Classic Albums – Dr. Feelgood by Mötley Crüe

Take a deep dive into the hard-rocking world of Mötley Crüe with LickLibrary’s Classic Albums – Dr. Feelgood guitar lesson series. This iconic album, released in 1989, defined a generation of arena rock and set the standard for polished, hard-edged guitar work. In this note-for-note breakdown, you'll learn how to play each riff, solo, and rhythm part from one of the most successful glam metal records of all time, while mastering the guitar techniques that brought Mötley Crüe’s sound to life. Danny Gill breaks down this classic album in this exclusive Lick Library video course.

About the Guitarist – Mick Mars

At the core of Dr. Feelgood is Mick Mars, the band’s lead guitarist, whose distinctive tone and aggressive style carved out a sound that was both ferocious and melodic. Mars is known for his gritty vibrato, clever phrasing, and ability to inject blues-based sensibility into glam metal’s theatrical structure. Despite facing significant health issues, his determination and unique guitar voice have made him one of the most respected figures in hard rock guitar. His playing on Dr. Feelgood influenced countless guitarists, offering a perfect mix of flashy technique and tasteful songwriting.

What You’ll Learn in This Guitar Lesson Series

The Classic Albums – Dr. Feelgood guitar lessons from LickLibrary take you on a song-by-song journey, helping you unlock the secrets behind this legendary album. Each track is meticulously taught by expert tutors, focusing on the unique guitar techniques that make up the album’s musical DNA. Here's what you'll gain from studying this classic:

String Bending and Bluesy Bends

Mars uses string bending and bluesy bends throughout the record to add vocal-like expressiveness to his solos. Learning this will improve your ability to shape notes, create tension, and inject personality into your lead work.

Pinched Harmonics

Tracks like “Kickstart My Heart” feature screaming pinched harmonics, adding an aggressive edge to riffs and solos. Mastering this technique will give your playing that high-octane sound perfect for rock and metal.

Power Chords and Palm Muting

Mars’s rhythm playing is built on solid power chords and tight palm muting, which drive the songs with precision. These are essential techniques for any rhythm guitarist and help in building strong, punchy foundations for any song.

Vibrato

His distinctive vibrato technique gives notes more character and sustain. A controlled vibrato adds a professional sheen to solos and improves your overall lead phrasing.

Alternate Picking and Tremolo Picking

Tracks like “Dr. Feelgood” require tight alternate picking and high-speed tremolo picking, boosting your right-hand control and speed — vital for any rock or metal guitarist.

Unison Bends and Double Stop Bends

Songs like “Same Ol' Situation (S.O.S.)” incorporate expressive unison bends and double stop bends. These add vocal-like harmony to your soloing and expand your bending vocabulary.

Slides and Hammer-Ons/Pull-Offs

Guitar phrases are often connected by slides, hammer-ons, and pull-offs, giving the licks fluidity and speed. These legato techniques allow for smooth transitions and expressive leads.

Whammy Bar Tricks and Dive Bombs

Mars’s use of whammy bar tricks and dive bombs add explosive drama to his solos. Learning this will enhance your ability to create dynamic, ear-catching effects on the guitar.

Arpeggios and Dual Guitar Harmonies

In some of the ballads and bridges, arpeggios and dual guitar harmonies come into play, adding melodic depth. These help develop your fretboard knowledge and lead/rhythm interplay.

Benefits of Learning Dr. Feelgood

By mastering the techniques found in Dr. Feelgood, you’ll be enhancing a wide range of guitar skills. From rhythm precision to lead accuracy, you'll become a more versatile guitarist. These lessons offer:

Improved technical control through fast picking and muting.
Greater expression via bending, vibrato, and harmonics.
Expanded soloing vocabulary including whammy techniques and legato runs.
Stronger fretboard fluency through arpeggios and harmonised lines.
Rhythmic tightness using palm-muted riffs and syncopated patterns.

Whether you're a fan of Mötley Crüe or simply want to strengthen your rock guitar foundation, this series offers the perfect blend of musical education and high-energy fun.

Guitar Techniques Featured in This Lesson Series

Unlock your inner guitar hero by learning every electrifying lick from Dr. Feelgood. Let LickLibrary help you channel the power of Mötley Crüe, one riff at a time.

Classic Albums - Dr. Feelgood

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