"My Girl" by Aerosmith: Guitar Lesson

Aerosmith's "My Girl" from their 'Pump' album is a testament to the band's unyielding prowess in the realm of rock. It has been heralded as a classic, driven mainly by the dynamic guitar work that is characteristic of the band's sound. This analysis will delve into the guitar aspect of the song, giving guitarists a deeper understanding of its foundation and intricacies. Sam Bell shows you every nuance of this underrated album track in this exclusive Lick Library lesson.

Chord Progression:

The song uses a series of chord progressions that fuse perfectly with the vocal melody. Major chords like A, D, and E dominate the verses, with an occasional transition to a minor chord to provide tension and anticipation. The chord progressions serve as the backbone of the song, offering a seamless blend of rhythm and harmony that works well with the driving drum beats.

Guitar Scales:

Most of the lead work in "My Girl" is based on the A minor pentatonic scale. This scale, fundamental to rock guitar, gives the song its bluesy undertone. Joe Perry, Aerosmith's lead guitarist, expertly transitions between notes, adding depth and flair to the melody.

Guitar Solo Analysis:

Perry's guitar solo in "My Girl" is a prime example of his legendary guitar skills. The solo is a mixture of alternate picking, legato, and double-stop bends. These techniques, when combined, give the solo its signature raw energy and melodic finesse.

The solo commences with a series of unison bends, where two notes are played simultaneously, but one is bent to match the pitch of the other. This is followed by some pinched harmonics which add a sharp, biting quality to the overall tone.

As the solo progresses, Perry shifts to trills and rapid legato runs, showcasing his finger dexterity. The conclusion of the solo is marked by tremolo picking that gradually fades out, seamlessly transitioning back to the song's main riff.

Joe Perry and His Playing:

Joe Perry's style can be described as an amalgamation of rock's foundational tones with a dash of blues. In "My Girl", his choice of arpeggios and intricate picking patterns highlight his vast experience and understanding of the guitar. He knows precisely when to hold back and when to unleash, making each note impactful. His use of the whammy bar for those deep dives, known as dive-bombs, adds a dramatic flair to his playing.

Techniques Used:

• Vibrato
• Alternate Picking
• Legato
• Tapped Harmonics
• Double-Stop Bends
• Unison Bends
• Pinched Harmonics
• Trills
• Tremolo Picking
• Arpeggios
• Dive-Bombs
• Whammy Bar Tricks

In conclusion, "My Girl" is more than just another rock song; it's a showcase of expert guitar craftsmanship. Whether you're a budding guitarist or a seasoned professional, there's a lot to learn and appreciate in this track. The blending of technique, emotion, and raw energy makes it a must-study for any guitarist keen on understanding the essence of rock guitar.