Rock This Town - Brian Setzer

Learn to Play "Rock This Town" by Brian Setzer

"Rock This Town" is one of the most iconic rockabilly songs ever recorded, featuring the masterful guitar work of Brian Setzer. This lesson from LickLibrary provides a note-for-note breakdown of the song, allowing players to master Setzer’s signature licks, rhythms, and techniques. Whether you're a rockabilly enthusiast or a guitarist looking to add some classic techniques to your playing, this lesson offers a deep dive into the skills needed to perform this electrifying track. Stuart Bull breaks down this classic track in this exclusive Lick Library video tutorial.

About Brian Setzer and His Influence

Brian Setzer, the legendary frontman of the Stray Cats, is widely regarded as one of the most influential rockabilly guitarists of all time. His unique blend of rockabilly, jazz, blues, and country influences set him apart from other players, bringing a modern twist to a vintage style. Inspired by players like Scotty Moore and Chet Atkins, Setzer’s aggressive yet articulate approach to guitar playing has influenced generations of musicians. His mastery of tone, technique, and phrasing makes "Rock This Town" a must-learn song for any aspiring rockabilly guitarist.

Techniques Covered in This Lesson

Hybrid Picking

Hybrid picking combines the use of a pick and fingers, allowing for a more dynamic and fluid picking style. This technique is essential for capturing the intricate picking patterns in "Rock This Town." Mastering hybrid picking improves finger dexterity and enables guitarists to tackle fast-paced licks with greater ease and precision.

Travis Picking

A hallmark of the rockabilly genre, Travis picking involves alternating bass notes with melodic lines. This technique creates a fuller sound, mimicking the effect of two guitars playing simultaneously. Learning Travis picking enhances rhythm skills and builds independence between the thumb and fingers.

Double Stops

Double stops add thickness to lead lines, a technique frequently used by Setzer. Playing two notes at once creates a richer sound and gives solos a more energetic feel. Developing this skill is crucial for achieving the classic rockabilly tone.

Slides

Slides are used throughout "Rock This Town" to add expressiveness to phrases. By gliding between notes, the guitar lines sound smoother and more fluid. Mastering slides helps guitarists develop better control and articulation in their playing.

String Bending

Setzer’s solos incorporate expressive bends that give his playing its signature feel. String bending allows guitarists to add emotion and variation to their notes. Practicing bends improves finger strength and accuracy.

Syncopated Rhythms

Rockabilly music thrives on syncopation—playing off the beat to create a swinging feel. "Rock This Town" showcases this technique, making the rhythm section sound lively and dynamic. Understanding syncopation improves timing and groove.

Arpeggios

Arpeggios break down chords into individual notes, a technique often heard in Setzer’s lead lines. This technique enhances finger coordination and helps guitarists craft more melodically engaging solos.

Palm Muting

Palm muting is used in the rhythm sections of "Rock This Town" to add percussive attack and dynamic contrast. Learning palm muting improves control over note articulation and helps create a tighter rhythm sound.

Chord Progressions

The song features classic rockabilly chord changes that define the genre. Understanding chord progressions is essential for improvisation and composition, making this technique valuable beyond just this song.

Vibrato

Setzer’s use of vibrato gives his notes a singing quality, adding sustain and expression. Developing a strong vibrato technique enhances a guitarist’s ability to make notes sound more expressive and professional.

Guitar Techniques Used in This Lesson

• Hybrid Picking
• Travis Picking
• Double Stops
• Slides
• String Bending
• Syncopated Rhythms
• Arpeggios
• Palm Muting
• Chord Progressions
• Vibrato

Mastering "Rock This Town" will not only allow you to play one of rockabilly’s greatest anthems but will also give you a deeper understanding of the techniques that define the genre. Whether you're looking to refine your picking, improve your rhythm playing, or develop more expressive lead lines, this lesson will equip you with essential skills to take your playing to the next level.