Learn to Play ZZ Top Volume 2

If you're passionate about the boogie blues-rock of ZZ Top, then our second volume of "Learn to Play ZZ Top" is tailor-made for you. This comprehensive guitar lesson from Danny Gill, dives deep into the mechanics of five emblematic ZZ Top tunes: "Waitin' For the Bus", "Jesus Just Left Chicago", "Beer Drinkers and Hell Raisers", "Legs", and "Cheap Sunglasses".

Master the iconic guitar work of Billy Gibbons, the bearded maestro, known for his killer tone, cool style, and infectious rhythm chops. Let's dissect the songs, analyze the guitar solos, discuss the scales used, and study the overall contribution of Gibbons to these tracks.

Waitin' For the Bus

In this infectious blues-boogie track, Gibbons uses the A minor pentatonic scale to great effect. His rhythm guitar riffs drive the song, and the solo utilizes a classic mix of blues licks, bends, and slides. Gibbons' frequent use of double-stops adds a raw, energetic quality to the track.

Jesus Just Left Chicago

This classic blues track is a fantastic example of Gibbons' versatile approach. The song is played in the key of G, and the lead guitar part is largely based on the G blues scale. Gibbons' solo is a fantastic combination of both melodic and rhythmic ideas. He expertly utilizes legato technique, string bending, and vibrato to add expressiveness to his phrasing.

Beer Drinkers and Hell Raisers

An excellent showcase of Gibbons' unique bluesy hard rock style, "Beer Drinkers and Hell Raisers" offers an exploration into alternate picking and slides. Gibbons frequently uses power chords throughout the song, giving it that hard-hitting sound ZZ Top is known for.

Legs

"Legs" provides a great example of how Gibbons mixes rock and dance elements. The main riff is an arpeggiated progression, highlighting Gibbons' precise picking technique. The solo section showcases some of his signature techniques, like finger slides and syncopated rhythms, which add texture and character to the track.

Cheap Sunglasses

"Cheap Sunglasses" is a masterclass in creating memorable rock riffs. Based around a blues scale in G, the riffs in this song are as catchy as they come. Gibbons' solo is a wonderful blend of alternate picking, double-stops, and bluesy bends that encapsulate his signature style.

Billy Gibbons - A Sound Legend

Billy Gibbons' guitar work is the soul of ZZ Top. His blend of Texas blues, hard rock, and rhythm and blues have cemented his place as one of the guitar greats. Gibbons is known for his ability to play both lead and rhythm simultaneously, as well as his use of pinch harmonics, a technique he uses to produce high, ringing tones. He's also noted for his use of chord progressions, harmonics, palm muting, and legato techniques, amongst others.

The songs in this volume showcase his incredible versatility. From the driving, hard-rock style of "Waitin' For the Bus" and "Beer Drinkers and Hell Raisers", to the classic blues of "Jesus Just Left Chicago", and the modern rock sound of "Legs" and "Cheap Sunglasses". Each song offers something different and allows you to explore various aspects of Gibbons' signature style.

Guitar techniques used throughout these lessons include:

• Vibrato
• Alternate Picking
• Legato
• Double-stops
• Power Chords
• Palm Muting
• Arpeggios
• Slides
• String Bending
• Syncopated Rhythms
• Bluesy Bends

From dissecting Billy Gibbons' masterful use of scales, to getting into the nitty-gritty of his unique technique, this course is a treasure trove of insights for any guitar enthusiast. So, ready to delve deep into the rock 'n roll world of ZZ Top with "Learn to Play ZZ Top Volume 2"? Grab your guitar, crank up your amplifier, and let's get started!