Can't Stop This Thing We've Started - Bryan Adams

Bryan Adams' hit song Can't Stop This Thing We've Started is a masterclass in rock guitar playing, combining melodic hooks, powerful chord progressions, and expressive techniques that every guitarist should have in their arsenal. This lesson from LickLibrary.com takes you through the song note-for-note, breaking down each section and focusing on the key guitar techniques that make this track so dynamic and energetic. Jamie Humphries breaks down this classic track in this exclusive Lick Library video tutorial.

The Guitarist Behind the Song

The song features the guitar work of Keith Scott, Bryan Adams' longtime collaborator and lead guitarist. Scott's playing is known for its tasteful phrasing, soaring lead lines, and impeccable tone, blending elements of rock, blues, and melodic pop. His influence on Adams' music is undeniable, helping shape some of the most memorable guitar parts in rock history. Learning his style not only enhances technical ability but also improves a guitarist's sense of phrasing, expression, and melodic storytelling.

Techniques Covered in the Lesson

Power Chords

Power chords form the backbone of this song's rhythm guitar work. These simple yet effective chords are a staple in rock music, delivering a strong and punchy sound. Mastering power chords improves left-hand strength, picking accuracy, and rhythm playing, making them an essential technique for any aspiring rock guitarist.

String Bending

Throughout the solo and lead sections, Scott uses expressive string bending to add emotion to his playing. This technique involves bending a string to reach a higher pitch, creating vocal-like phrasing. Practicing string bending helps develop finger strength and enhances the ability to create expressive, dynamic lead lines.

Vibrato

Adding vibrato to sustained notes brings them to life, making melodies sound more professional and expressive. Vibrato is a key element in Keith Scott’s playing style, giving his notes a vocal-like quality. This technique improves control, sustain, and adds personality to lead guitar parts.

Slides

Slides help connect notes smoothly and add a fluid motion to riffs and solos. Scott often incorporates slides in his lead lines to create seamless transitions between notes. Learning this technique enhances phrasing and helps guitarists move effortlessly across the fretboard.

Double Stops

Double stops, or playing two notes simultaneously, add a fuller, more powerful sound to lead lines. Scott frequently uses them in his solos to create harmony and texture. Practicing double stops improves finger independence and strengthens overall fretboard knowledge.

Palm Muting

Palm muting is crucial for adding dynamics and articulation to rhythm guitar parts. This technique involves lightly resting the palm on the strings near the bridge while picking, producing a tight, percussive sound. It is an essential skill for rock and hard rock playing, improving rhythm precision and dynamic control.

Arpeggios

While the song’s rhythm sections rely on solid chord work, Keith Scott also integrates arpeggios into his playing. Arpeggios involve playing individual notes of a chord in sequence rather than strumming them all at once. This technique enhances picking accuracy, fretboard awareness, and overall musicality.

Chord Progressions

The foundation of Can't Stop This Thing We've Started lies in its strong chord progressions. Understanding how these progressions work helps guitarists improve their songwriting and accompaniment skills. By studying this song, players will gain a better grasp of chord movement and harmonic structure in rock music.

Guitar Techniques Used in This Lesson

• Power Chords
• String Bending
• Vibrato
• Slides
• Double Stops
• Palm Muting
• Arpeggios
• Chord Progressions

By learning Can't Stop This Thing We've Started, guitarists will develop essential rock techniques, improve their lead and rhythm playing, and gain insight into the playing style of Keith Scott. Whether you're a beginner looking to expand your skills or an experienced player refining your technique, this lesson provides invaluable tools for your guitar journey.