The Young Ones - Cliff Richard & The Shadows

"The Young Ones" by Cliff Richard & The Shadows is a classic 1961 hit that embodies the clean, melodic, and expressive guitar playing that defined the early rock and roll era. This lesson on LickLibrary.com provides a note-for-note breakdown of the song, allowing players to capture the authentic sound of The Shadows while developing key guitar techniques used throughout the track. Lee Hodgson breaks down this classic track in this exclusive Lick Library video tutorial.

The Guitarists Behind "The Young Ones"

The lead guitarist on "The Young Ones" was Hank Marvin, a pioneering figure in electric guitar playing. As a member of The Shadows, Marvin was known for his distinctive tone, precision, and melodic phrasing. His use of clean delays, vibrato, and smooth picking techniques heavily influenced rock and roll and later guitar legends like Mark Knopfler and Brian May. Learning Marvin’s style provides invaluable insight into expressive lead playing and refined technical control.

Techniques Covered in This Lesson

Vibrato

Vibrato is used extensively in Hank Marvin’s playing to add expression and sustain to notes. This technique involves slightly bending and relaxing the string repeatedly to create a natural wavering effect. Mastering vibrato improves a player’s ability to add emotion and character to lead lines.

Alternate Picking

The song features precise alternate picking, which involves alternating up and down strokes with the pick. This technique ensures clean articulation and speed, making it essential for accurate note execution and smooth phrasing.

Slides

Slides are used in "The Young Ones" to connect notes smoothly and add a singing quality to the lead lines. Practicing slides enhances finger control and helps players transition between notes with greater fluidity.

Double Stops

Hank Marvin frequently used double stops to add harmonic depth to his melodies. Playing two notes simultaneously creates a fuller sound and introduces subtle chordal elements into lead playing.

Chord Progressions

The chord progression in "The Young Ones" follows a classic 50s-style structure, providing an excellent opportunity for players to understand and apply fundamental chord movements used in rock and roll.

Barre Chords

Many of the rhythm guitar sections involve barre chords, which require pressing down multiple strings with one finger. Learning this technique strengthens hand dexterity and expands a guitarist’s ability to play across the fretboard.

Hammer-Ons & Pull-Offs

These legato techniques allow notes to be played fluidly without re-picking each one, contributing to a smoother lead sound. Developing hammer-ons and pull-offs improves finger independence and speed.

String Bending

Bends play a crucial role in creating expressive lead phrases, allowing the player to reach notes that aren’t normally available within a single fretboard position. This technique is key to capturing the emotional delivery of Hank Marvin’s playing.

List of Guitar Techniques Used in This Lesson

• Vibrato
• Alternate Picking
• Slides
• Double Stops
• Chord Progressions
• Barre Chords
• Hammer-Ons
• Pull-Offs
• String Bending

By learning "The Young Ones," guitarists can refine their technical skills while mastering the signature playing style of Hank Marvin and The Shadows. This lesson is perfect for players looking to improve their lead phrasing, rhythm playing, and overall musicality in the context of a timeless rock and roll clas