Adapting Guitar Solos to Your Playing Style: Tips from Steve Stine
08/15/24 • 18 min
Hey there, Steve Stine here. In this episode of my guitar podcast, I wanted to share with you my approach to learning challenging guitar solos, using the example of "Warheads" by Extreme. As a guitarist, I know how frustrating it can be to tackle a difficult solo, especially when you're trying to stay true to the original while still making it your own.
Throughout this episode, I break down my process for learning solos, from the initial listening stage to figuring out the notes and adapting the techniques to suit my own playing style. I emphasize the importance of finding a way to execute the solo that feels comfortable and natural to you, rather than trying to copy the original artist note-for-note.
Using specific examples from the "Warheads" solo, I demonstrate how I modified certain licks and phrases to better fit my own playing, while still maintaining the essence of the original. I also discuss the realities of playing live and how that can influence the way you choose to play a solo.
My goal with this episode is to encourage you to approach learning solos in a way that works for you, and to remind you that it's okay to make modifications and adaptations to suit your own style. Remember, you're not trying to be someone else – you're always going to be you, and that's what makes your playing unique.
Links:
Check out the GuitarZoom Academy:
https://academy.guitarzoom.com/
- Steve’s Channel → https://www.youtube.com/user/stinemus...
- GuitarZoom Channel → https://www.youtube.com/user/guitarz0...
- Songs Channel → https://www.youtube.com/user/GuitarSo... .
Hey there, Steve Stine here. In this episode of my guitar podcast, I wanted to share with you my approach to learning challenging guitar solos, using the example of "Warheads" by Extreme. As a guitarist, I know how frustrating it can be to tackle a difficult solo, especially when you're trying to stay true to the original while still making it your own.
Throughout this episode, I break down my process for learning solos, from the initial listening stage to figuring out the notes and adapting the techniques to suit my own playing style. I emphasize the importance of finding a way to execute the solo that feels comfortable and natural to you, rather than trying to copy the original artist note-for-note.
Using specific examples from the "Warheads" solo, I demonstrate how I modified certain licks and phrases to better fit my own playing, while still maintaining the essence of the original. I also discuss the realities of playing live and how that can influence the way you choose to play a solo.
My goal with this episode is to encourage you to approach learning solos in a way that works for you, and to remind you that it's okay to make modifications and adaptations to suit your own style. Remember, you're not trying to be someone else – you're always going to be you, and that's what makes your playing unique.
Links:
Check out the GuitarZoom Academy:
https://academy.guitarzoom.com/
- Steve’s Channel → https://www.youtube.com/user/stinemus...
- GuitarZoom Channel → https://www.youtube.com/user/guitarz0...
- Songs Channel → https://www.youtube.com/user/GuitarSo... .
Previous Episode
My Best Tips to Memorizing Songs (and Remembering Them Forever)
Ever found yourself fumbling through song sheets while trying to master a new tune on your guitar? Say goodbye to that crutch and hello to 'clearing'—my unique method for memorizing songs that will deepen your musical connection and free you from the page. We kick things off by breaking down the process of internalizing tunes in a meaningful way, diving into the world of 'ego songs' and 'project songs.' These categorizations aren't just labels; they're a roadmap to building a repertoire that does more than impress—it connects you to the core of music through chords, rhythms, and dynamics.
Next, we take a step backstage into the rehearsal room, sharing a glimpse into prepping for a live performance with none other than my daughter. The challenge of converting piano-centric pieces like those of Elton John or Billy Joel to the guitar isn't lost on us. It's all about capturing the essence, the groove, before even considering the chords. Strumming techniques, song structure, and personal interpretations take center stage, proving that the key to a memorable performance is injecting your unique voice into every chord and lyric.
To wrap this sonic journey, we explore 'clearing' in music practice, likening it to driving with the lights on full beam—always aware, always ready. I share insights into how this mindset is essential for ensuring clarity and confidence in your performance. The episode wouldn't be complete without discussing the high-wire act of singing while playing—an art in itself. So, whether you're a seasoned player or new to the strings, join us for a heart-to-heart filled with actionable advice and the kind of encouragement that only a fellow musician can offer. Let's make music that resonates, not just with our audience, but with our own artistic spirit. Happy strumming, GuitarZoom community!
Tune in now and learn more!
Links:
- Steve’s Channel → https://www.youtube.com/user/stinemus...
- GuitarZoom Channel → https://www.youtube.com/user/guitarz0...
- Songs Channel → https://www.youtube.com/user/GuitarSo... .
Check out Steve's Guitar Membership and Courses: https://bit.ly/3rbZ3He
Links:
Check out the GuitarZoom Academy:
https://academy.guitarzoom.com/
- Steve’s Channel → https://www.youtube.com/user/stinemus...
- GuitarZoom Channel → https://www.youtube.com/user/guitarz0...
- Songs Channel → https://www.youtube.com/user/GuitarSo... .
Next Episode
Decoding the Nashville Number System: Transform Your Music Play with Roman Numerals
Unlock the code that musicians worldwide swear by with our latest episode on the Nashville number system. Imagine being able to jump into any jam session or master new tunes in a snap, all thanks to a simple set of Roman numerals. That's the power of this musical shorthand, transforming the way you understand and play music, regardless of your instrument. I'll take you through the basics, starting off in the key of C and showing you how every note in the major scale births a unique chord. By the end of this episode, you'll be fluent in the language of chords – major, minor, and even the elusive diminished.
Strap in for a practical journey as we harmonize the major scale, revealing the secrets of the one-four-five progression that makes hits like "Brown Eyed Girl" and "Old Time Rock and Roll" instantly recognizable (and playable!). Whether you're a budding musician eager to collaborate or a practiced hand looking for a refresher, our conversation demystifies the theory, leaving you with a robust toolkit for any musical encounter. So tune in, tune up, and prepare to revolutionize your playing with insights from the Nashville number system – it's a game-changer.
Links:
Check out the GuitarZoom Academy:
https://academy.guitarzoom.com/
- Steve’s Channel → https://www.youtube.com/user/stinemus...
- GuitarZoom Channel → https://www.youtube.com/user/guitarz0...
- Songs Channel → https://www.youtube.com/user/GuitarSo... .
Steve Stine Guitar Podcast - Adapting Guitar Solos to Your Playing Style: Tips from Steve Stine
Transcript
Steve [00:00:00]:
Hey, Steve Stine here, and thank you for joining me for another episode of the Steve Stine Guitar podcast. Now, if you're listening to this, you can always watch the video if you'd like to, over on YouTube. You can find Steve Stine Guitar podcast over there. And if you're watching the video but you'd rather be listening to this in your car or something, you can certainly go over and listen to the podcast on Apple Podcast or wherever it is that you like to listen to your po
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