"Suzi (Wants Her All Day What?)" by Extreme: Guitar Lesson

Chord Progressions & Scales

First off, the song kicks in with a complex mesh of chord progressions, utilising a nice blend of minor and major chords that gives it an edge and an emotional feel. The main riff centres around E, G, A, and D chords. For the minor chords, they make good use of the pentatonic scale. You'll see how this is important later when we discuss the solo.

In the main riff and verses, the chords follow a I-IV-V progression typical in blues and rock, with nuances that are distinctively Extreme. This is mostly rooted in the E pentatonic scale, which contributes to the bluesy-rock vibe of the song.

Guitar Solo Analysis

The solo section is where Nuno Bettencourt, the lead guitarist, truly shines. Known for his eclectic playing style that blends rock, jazz, and classical influences, Bettencourt crafts a blistering solo for this track. The solo begins with a melodic phrase in the E minor pentatonic, but then quickly transitions into the E Mixolydian scale. This adds a flavorful touch, with added #4s and b7s, making it dynamic and full of twists.

Bettencourt takes the listener through a labyrinth of phrases, utilising rapid alternate picking followed by legato runs. These contrasting textures create a tapestry of sounds that are stimulating to the ears. Halfway through the solo, there's an arpeggiated section that just sings. Bettencourt employs sweep picking here, and the transition is so smooth that it almost seems effortless.

Towards the end of the solo, Bettencourt moves back to pentatonic-based licks but throws in some tapped harmonics, a signature of his style. He adds a dose of double-stop bends, making the tones sing and scream, taking the solo to its peak before resolving it beautifully.

Lead Guitarist: Nuno Bettencourt

The Portuguese-American musician Nuno Bettencourt is not just a guitarist; he's a virtuoso. He's known for his technical prowess, but what really sets him apart is his musicality. In "Suzi (Wants Her All Day What?)," Bettencourt makes the guitar "speak," going beyond mere showmanship. His note choices are impeccable, and he phrases his lines as if he's singing through his guitar. It's not just about how fast or how many notes he can play; it's about how those notes serve the song.

The blend of technique and feel in Bettencourt's playing is exemplary. Whether he's shredding through complex passages or breaking it down to simple emotive bends, he has a command over the instrument that many aspire to but few attain.

Techniques Used in This Song

• Alternate Picking
• Legato
• Tapped Harmonics
• Double-Stop Bends
• Chord Progressions
• Arpeggios
• Sweep Picking

Nuno Bettencourt is a master of integrating a plethora of techniques seamlessly into his music, and "Suzi (Wants Her All Day What?)" is no exception. From the rich chord progressions that lay the foundation of the song to the blistering solo that incorporates a multitude of techniques, this track is a treasure trove for any guitarist looking to broaden their technical and musical horizons. It's a must-learn for those wanting to delve into the styles that define modern rock guitar playing. Sam Bell breaks down this technique fuelled classic track.