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Southern Rock - Guitar Lesson

Southern rock is a style which was born of many influences: the blues, gospel, country, and of course, rock. Below is a list of southern rock bands that created the style:

Lynyrd Skynyrd formed their band in the 1965. They were known for their country twang which came from Fender Stratocasters and Telecasters (Les Pauls were used also). One of their greatest hits, "Sweet Home Alabama" has a challenging riff that guitar players are still fascinated with.

The Allman Brothers are another great southern rock band that has been around since about 1965. Gregg Allman is the lead singer/organist. Gregg's brother Duane, who died very young, was the phenomenal slide player of the band. Duane set the level to which all other slide players aspire!

Blackfoot - now known as Southern Rock All-Stars
Kentucky Headhunters
Charlie Daniels Band

Here is an exercise and a lick that will help you get the feel of southern rock!

"THE TWANG" (HEAR IT!)

First, practice this muting exercise:

• Use the palm muting technique that you practiced in the palm mute lesson.

• Make the most of the 3rd fret bend - bend it slowly!

Now, add the measure below to the 1st exercise for a great twang lick.

TWANG LICK (HEAR IT!)

• Practice each lick or exercise slowly - listen to the audio example frequently

• Practice each lick or exercise with the metronome set to between 40 and 70

• Practice each lick or exercise with the slow practice track, then medium, then fast

• Try to change the lick slightly (add a slide, bend, vibrato) to make it your own!