Johnny B. Goode - Guitar Lesson

Learn to Play "Johnny B. Goode" Note for Note

"Johnny B. Goode" by Chuck Berry is one of the most iconic rock and roll songs of all time. The song's legendary opening riff, driving rhythm, and dynamic lead guitar work have influenced countless musicians and shaped the sound of rock guitar. In this Licklibrary lesson, we provide a note-for-note breakdown of this classic track, ensuring that guitarists of all levels can master Berry’s signature style.

This lesson covers every key aspect of Chuck Berry’s pioneering guitar work, including double stops, slides, alternate picking, and string bending—techniques that form the foundation of rock guitar playing. Whether you’re an aspiring rock guitarist or looking to refine your classic rock skills, this lesson provides valuable insight into the techniques that made "Johnny B. Goode" a timeless masterpiece. Steve Trovato breaks down this classic track in this exclusive Lick Library video tutorial.

The Guitarist Behind "Johnny B. Goode"

Chuck Berry is widely regarded as one of the most influential guitarists in rock and roll history. His playing style blended blues phrasing with a driving rhythm, setting the stage for generations of rock musicians. With his signature licks, high-energy performance, and innovative showmanship, Berry inspired guitar legends such as Keith Richards, Angus Young, and Eric Clapton. "Johnny B. Goode" remains a prime example of Berry’s genius, showcasing his unique combination of blues-based lead playing, rhythmic chording, and storytelling lyrics that continue to define rock guitar.

Guitar Techniques in "Johnny B. Goode"

Double Stops

One of the defining characteristics of Chuck Berry’s playing is his extensive use of double stops—playing two notes simultaneously. This technique creates a fuller, more dynamic sound that adds punch to his leads. Learning double stops helps guitarists develop strength in both hands and improves overall note articulation.

String Bending

Berry’s lead lines feature string bending, where notes are bent up to create expressive, vocal-like phrasing. Mastering this technique enhances your ability to add emotion and variation to solos, making your playing sound more authentic and expressive.

Slides

Slides are a crucial element in Berry’s style, used to transition between notes smoothly. This technique not only improves fretboard navigation but also enhances legato phrasing, making solos sound more fluid and connected.

Alternate Picking

The rapid-fire rhythm of "Johnny B. Goode" requires strong alternate picking skills. This technique ensures efficiency and speed, helping players develop a clean, articulate picking hand that is essential for rock and roll guitar playing.

Chord Progressions

The song follows a classic I-IV-V chord progression, a staple in blues and rock music. Understanding this progression strengthens a guitarist’s ability to improvise, compose, and recognise patterns commonly used in countless other songs.

Pull-offs

Pull-offs add smoothness to Berry’s lead lines, making them sound faster and more fluid. Practicing pull-offs builds finger independence and improves overall legato technique, allowing for faster and smoother runs across the fretboard.

Unison Bends

Berry often uses unison bends to create tension and excitement in his solos. This technique, where two strings are bent to the same pitch, gives a punchy, bluesy feel to lead playing and adds extra expression to solos.

Guitar Techniques Used in "Johnny B. Goode"

• Double Stops
• String Bending
• Slides
• Alternate Picking
• Chord Progressions
• Pull-offs
• Unison Bends

Mastering these techniques will not only help you nail "Johnny B. Goode" but also elevate your overall guitar playing. Join us at Licklibrary for this in-depth lesson and bring Chuck Berry’s legendary sound to your own playing!