Rock Me Baby - Guitar Lesson Breakdown

"Rock Me Baby" by B.B. King is an iconic blues song that epitomises the soulful and expressive guitar playing that made B.B. King a legend. This song is a masterclass in blues guitar techniques, and our note-for-note guitar lesson on this track will walk you through every lick, bend, and slide that makes this song a staple in any blues guitarist's repertoire. Lee Hodgson breaks down this classic blues track in this exclusive Lick Library video tutorial.

About B.B. King and His Influence

B.B. King, often referred to as the "King of the Blues," is one of the most influential guitarists in the history of music. His unique vibrato, emotional string bending, and melodic solos have inspired countless musicians across genres. B.B. King’s playing style is characterised by his use of minimalistic yet deeply expressive phrases, making every note count. His ability to convey emotion through his guitar is unparalleled, and his influence extends far beyond the blues, touching on rock, jazz, and even pop music.

In "Rock Me Baby," B.B. King's guitar playing shines with its simplicity and power, making it an essential study for any guitarist looking to delve into the roots of blues music. This song, with its memorable riffs and soulful phrasing, is a perfect representation of B.B. King’s musical genius.

Guitar Techniques Explored in the Lesson

Vibrato

One of the key techniques B.B. King is famous for is his vibrato. In "Rock Me Baby," the vibrato technique is used to add expression and sustain to notes, creating a singing quality on the guitar. Mastering vibrato allows you to add your unique voice to the notes you play, making your solos more expressive and emotionally impactful. This technique is particularly important in blues guitar as it conveys the deep emotion inherent in the genre.

String Bending

String bending is another essential technique featured prominently in this song. B.B. King’s bends are often slow and controlled, allowing the pitch to rise to the desired note in a smooth, expressive manner. Learning to bend strings effectively will help you add emotion to your playing and is crucial for replicating the soulful sounds of blues guitar.

Slides

Slides are used throughout "Rock Me Baby" to smoothly transition between notes. This technique is a hallmark of B.B. King's style, allowing for fluid movement across the fretboard. Mastering slides helps you connect phrases seamlessly, creating a more polished and professional sound in your playing.

Double Stops

The use of double stops in this song adds richness to the melody, creating harmonized intervals that enhance the overall musicality. Double stops are a powerful tool in any guitarist’s arsenal, allowing you to play two notes simultaneously and add depth to your playing.

Hammer-Ons and Pull-Offs

Hammer-ons and pull-offs are used to articulate phrases in a smooth and legato manner. These techniques allow for quick note changes and can add speed and fluidity to your playing, making your solos sound more connected and expressive.

Bluesy Bends

The bluesy bends in "Rock Me Baby" are quintessential B.B. King. These bends often fall just shy of the next note, creating a tension that is resolved only by the next phrase. This technique is essential for conveying the raw emotion and soulful quality that is the hallmark of blues music.

Syncopated Rhythms

The rhythm in "Rock Me Baby" features syncopated patterns, which are essential for giving the song its groove and feel. Syncopation in blues often involves playing off the beat, creating a push and pull that drives the music forward. Understanding and mastering syncopated rhythms will improve your timing and give your playing a more dynamic feel.

Conclusion

By learning the techniques used in "Rock Me Baby," you will not only gain insights into B.B. King’s playing style but also develop essential skills that are fundamental to blues guitar. Each technique in this lesson is designed to help you express emotion through your playing, making your guitar sing with the same soulfulness that made B.B. King a legend.

Guitar Techniques List

Here’s a list of the guitar techniques covered in our "Rock Me Baby" lesson, along with links to explore each technique in more depth:

• Vibrato
• String Bending
• Slides
• Double Stops
• Hammer-Ons
• Pull-Offs
• Bluesy Bends
• Syncopated Rhythms

Whether you are a beginner looking to understand the fundamentals of blues guitar or an advanced player aiming to refine your skills, this lesson provides everything you need to capture the essence of B.B. King’s "Rock Me Baby."