"The Rocker" from 'Live and Dangerous' by Thin Lizzy: Guitar Lesson

Ah, "The Rocker" from Thin Lizzy’s album 'Live and Dangerous'—this track is a bonafide guitar anthem. From its first crunchy power chords to its blistering solos, this song is a masterclass in rock guitar techniques. If you're looking to understand what makes this song tick, you're in for a treat. Danny Gill breaks down this classic track in its entirety.

Guitar Chords and Scales

The song kicks off with roaring power chords that are primarily rooted in the E pentatonic minor scale. You'll find the classic I-IV-V progression, featuring E5, A5, and B5 power chords. But don't let the simplicity of the chords fool you; the magic is in the delivery and embellishment. As for the solos, they drift into the realm of E natural minor and E Mixolydian, giving them both the bluesy sorrow and the optimistic, rock-driven sound.

Lead Guitarists and Their Approach

The lead work is primarily divided between Scott Gorham and Brian Robertson, both of whom have unique styles but gel perfectly to make Thin Lizzy’s distinctive twin lead guitar sound. Gorham's lines are smooth, relying on melodic phrasing and tasteful use of techniques like vibrato. Robertson, on the other hand, is the more aggressive of the duo, throwing in rapid alternate picking and wild bends. When they harmonise, usually in thirds or sixths, it's pure magic—a sound that is instantly recognisable as Thin Lizzy.

Solo Analysis

The solos are where "The Rocker" truly shines. They begin in the realm of the E pentatonic minor, the go-to scale for most rock solos. But then they veer into the natural minor for some melodic depth, and finally into the Mixolydian mode to add a dash of brightness. The solos are not just a series of licks; they are a story, a crescendo that builds up from subtle nuances to explosive expressions.

The solo sections incorporate a variety of techniques such as string bending, double-stops, and unison bends. The result is a concoction of melodies, harmonies, and sheer rock and roll aggression. It's hard to pick apart every single phrase in the solo, but one of the standout moments is when the lead guitar goes into a high register, using tapped harmonics to give a "bell-like" quality to the notes.

Guitar Techniques Used in The Rocker

• Vibrato
• Alternate Picking
• Legato
• Tapped Harmonics
• Double-Stop Bends
• Unison Bends
• Pinched Harmonics
• Chord Progressions
• Power Chords

Whether you're a beginner or a seasoned player, dissecting "The Rocker" is both a pleasure and an education. Thin Lizzy didn’t just write songs; they created anthems that showcased what rock guitars are supposed to sound like. From their choice of chords and scales to their impeccable lead work, "The Rocker" is a timeless example of great rock guitar craftsmanship. Take the time to delve into each section, understand the scales, pick apart the solos, and most importantly, make it your own. Happy rocking!