"Monkey On My Back" by Aerosmith - Guitar Lesson

Aerosmith's "Monkey On My Back," from their iconic 'Pump' album, is a lesson in rich rock history and a showcase of guitar craftsmanship. This song stands as a testament to the depth and dynamism the band brings to rock music, with lead guitarist Joe Perry at the forefront of its delivery. Sam Bell shows you how to play every chord, lick, and phrase of this underrated album track in this exclusive Lick Library video lesson.

Chords and Scales

The primary guitar chords used in "Monkey On My Back" revolve around power chords, like E5, A5, and D5, adding that quintessential rock heaviness to the song. These power chords lay the foundation upon which Perry layers his distinctive licks and solos.

From a scalar perspective, much of the song is rooted in the E minor pentatonic scale, which is every rock guitarist's bread and butter. There's a rawness in this scale that lends itself well to the song's gritty theme.

Guitar Solo Analysis

Joe Perry's solos are a masterclass in emotional expression. The solo in "Monkey On My Back" is no exception. Starting with some rapid alternate picking sequences, Perry quickly transitions into soulful bends, showcasing his immense control over the instrument. The dynamic contrast within the solo, moving from aggressive runs to more melodic phrases, mirrors the song's narrative about struggle and escape.

Notably, Perry incorporates a mixture of both minor pentatonic and the blues scale. The added blues notes (flatted fifth) introduce an extra dimension of tension and release, aligning with the song's raw emotion.

Lead Guitarist: Joe Perry

Joe Perry is often regarded as one of the architects of American hard rock guitar playing. His style is a fusion of blues, rock, and a dash of funk. "Monkey On My Back" captures Perry at his prime. The song demonstrates his ability to craft melodic lines that serve the song while maintaining a signature sound that's distinctly "Perry." From his note choices to his phrasing, he exemplifies what it means to be in service of the song while standing out as a unique voice.

His tone, a perfect blend of grit and clarity, complements Steven Tyler's vocals while standing firmly on its own. Throughout the track, Perry moves between rhythm and lead seamlessly, showcasing his versatility as a guitarist.

Techniques Used:

• Power Chords: The backbone of rock guitar, these give the song its heft.
• String Bending: Perry's soulful bends add emotion to his licks and solos.
• Alternate Picking: This is evident in the solo's fast runs.
• Legato: Used to deliver smooth, connected notes.
• Harmonics: Add a bell-like quality to some of the song's sections.
• Pull-offs and Hammer-ons: These techniques add fluidity to Perry's playing.
• Slides: Used for transitioning between notes and positions.
• Palm Muting: Adds a rhythmic, chugging quality to certain parts.
• Bluesy Bends: An integral part of Perry's blues-infused style.
• Open-string Riffs: They give the song a larger-than-life resonance.
• Syncopated Rhythms: Breaking the regular pulse, adding groove and interest.

In conclusion, "Monkey On My Back" is not just another rock song. It's a study in guitar artistry, a fusion of technical prowess with emotional depth. Joe Perry's contributions, both as a rhythm and lead guitarist, solidify the track's place in rock history. For any aspiring guitarist, diving deep into this song, its techniques, and the dynamics between band members offers invaluable lessons in musicianship.