More Than A Feeling by Boston

Learn to master "More Than A Feeling" by Boston, one of the most iconic rock songs of the 1970s, with our note-for-note guitar lesson at Licklibrary.com. This detailed tutorial breaks down the techniques used in the song, offering invaluable insights into the playing style of Boston's Tom Scholz. Whether you're a beginner or an experienced guitarist, this lesson will enhance your skills and deepen your understanding of classic rock guitar. Danny Gill breaks down this classic track in this exclusive Lick Library video tutorial.

About the Song and Guitarists

Written and performed by Tom Scholz, Boston's lead guitarist and principal songwriter, "More Than A Feeling" is a hallmark of classic rock. Released in 1976, the song showcases Scholz's innovative guitar techniques and meticulous production style. Known for his soaring melodies and layered guitar harmonies, Scholz influenced countless guitarists with his distinct approach. His ability to blend precision with emotion is a defining feature of this track, making it a must-learn for any guitarist.

Techniques Covered in the Lesson

Arpeggiated Chord Progressions

The intro to "More Than A Feeling" features arpeggiated chord progressions, creating a flowing and melodic texture. By breaking chords into individual notes, you develop finger independence and precision. This technique is invaluable for crafting expressive, dynamic intros and enhancing your understanding of chord structures.

Alternate Picking

Precision alternate picking is essential for the intricate riffs throughout the song. This technique helps improve speed and accuracy, making it a core skill for any guitarist tackling classic rock songs.

String Bending

Scholz’s solos often incorporate string bending to add emotional expression to the melody. Learning to bend accurately to pitch not only improves your ear but also adds a vocal quality to your playing.

Vibrato

The solos in "More Than A Feeling" are brought to life with vibrato. This technique adds sustain and character to notes, allowing you to inject your personality into the music.

Double-Stop Bends

One of the standout moments in the song’s solo section involves double-stop bends. This challenging but rewarding technique adds a bluesy, harmonized feel to your playing, enhancing your ability to create complex textures.

Power Chords

The song’s driving rhythm sections rely on the use of power chords, a staple of rock guitar. Mastering these shapes helps build a strong foundation for rhythm playing.

Palm Muting

The dynamic rhythm guitar parts employ palm muting to create a tight, percussive sound. This technique is essential for controlling dynamics and crafting a polished rhythm tone.

Slides

Scholz’s lead work incorporates slides to smoothly transition between notes. This technique adds fluidity to your solos and helps connect melodic ideas seamlessly.

Dual Guitar Harmonies

A signature of Boston’s sound, dual guitar harmonies elevate the main melody, creating rich, layered arrangements. Learning this technique improves your ear for harmony and enhances your ability to collaborate with other guitarists.

Benefits of Learning These Techniques

By studying the techniques in "More Than A Feeling," you’ll gain a deeper appreciation for the craftsmanship of rock guitar. Each technique covered in this lesson not only enriches your skillset but also enhances your musicality and ability to convey emotion through your playing. Whether you're learning to create melodic solos, rhythmic precision, or dynamic textures, these techniques provide tools for lifelong guitar mastery.

Guitar Techniques in the Lesson

Below is a list of the guitar techniques featured in our "More Than A Feeling" lesson. Click on each link to learn more about the technique:

• Vibrato
• Alternate Picking
• String Bending
• Double-Stop Bends
• Power Chords
• Palm Muting
• Slides
• Dual Guitar Harmonies
• Arpeggiated Chord Progressions

Dive into this lesson to unlock the secrets of Tom Scholz’s iconic playing style and elevate your guitar skills to new heights.