"Rave On!" by Buddy Holly: A Guitarist's Analysis

If there ever was a song that encapsulated the essence of rock and roll in its purest form, it would undoubtedly be "Rave On!" by Buddy Holly. Released in 1958, this timeless classic remains a staple in the repertoire of guitarists worldwide, celebrated for its infectious energy and irresistible hooks. In this analysis, we'll delve into the song's structure, chord progressions, scales, and dissect the iconic guitar solo that defines this enduring piece of music. Sam Bell breaks down this iconic track in this exclusive Lick Library video tutorial.

Chord Progressions and Structure

"Rave On!" follows a classic 12-bar blues progression in the key of A major, a cornerstone of rock and roll music. The chord changes are straightforward yet immensely effective, driving the song forward with relentless momentum. The primary chords used in the progression are:

• A
• D
• E

This simple yet potent chord sequence provides the perfect canvas for Buddy Holly's electrifying performance, allowing the guitars to shine with unbridled intensity.

Guitar Scales

In terms of scales, the song predominantly utilises the A major scale, infusing it with bluesy nuances to create that signature rock and roll sound. Guitarists can explore the expressive potential of the A major scale, injecting it with bends, slides, and vibrato to imbue each note with emotion and attitude.

Lead Guitar Solo Analysis

The centrepiece of "Rave On!" is undoubtedly its electrifying guitar solo, a masterclass in melodic invention and raw energy. Let's break down some key elements of this iconic solo:

• Melodic Phrasing: Buddy Holly's solo is characterised by its infectious melodies, weaving effortlessly through the song's chord changes with grace and precision.
• Double Stop Bends: Throughout the solo, Holly employs double stop bends to add depth and intensity to his phrases, creating a sense of urgency and excitement.
• Unison Bends: By utilising unison bends, Holly achieves a harmonically rich sound that elevates the solo to new heights, showcasing his mastery of expression and technique.
• Vibrato and Tremolo Picking: The solo is punctuated with vibrant vibrato and tremolo picking, infusing each note with personality and flair.
• Bluesy Bends: Holly infuses the solo with bluesy bends, bending notes just slightly out of pitch to evoke a sense of soulful yearning and emotion.

The Lead Guitarist and His Playing

Buddy Holly, the lead guitarist and vocalist of the Crickets, was a pioneering figure in the world of rock and roll. Renowned for his innovative approach to songwriting and guitar playing, Holly left an indelible mark on the music landscape with his distinctive style. In "Rave On!", Holly's guitar playing is characterised by its infectious energy, melodic inventiveness, and raw emotion. His spirited performance serves as a testament to his enduring influence on generations of guitarists to come.

Guitar Techniques Used

• Vibrato
• Alternate Picking
• Double Stop Bends
• Unison Bends
• Tremolo Picking
• Bluesy Bends

With its infectious rhythm, unforgettable melody, and electrifying guitar work, "Rave On!" by Buddy Holly continues to captivate audiences and inspire guitarists to this day. Whether you're a seasoned player or just starting out, studying this timeless classic offers invaluable insights into the art of rock and roll guitar playing. So grab your guitar, crank up the volume, and let the spirit of Buddy Holly's music carry you away on a wild ride through the annals of rock history.