Learn to Play Van Halen Volume 3

Guitar Lesson Course Overview

Elevate your guitar skills to a legendary level with "Learn to Play Van Halen Volume 3," a meticulously crafted tutorial series by Jamie Humphries, that breaks down five iconic Van Halen tracks. This comprehensive guide not only delves into the specific techniques Eddie Van Halen employed to shake the rock world but also provides detailed analyses of the solos, scales, and song compositions. Whether you're a budding guitarist or a seasoned player, these lessons offer a deep dive into the genius of Van Halen's style, innovation, and musicianship.

Guitar Lessons Include:

Amsterdam

Judgement Day

Poundcake

She’s The Woman

The Trouble With Never

Lesson Performance Notes

Amsterdam

"Amsterdam" from the album "Balance" (1995) is an electrifying track that reflects Van Halen’s unique sound. The song is notable for its use of Mixolydian mode, giving it a bluesy feel with a rock edge. The guitar work involves intricate chord progressions and a lively, rhythmic strumming pattern that underpins the melody. The solo section is a showcase of Eddie’s skill, incorporating rapid-fire sequences, extensive string bending, and his signature vibrato. Understanding the nuances of this track will improve your chord transitions and rhythm synchronization.

Judgement Day

Featured on "For Unlawful Carnal Knowledge" (1991), "Judgement Day" is a testament to Eddie Van Halen's prowess and musicality. This hard-hitting rock composition utilizes the E minor scale, providing a dark, moody canvas for some of Eddie's most aggressive playing. The solo is a blistering array of techniques, including two-handed tapping, legato runs, and dive bombs, all delivered with precision and speed. Analyzing this song will enhance your dexterity and mastery of the fretboard, teaching you to navigate complex runs and rapid tempo changes.

Poundcake

"Poundcake," the opening track from "For Unlawful Carnal Knowledge," is quintessential Van Halen. This song's main riff employs open string riffs and power chords, delivering a punchy, rhythmic foundation. The A major scale is prevalent here, offering a bright, uplifting tonality. Eddie's solo is a blend of melodic phrasing and technical brilliance, featuring harmonics, slides, and tapped harmonics, showcasing his ability to fuse melody with advanced techniques. This lesson will develop your picking accuracy and sense of groove.

She’s The Woman

A track from "A Different Kind of Truth" (2012), "She’s The Woman" is a throwback to Van Halen’s early days. The song is driven by a classic rock riff utilizing the G major scale, creating an upbeat, energetic vibe. The guitar work is rhythmic and tight, with palm-muted notes interspersed with short, fast licks. Eddie's solo demonstrates his masterful use of scales, rapid alternate picking, and impeccable timing. Learning this song will hone your rhythm playing and scale integration.

The Trouble With Never

"The Trouble With Never," another gem from "A Different Kind of Truth," is a rhythmically complex piece in E minor that exemplifies syncopation and groove. The guitar lines are a mix of crunchy riffs and smooth legato phrases, creating a dynamic listening experience. The solo is a tour de force of techniques, with a focus on whammy bar tricks, quick hammer-ons and pull-offs, and emotional string bending. Studying this track will greatly improve your timing and rhythmic diversity.

Eddie Van Halen's Legacy

Eddie Van Halen revolutionized guitar playing with his innovative techniques, astounding speed, and unparalleled musical expression. His contribution to these songs is not just in the fast licks or intricate solos; it's in the emotion, energy, and passion he conveyed through his instrument. Eddie had an innate ability to make the guitar sing, using advanced techniques not merely as showmanship, but as tools to enhance musicality. His playing on these tracks exhibits a profound understanding of scales and modal playing, a tight rhythmic sense, and an incredible ability to meld melody with technical proficiency. Learning to play these songs is not just about mastering the notes; it's about understanding the artistry and emotion behind one of rock’s greatest legends.

Techniques Utilized in the Lessons

• Vibrato
• Alternate Picking
• Legato
• Tapped Harmonics
• Harmonics
• Pull-offs
• Power Chords
• Palm Muting
• Two-handed Tapping
• Slides
• String Bending
• Syncopated Rhythms
• Open-string Riffs
• Whammy Bar Tricks

Understanding and mastering these techniques will not only bring you closer to replicating the unique sound of Van Halen but also significantly broaden your capabilities and versatility as a guitarist. Each song in "Learn to Play Van Halen Volume 3" offers a unique opportunity to delve into the world of one of rock's most iconic guitarists. So, pick up your guitar, and let's start shredding!