"Ordinary World" by Duran Duran

LickLibrary.com brings you an in-depth, note-for-note guitar lesson for Duran Duran's timeless hit, Ordinary World. This iconic ballad showcases a blend of melodic sophistication, heartfelt lyrics, and lush guitar work that is perfect for guitarists looking to expand their skills. Our expert lesson breaks down each segment of the song, focusing on essential guitar techniques that not only replicate the magic of the original but also provide practical benefits for your guitar-playing journey. Jamie Humphries breaks down this classic track in this exclusive Lick Library video tutorial.

About the Guitarist: Warren Cuccurullo's Influence on "Ordinary World"

Warren Cuccurullo, the guitarist behind Ordinary World, brought his unique fusion of melodic rock and experimental techniques to Duran Duran. Known for his versatile style, Cuccurullo masterfully combines expressive phrasing with innovative approaches to tone and texture. His playing in Ordinary World features a delicate balance of atmospheric arpeggios and emotive leads, making it an inspiring piece for guitarists to learn. Cuccurullo's contributions to Duran Duran's sound continue to influence generations of players, blending technical prowess with emotional depth.

Guitar Techniques in "Ordinary World"

1. Arpeggiated Chord Progressions

Arpeggios are a key component of the clean guitar lines in Ordinary World. The song's intro and verses feature beautifully arpeggiated chords, creating a flowing, melodic backdrop. Learning these passages enhances your precision and finger independence, as well as your ability to maintain a steady rhythm while picking individual strings.

2. Vibrato

The expressive vibrato on the lead lines in Ordinary World adds a vocal-like quality to the melody. Mastering vibrato helps you convey emotion through your playing and develop your signature sound. It’s an essential skill for lead guitarists aiming to add nuance and depth to their solos. Learn more about vibrato.

3. Slides

Slides are used extensively in the song to transition smoothly between notes, adding fluidity and grace to the phrasing. Practicing slides builds your fretboard navigation skills and enhances your legato technique. Learn more about slides.

4. Hammer-Ons and Pull-Offs

The intricate embellishments in the lead sections make heavy use of hammer-ons and pull-offs, contributing to the song’s melodic flair. These techniques improve finger strength and coordination, enabling faster and more fluid note transitions. Learn more about hammer-ons and pull-offs.

5. String Bending

The soulful bends in the guitar solo are a hallmark of Ordinary World. String bending allows you to mimic vocal inflections, bringing an emotional resonance to your playing. It’s an invaluable technique for crafting expressive solos. Learn more about string bending.

6. Alternate Picking

Alternate picking ensures a consistent, articulate tone in both the arpeggiated parts and the faster lead runs. Mastering this fundamental technique improves speed, accuracy, and efficiency in your playing. Learn more about alternate picking.

7. Sustain

The guitar solo in Ordinary World is rich with sustained notes that create a soaring, emotive sound. Developing sustain control allows you to hold notes longer and achieve a full, resonant tone. Learn more about sustain.

Why Learn "Ordinary World"?

This lesson not only teaches you how to play Ordinary World note-for-note but also helps you master a variety of foundational and advanced techniques. Each element of the song—from the intricate arpeggios to the expressive bends—offers a chance to refine your skills and grow as a guitarist. Additionally, studying Warren Cuccurullo’s style gives insight into crafting memorable, emotionally impactful guitar parts.

Techniques Used in the Lesson

• Arpeggiated Chord Progressions
• Vibrato
• Slides
• Hammer-Ons
• Pull-Offs
• String Bending
• Alternate Picking
• Sustain

Unlock the magic of Ordinary World today and elevate your guitar skills with our expert tutorial at LickLibrary.com.