Feel Like Makin' Love - Bad Company

"Feel Like Makin' Love" by Bad Company is a classic rock anthem with a timeless appeal. This note-for-note guitar lesson from Licklibrary focuses on the iconic techniques that shaped the song, giving you the tools to master its soulful riffs and powerful rhythms. Whether you’re a beginner or an experienced player, this lesson breaks down each segment of the track while honing critical guitar techniques. Michael Casswell breaks down this classic track in this exclusive Lick Library video tutorial.

About the Song and the Guitarists

"Feel Like Makin' Love" was released in 1975 as part of Bad Company’s Straight Shooter album. The song is driven by the extraordinary talent of guitarist Mick Ralphs, whose melodic phrasing and dynamic rhythms are legendary. Ralphs' ability to blend emotive power with technical precision influenced countless guitarists, cementing him as a rock icon. His contributions not only defined Bad Company’s sound but also inspired a generation of players looking to replicate his unique approach.

Guitar Techniques in the Lesson

Power Chords

Power chords are the foundation of the song’s rhythmic drive. These chords provide a strong, full-bodied sound while maintaining simplicity, making them an essential tool for any guitarist. Learning power chords builds strength in your fretting hand and improves your ability to play rhythmically consistent patterns across various genres.

String Bending

The expressive bends in the song’s lead parts bring its melody to life. String bending allows you to hit notes with emotional depth, adding a human-like voice to your playing. Practicing bends improves pitch control and finger strength.

Slides

Slides connect notes smoothly, creating a fluid and natural sound. In "Feel Like Makin' Love," slides are used to enhance the lead and rhythm parts. This technique refines your ability to transition between notes and adds a professional polish to your playing.

Double Stops

Double stops, where two notes are played simultaneously, appear in the song’s leads to add harmonic richness. Mastering double stops strengthens your ability to blend melodies and rhythm, making your playing more dynamic and engaging.

Syncopated Rhythms

The rhythmic structure of "Feel Like Makin' Love" uses syncopation to create its iconic groove. Syncopated rhythms improve your timing and rhythm-hand coordination, enabling you to play with more nuance and feel.

Vibrato

Mick Ralphs employs vibrato to give sustained notes extra character. This technique enhances your expressiveness as a guitarist, making your playing sound more personal and emotive. Vibrato is an essential skill for developing a unique tone.

Hammer-Ons and Pull-Offs

These legato techniques make phrases smoother and faster, particularly in the melodic runs of the track. Learning hammer-ons and pull-offs improves finger dexterity and helps you transition seamlessly between notes.

Why Learn "Feel Like Makin' Love"?

This lesson offers more than just a chance to learn a classic rock song. By breaking down each section, you’ll build a repertoire of essential techniques and develop a deeper understanding of melodic construction and rhythmic groove. Whether you’re jamming with friends or performing on stage, mastering "Feel Like Makin' Love" will elevate your playing and confidence.

Guitar Techniques Used in This Lesson

• Power Chords
• String Bending
• Slides
• Double Stops
• Syncopated Rhythms
• Vibrato
• Hammer-Ons
• Pull-Offs

Embark on your journey to master "Feel Like Makin' Love" with this detailed Licklibrary lesson and experience the thrill of playing one of rock’s most iconic tracks.