Learn to Play “Trademark” by Eric Johnson

“Trademark” by Eric Johnson stands as one of the most iconic instrumental tracks in guitar history. Known for its soaring melodies, impeccable phrasing, and virtuosic technique, this song showcases the full breadth of Johnson’s musical vocabulary. At LickLibrary.com, we bring you a note-for-note breakdown of this masterpiece, offering guitarists of all levels the opportunity to dive deep into the genius of Eric Johnson’s playing.

Our expert guitar lesson unpacks each section of “Trademark” with clarity and precision, focusing on the signature techniques Johnson employs throughout. Whether you’re looking to improve your speed, finesse, or expressiveness on the guitar, this lesson is a must-watch. Rick Graham breaks down this classic track in this exclusive Lick Library video tutorial.

About Eric Johnson

Eric Johnson is often referred to as one of the most technically gifted and tonally sensitive guitar players of our time. With a career spanning over four decades, Johnson has influenced generations of guitarists with his fluid legato runs, glassy clean tones, and precise articulation. His playing combines elements of rock, jazz, blues, and country into a seamless style that’s uniquely his own. "Trademark" is a shining example of Johnson’s melodic sensibility and technical prowess. By studying this song, students gain insight not just into technique, but into the art of musical storytelling.

Song Structure & Technique Focus

Intro & Main Theme: Melodic Control and Tone

The opening of “Trademark” introduces Johnson’s signature touch: clean, lyrical phrasing infused with expressive techniques. Here, we focus on vibrato and string bending.

• Vibrato helps bring life to sustained notes, creating a vocal-like expressiveness that is crucial in emulating Johnson’s melodic phrasing.
• String bending is used extensively to articulate melody, allowing players to reach in-between pitches and emphasise emotional peaks in the phrase.

These techniques are essential for developing dynamic control and expressiveness.

Verse Sections: Legato Lines and Arpeggios

In the verse-style passages, Johnson integrates smooth legato passages and cascading arpeggios.

• Legato technique involves fluid transitions between notes using hammer-ons and pull-offs, enabling a seamless, flowing sound that contrasts with more percussive picking styles.
• Arpeggios in “Trademark” serve both harmonic and melodic functions, helping the player outline chord structures while maintaining a melodic contour.

Mastering these techniques enhances finger strength, phrasing finesse, and musical fluency across the fretboard.

Solo Section: Speed, Precision, and Harmonic Nuance

The solo in “Trademark” is where Eric Johnson’s full arsenal is on display. In this section, we dissect several advanced techniques, including alternate picking, pinched harmonics, and trills.

• Alternate picking is essential for achieving the clarity and speed required in Johnson’s quick melodic flurries.
• Pinched harmonics add an edge and character to select notes, contributing to the dynamic voice of the solo.
• Trills enhance the ornamentation of lines and build finger dexterity and control.

This part of the lesson is invaluable for players aiming to push their lead playing to the next level.

Harmonic Textures and Rhythmic Nuance

Throughout “Trademark,” Johnson makes use of chord progressions and subtle syncopated rhythms that create movement and interest.

• Understanding chord progressions helps learners grasp the harmonic framework supporting Johnson’s melodies.
• Syncopated rhythms challenge your timing and rhythmic accuracy, helping to build a more nuanced and mature rhythmic feel.

Why Learn “Trademark”?

Learning to play “Trademark” provides guitarists with a masterclass in tone, timing, and technical execution. This lesson will:

• Deepen your understanding of expressive phrasing
• Enhance your technical vocabulary with high-level skills
• Improve your ability to navigate the fretboard melodically and harmonically
• Inspire creativity by studying one of the most emotive instrumental guitar pieces ever written

Whether you’re a fan of Eric Johnson or simply looking to take your playing to new heights, this lesson will provide the knowledge and tools to do so.

Techniques Featured in the Lesson

• Vibrato
• Alternate Picking
• Legato
• Pinched Harmonics
• Trills
• Chord Progressions
• Arpeggios
• Hammer-ons
• Pull-offs
• String Bending
• Syncopated Rhythms

Dive into “Trademark” with LickLibrary’s premium lesson and experience the joy of mastering one of Eric Johnson’s most beautifully crafted compositions – one note at a time.