Runnin' With The Devil – Solo - Van Halen
Take your guitar playing to the next level with our note-for-note breakdown of the iconic solo from Van Halen’s “Runnin’ With The Devil”. This lesson dives deep into the techniques that made Eddie Van Halen a guitar hero, offering aspiring guitarists an opportunity to develop not only speed and precision but also expression and flair. Danny Gill breaks down this classic track in this exclusive Lick Library video tutorial.
About the Song & Solo
Released in 1978 as the opening track on Van Halen’s self-titled debut album, Runnin’ With The Devil introduced the world to a new guitar hero: Eddie Van Halen. Known for his explosive technique and musical inventiveness, Eddie's solo on this track is deceptively tasteful. Rather than shredding for the sake of speed, he delivers a soulful, calculated lead break that uses dynamics and control to maximum effect. The result is a masterclass in melodic phrasing and subtle flair.
In this lesson, we meticulously break down each section of the solo, showing you exactly how to replicate every note, nuance, and expression that made this performance legendary.
Meet the Guitarist: Eddie Van Halen
Eddie Van Halen revolutionised rock guitar playing in the late 1970s and 1980s. With his unique approach to tone, technique, and improvisation, he brought a fresh voice to hard rock, blending classical influences with high-octane rock 'n' roll energy. His innovations—including two-handed tapping, whammy bar acrobatics, and a signature tone known as the "brown sound"—inspired generations of players. Runnin’ With The Devil may not be his flashiest solo, but it’s a testament to his restraint, taste, and sense of melody.
Techniques Featured in This Lesson
Our in-depth video lesson focuses on the essential techniques used in the Runnin’ With The Devil solo. Each of these is a valuable tool that players can apply across genres and styles.
Vibrato
Vibrato adds emotion and depth to sustained notes by subtly bending and releasing the pitch. Eddie’s controlled vibrato throughout this solo breathes life into each phrase. Mastering vibrato allows guitarists to develop their own unique voice on the instrument and improve note expression.
Slides
Slide techniques are used to transition smoothly between notes, and Eddie uses them to connect melodic phrases seamlessly. Learning slides improves fretboard navigation and phrasing, making your solos more fluid and expressive.
Hammer-ons and Pull-offs
These legato techniques are used to articulate notes smoothly without constant picking. Eddie integrates them effortlessly to maintain flow and speed. Practicing hammer-ons and pull-offs will increase your fluidity and technical dexterity.
String Bending
Eddie’s tasteful string bends are crucial to the emotional intensity of this solo. Bending involves pushing or pulling a string to reach the pitch of a higher note. Learning this technique improves pitch accuracy and musical expression.
Learn more about string bending
Pinched Harmonics
Used for their sharp, squealing sound, pinched harmonics are a standout moment in this solo. Eddie uses them sparingly but effectively. This technique adds character to solos and develops your right-hand control and tone manipulation.
Learn more about pinched harmonics
Palm Muting
Palm muting is used subtly in the solo to control note duration and create contrast. This technique enhances rhythmic control and dynamics, essential for playing both lead and rhythm guitar with finesse.
Benefits of Learning This Solo
Learning the Runnin’ With The Devil solo is a gateway to refining your technical foundation while absorbing the feel and nuance that set Eddie Van Halen apart. You’ll gain:
- Better control over expressive techniques like vibrato and bending.
- Improved legato playing, essential for smooth, connected phrases.
- Insight into phrasing and melodic structure, which helps in improvisation.
- A deeper understanding of tone production through touch and articulation.
- Confidence in applying dynamics, an underrated but powerful musical tool.
This solo doesn’t overwhelm you with speed; instead, it challenges you to play with taste and purpose—hallmarks of a great guitarist.
Guitar Techniques Used in This Lesson
Whether you're an intermediate player looking to build expressive soloing skills or a Van Halen fan wanting to capture Eddie’s signature style, this lesson delivers the tools and knowledge to level up your lead guitar game.
About The Tutor
Tutor Profile
Danny Gill
Danny Gill is, without a doubt, the most loved tutor by our community. With an incredible array of DVDs and web lessons for LickLibrary covering a wide variety of topics all of which he covers with incredible detail, it's no wonder he carries as much respect as he does. As...