Lights Out by UFO

Dive into the electrifying world of UFO’s classic track, Lights Out. This note-for-note guitar lesson from Licklibrary.com unpacks the iconic riffs, solos, and rhythms that make this track legendary. Perfect for both intermediate and advanced players, the lesson explores the techniques used by UFO's guitarists to create their timeless sound. Not only will you master Lights Out, but you'll also enrich your playing by incorporating these dynamic techniques into your own style. Dave Kilminster breaks down this classic track in this exclusive Lick Library video tutorial.

About the Guitar Players

Lights Out features the masterful guitar work of Michael Schenker, one of rock's most influential guitarists. Known for his soaring solos, melodic phrasing, and technical prowess, Schenker is a cornerstone of classic rock guitar. His innovative style has inspired countless players, from Kirk Hammett to Randy Rhoads. Through this lesson, you’ll gain insight into his techniques, tone, and the artistry that cemented his place in rock history.

Techniques Explored in the Lesson

Power Chords and Palm Muting

The song's driving rhythm is built on power chords, complemented by tight, percussive palm muting. These techniques are essential for creating the punchy, aggressive tone that defines hard rock. Mastering this will help you improve rhythm control and add depth to your chord progressions.

Vibrato and String Bending

Schenker's expressive lead work features smooth vibrato and precise string bending. Vibrato adds emotion to sustained notes, while bending brings life to the melody. These techniques enhance your phrasing and improve your ability to convey emotion through your playing.

Dual Guitar Harmonies

The harmonised guitar parts in Lights Out are quintessential UFO, showcasing intricate interplay between lead and rhythm sections. Learning these harmonies will deepen your understanding of melodic construction and elevate your ensemble playing.

Legato and Hammer-Ons

Schenker’s fluid legato passages and hammer-ons make his solos a seamless cascade of notes. These techniques boost finger strength and speed, enabling smoother transitions between notes.

Slides and Rakes

Tasteful slides and rakes give the solos a dynamic and polished sound. Slides connect phrases with a smooth flow, while rakes emphasise specific notes for dramatic effect. Incorporating these into your playing will add flair to your solos.

Arpeggios and Chord Progressions

The song’s structure is anchored in creative arpeggios and chord progressions. Studying these will expand your chord vocabulary and inspire new approaches to composition.

Pinched Harmonics

Schenker’s use of pinched harmonics adds bite and texture to key notes. Mastering this technique enhances your tonal versatility and allows you to explore new sonic possibilities.

Alternate Picking

Fast alternate picking defines the intricate solos in Lights Out. Practicing this technique develops precision and speed, essential for tackling challenging leads.

String-Bending Techniques

Schenker employs advanced string-bending techniques, such as pre-bends and bluesy bends, to infuse his solos with emotion and character. These methods improve your pitch control and stylistic expression.

Why Learn These Techniques?

Each of these techniques offers unique benefits for guitarists of all levels. Whether you're building foundational skills or refining advanced techniques, this lesson provides a comprehensive toolkit for tackling Lights Out and beyond. By mastering these methods, you'll enhance your technical proficiency, musicality, and confidence as a guitarist.

Guitar Techniques Used in This Lesson

Here is a list of guitar techniques featured in the Lights Out lesson, with links to explore them further:

• Vibrato
• Alternate Picking
• Legato
• Pinched Harmonics
• Hammer-Ons
• Slides
• Rakes
• Palm Muting
• Arpeggios
• Power Chords
• String Bending
• Dual Guitar Harmonies
• Bluesy Bends

With this lesson, you'll uncover the magic behind Lights Out and elevate your guitar playing with timeless techniques. Whether you’re a fan of UFO or simply looking to expand your skills, this is a must-learn track for any serious guitarist.