Guitar Lesson on "On the Beach" by Chris Rea

Dive into the sun-soaked strings and soul-stirring melodies of Chris Rea’s iconic track, "On the Beach." This Licklibrary guitar lesson offers an in-depth exploration of the nuanced techniques that make this song a perennial favorite among guitarists. Whether you are a beginner looking to understand the basics or an experienced player aiming to refine your skills, this lesson provides a valuable toolkit of guitar techniques, accompanied by the soulful, soothing tones that characterize Chris Rea's style. This lesson is taught by Mitch Laddie.

Techniques Focused in the Lesson

Palm Muting

Palm muting, a key technique in "On the Beach," involves resting the side of the picking hand's palm near the bridge of the guitar while playing. This technique allows for a muted, percussive sound that adds a rhythmic texture to the riff. Learning palm muting can enhance your control over dynamics and timing, crucial for genres ranging from rock to metal.

Double Stops

Double stops involve playing two notes simultaneously, often creating a fuller, harmonic-rich sound. In "On the Beach," double stops add layers to the melody, enriching the sonic palette. Mastering double stops can significantly expand your expressive capabilities and improvisational flexibility.

Legato

Legato playing in "On the Beach" features smooth transitions from note to note, primarily using hammer-ons and pull-offs. This technique allows for a fluid, connected sound that enhances the melodic lines. Learning legato improves finger dexterity and helps in achieving speed and fluidity without sacrificing melody.

String Bending

String bending is pivotal in expressing the emotive quality of this song. By bending the strings, you can reach the pitch of nearby notes, adding expressiveness and a vocal-like quality to your playing. This technique is essential for injecting emotion and drama into your playing, making it a vital skill for any aspiring guitarist.

Chris Rea: The Guitarist Behind the Song

Chris Rea, known for his distinctive raspy voice and profound guitar skills, has influenced countless musicians with his blend of rock, blues, and folk. "On the Beach" epitomizes his ability to craft vivid soundscapes that transport listeners to serene, reflective environments. Rea's guitar work, characterized by its lyrical bends and thoughtful vibrato, offers a masterclass in playing with feeling and precision. Aspiring guitarists can learn much from his approach to melody and atmosphere, which is as instructive as it is inspiring.

Benefits of Learning These Techniques

The techniques highlighted in this lesson are not just essential for playing "On the Beach" but are fundamental to a wide range of guitar repertoire. Palm muting and legato play critical roles in rhythm and lead playing respectively, offering control and expressiveness. Double stops enrich your harmonic understanding, while string bending is key to emotive solos. By mastering these techniques, learners can enhance their overall musicality and versatility, enabling them to adapt to various musical styles and contexts.

Conclusion

Chris Rea’s "On the Beach" is more than just a song; it's a narrative expressed through melody and rhythm, made possible by the sophisticated use of guitar techniques. This lesson from Licklibrary not only guides you through the technical aspects of the song but also helps you capture the emotional essence that Chris Rea so effortlessly conveys. Whether you're playing for yourself or performing for an audience, the skills you develop here will enrich your musical journey.

Guitar Techniques Used in This Lesson

• Palm Muting
• Double Stops
• Legato
• String Bending