That'll Be The Day - Buddy Holly

"That’ll Be The Day" by Buddy Holly is one of the most iconic rock and roll songs of the 1950s. Its catchy melody, timeless lyrics, and deceptively simple guitar parts have influenced generations of musicians. At LickLibrary.com, our note-for-note guitar lesson for this classic track not only helps you master the song itself, but also focuses on essential guitar techniques that are both foundational and stylistically rich. Whether you're a budding guitarist or a seasoned player looking to refine your chops, learning this track offers valuable insights into vintage rock 'n' roll guitar work. Lee Hodgson breaks down this classic track in this exclusive Lick Library video tutorial.

The Song Breakdown

Buddy Holly's guitar parts in That’ll Be The Day are rooted in the clean, twangy tones of the 1950s. The rhythm section uses tight chord voicings with subtle embellishments, while the lead fills bring just enough flair to keep the listener hooked without overwhelming the melody.

In our LickLibrary guitar lesson, we break down each section of the song, from the classic opening riff to the verse chords and the tasteful fills between vocal lines. You'll learn how to replicate Holly’s authentic sound and understand why his approach to guitar playing remains so influential. This is a perfect example of how simplicity, when done right, can be incredibly effective.

Featured Techniques

String Bending

One of the standout techniques in this track is string bending, used to add vocal-like expression to guitar lines. In That’ll Be The Day, these bends are subtle but effective, especially in the lead lines that punctuate the vocal phrases. Mastering string bending improves pitch control and dynamic expression, essential for expressive soloing in any genre.

Slides

Slides are another hallmark of Buddy Holly's guitar style, and they feature prominently in this track. Sliding between notes creates a smooth, connected sound that mimics the phrasing of a human voice. It’s a technique that enhances legato phrasing and helps develop fluid fretboard navigation.

Double Stops

The use of double stops — playing two notes at once — is prevalent throughout the rhythm and lead parts. These add harmonic depth and rhythmic interest. Practicing double stops strengthens finger independence and improves your ability to harmonise melodies.

Chord Progressions

The song’s main rhythm part is built on classic chord progressions, giving players a chance to work on smooth transitions and tight timing. Understanding these structures helps with songwriting and recognising common patterns used in countless rock, pop, and blues songs.

Open String Riffs

That’ll Be The Day incorporates open string riffs, which provide a jangly, resonant tone that defined the era. This technique enhances your timing and helps develop accuracy in hybrid fretting and picking.

Palm Muting

Used sparingly but effectively, palm muting tightens up the rhythm section, adding a percussive feel without losing note clarity. Practicing this technique improves right-hand control and adds versatility to your rhythm playing.

About the Guitar Players

Although Buddy Holly was the star and frontman, his guitar playing was an integral part of his music’s identity. On That’ll Be The Day, the guitar parts were a collaborative effort between Buddy and Jerry Allison (drums) and Joe B. Mauldin (bass), forming The Crickets. While the exact contributions on the recording have been debated, Buddy Holly’s playing and arranging were at the core of the song’s sound.

Holly’s style combined country picking with rock rhythm and bluesy bends. He influenced an entire generation of guitarists, from The Beatles to The Rolling Stones and beyond. His minimalist yet emotive style taught players that soul and timing matter more than speed and flash.

Benefits of Learning This Song

Learning That’ll Be The Day is about more than just playing an old hit. It’s an opportunity to:

• Improve rhythmic precision through tight chord playing and muted strums
• Enhance phrasing with expressive bends and slides
• Develop stylistic awareness by studying foundational rock 'n' roll techniques
• Build confidence through accessible but satisfying guitar parts

Our lesson ensures you grasp not just the how, but the why behind every lick, giving you the tools to apply these techniques in your own playing.

Guitar Techniques Featured in This Lesson

• String Bending
• Slides
• Double Stops
• Chord Progressions
• Open String Riffs
• Palm Muting

By diving into That’ll Be The Day with our detailed guitar lesson, you’ll not only learn a rock 'n' roll classic — you’ll develop a stronger foundation as a guitarist. This lesson is a must for anyone serious about understanding the roots of modern guitar music.