"Lazy" by Deep Purple

"Lazy" by Deep Purple is an iconic track from the band’s celebrated 1972 album Machine Head. This timeless song, driven by Ritchie Blackmore's masterful guitar work, is a treasure trove of techniques that every guitarist can benefit from learning. This detailed lesson from Licklibrary.com breaks down the song note-for-note, highlighting the essential skills and approaches required to master this rock classic. Danny Gill breaks down this classic track in this exclusive Lick Library video tutorial.

About Ritchie Blackmore and His Influence

Ritchie Blackmore, the guitarist behind Deep Purple’s signature sound, is renowned for his unparalleled ability to merge blues, classical, and hard rock influences. His playing on "Lazy" showcases his versatility, combining blistering solos, emotive phrasing, and intricate rhythm work. Blackmore’s innovative techniques have influenced countless guitarists, from neoclassical virtuosos like Yngwie Malmsteen to modern rock legends. By studying "Lazy," you’ll gain insight into Blackmore's dynamic style and the techniques that define his legacy.

Techniques Explored in "Lazy"

Bluesy Bends

"Lazy" is a blues-infused track, and Blackmore employs bluesy bends to add expressive phrasing. Mastering these bends will help you convey emotion and improve your pitch control, making your playing more dynamic and soulful.

Slides

Smooth slides connect notes seamlessly throughout the song, especially during transitions between phrases. Practicing slides improves finger strength and fretboard navigation, key skills for fluid playing.

String Bending

Ritchie Blackmore’s use of string bending creates tension and release, giving his solos their vocal-like quality. Learning this technique helps you add expressiveness to your own solos and develop a deeper understanding of melodic phrasing.

Hammer-Ons and Pull-Offs

Intricate licks in "Lazy" are powered by hammer-ons and pull-offs, showcasing Blackmore’s fluid legato playing. These techniques are essential for building speed and smoothness in your lead work.

Vibrato

Blackmore’s tasteful vibrato adds character to held notes, making them sing with emotion. Developing a strong vibrato technique enhances your ability to sustain notes with personality and depth.

Alternate Picking

Many of the faster passages in "Lazy" utilise alternate picking for precision and speed. Practicing this fundamental technique helps you tackle complex licks with greater accuracy and control.

Palm Muting

The rhythmic sections of "Lazy" incorporate palm muting to create tight, percussive sounds. This technique is essential for developing rhythmic control and adding variety to your tone.

Arpeggios

Ritchie Blackmore uses arpeggios to highlight the harmonic structure of the song. Learning these shapes not only improves your soloing but also deepens your understanding of chordal theory.

Trills

Fast trills appear in Blackmore’s improvisations, adding excitement and flair. Trills help strengthen your fingers and improve coordination for intricate lead work.

Double Stops

Blackmore employs double stops to create harmonic richness in his solos. These two-note phrases are perfect for adding texture and complexity to your lead playing.

Slides and Chromaticism

"Lazy" showcases Blackmore’s clever use of chromaticism and slides to create smooth, flowing lines. These techniques are invaluable for connecting musical ideas and enhancing phrasing.

Benefits of Learning "Lazy"

Learning "Lazy" offers a unique opportunity to explore the synergy between blues and rock guitar techniques. The song challenges players to:

1. Develop speed and precision with alternate picking and legato.
2. Enhance expressiveness through string bending, vibrato, and trills.
3. Gain confidence in navigating the fretboard with slides and chromatic runs.
4. Improve rhythm playing with palm muting and tight, syncopated riffs.

Mastering these skills will not only bring you closer to replicating Ritchie Blackmore’s legendary playing but also elevate your overall technique and musicality.

Guitar Techniques Covered in "Lazy"

• Vibrato
• Alternate Picking
• Legato
• Hammer-Ons
• Pull-Offs
• Slides
• String Bending
• Palm Muting
• Arpeggios
• Double Stops
• Chromaticism
• Trills
• Bluesy Bends

Explore these techniques through our comprehensive lesson on "Lazy" and take your guitar playing to the next level!