Livin' On The Edge - Aerosmith

Overview

Aerosmith's iconic track "Livin' On The Edge" is a masterclass in classic rock guitar playing, showcasing the immense talent of the band's lead guitarist, Joe Perry, and rhythm guitarist, Brad Whitford. This Licklibrary guitar lesson offers a note-for-note breakdown of the song, focusing on the essential techniques that make it a standout in Aerosmith's catalog. Through this lesson, you will not only learn how to replicate the electrifying riffs and solos but also develop a deeper understanding of the techniques that define the song.

"Livin' On The Edge" incorporates a variety of essential rock and blues techniques, making it a valuable learning tool for guitarists of all levels. Whether you're looking to improve your alternate picking or master pinched harmonics, this lesson will provide you with the skills needed to expand your musical vocabulary. Richard Shaw breaks down this rock classic in this exclusive Lick Library video tutorial.

Joe Perry and Brad Whitford - The Driving Force Behind Aerosmith's Guitar Sound

Joe Perry and Brad Whitford are the dynamic guitar duo that has powered Aerosmith's hard-hitting sound for decades. Perry, the lead guitarist, is known for his bluesy riffs, masterful slide playing, and searing solos, while Whitford provides rock-solid rhythm guitar work and tasteful licks that complement Perry's leads. Their interplay on "Livin' On The Edge" exemplifies their ability to seamlessly blend rhythm and lead guitar parts, creating a powerful and melodic foundation for the song. Perry's innovative use of effects and techniques has made him one of the most influential guitarists in rock history, and this song highlights his creative prowess.

Breakdown of Techniques in "Livin' On The Edge"

Power Chords

Power chords are the foundation of the main riff in "Livin' On The Edge." These simple yet effective chords give the song its driving rock energy. Mastering power chords is essential for any guitarist, as they are used across many genres of music, particularly in rock and metal. Learning to transition smoothly between power chords will improve your rhythm playing and help you build strength in your fretting hand.

String Bending

Throughout the song, string bending is used to add expressiveness to the solos and riffs. String bending allows you to change the pitch of a note without moving your finger position, giving your playing a vocal-like quality. Practicing bends will enhance your ability to play with emotion and control, an essential skill for creating memorable solos.

Pinched Harmonics

Joe Perry is known for his aggressive use of pinched harmonics, and "Livin' On The Edge" is no exception. Pinched harmonics produce high-pitched, squealing sounds that add intensity to your playing. By mastering this technique, you can add a layer of aggression and flair to your solos, making them stand out in a live or recording setting.

Palm Muting

Palm muting is a crucial technique in the rhythm sections of "Livin' On The Edge." It creates a percussive, chunky sound that adds dynamics to the riff. This technique is widely used in rock and metal to give riffs a tight, controlled sound. Learning palm muting will improve your ability to create rhythmic variation and control the intensity of your playing.

Vibrato

Vibrato is a key technique used by Joe Perry to add expressiveness to his solos. By slightly varying the pitch of a note, vibrato adds emotion and sustain, making your playing sound more professional and polished. Mastering vibrato is essential for any lead guitarist, as it can greatly enhance the musicality of your solos.

Alternate Picking

Alternate picking is used extensively in the faster riff sections of "Livin' On The Edge." This technique involves alternating between downstrokes and upstrokes to play notes quickly and efficiently. Developing good alternate picking technique will allow you to play complex riffs and solos with greater speed and accuracy.

Slides

Slides are frequently used in the lead guitar sections of "Livin' On The Edge" to create smooth transitions between notes. By sliding from one note to another, you can add fluidity and a legato feel to your playing. Practicing slides will help improve your fretboard navigation and give your solos a more connected, flowing sound.

Hammer-Ons and Pull-Offs

These techniques are employed in the solo sections to create fast, flowing passages without the need to pick every note. Hammer-ons and pull-offs allow for smoother transitions between notes, adding speed and fluidity to your playing. Incorporating these into your practice will help you develop legato playing, a key skill for any lead guitarist.

Double Stops

Double stops, where two notes are played simultaneously, are used in various riffs throughout the song to create a fuller sound. Mastering double stops will improve your chordal playing and give you the ability to add harmonic richness to your solos and riffs.

Guitar Techniques List

Here is a list of guitar techniques used in the lesson for "Livin' On The Edge" with links to detailed explanations for each:

• Vibrato
• Alternate Picking
• Pinched Harmonics
• Hammer-Ons
• Pull-Offs
• Slides
• Power Chords
• Palm Muting
• String Bending
• Double Stops

By focusing on these techniques, you'll not only be able to replicate the sound of "Livin' On The Edge" but also develop foundational skills that will serve you well in many other songs and styles. Happy practicing!

List of Guitar Techniques Used in This Lesson

• Power Chords
• Bluesy Bends
• Vibrato
• Barre Chords

This lesson does not cover alternate picking, legato, tapped harmonics, double-stop bends, unison bends, pinched harmonics, trills, tremolo picking, chord progressions, arpeggios, dive bombs, harmonics, pull-offs, palm muting, two-handed tapping, sweep picking, rakes, capo, finger-picking, hybrid picking, pre-bends, hammer-ons, double stops, slides, Travis picking, sustain, pick slides, string bending, syncopated rhythms, open string riffs, whammy bar tricks, octave melodies, galloping rhythms, dual guitar harmonies, arpeggiated chord progressions, chromaticism, and altered tunings.