight rhythm, innovative chord progressions, and electrifying solos, it’s a song that deserves a deep dive into its intricacies. Whether you’re a beginner looking to expand your rock vocabulary or a seasoned player aiming for mastery, this Thin Lizzy classic has something for every guitarist.