"Here Comes the Sun" by George Harrison

"Here Comes the Sun," one of George Harrison’s most celebrated compositions, is a timeless classic that showcases his mastery of melody and harmony. This song is not only a joy to listen to but also provides a treasure trove of guitar techniques for players to learn and master. At LickLibrary.com, our note-for-note lesson for "Here Comes the Sun" focuses on faithfully recreating Harrison's iconic guitar work while teaching you essential skills that will elevate your playing. Jamie Humphries breaks down this classic track in this exclusive Lick Library video tutorial.

George Harrison

"Here Comes the Sun" was released on The Beatles’ iconic Abbey Road album in 1969. Written by George Harrison, the song was inspired by a rare sunny day in England, making it a hopeful anthem that resonates universally. Harrison’s use of intricate fingerpicking patterns, arpeggios, and melodic phrasing demonstrates his unique style, blending folk and classical influences.

Harrison was an innovator and a bridge between traditional guitar playing and experimental techniques. His influence can be heard in countless guitarists who value musicality and emotion over sheer technicality. By studying his work on this song, you’ll gain insights into his creative process and technique.

Techniques Covered in "Here Comes the Sun"

1. Finger-Picking

The song’s primary guitar part relies heavily on finger-picking, a technique that allows for independent movement between bass and melody lines. By learning this technique, you’ll improve coordination and develop the ability to play intricate parts that blend rhythm and lead seamlessly.

2. Arpeggios

Harrison’s use of arpeggios forms the backbone of the song. Arpeggios create a flowing, melodic sound by playing the notes of a chord individually. Mastering arpeggios enhances your fretboard knowledge and is a gateway to more advanced styles, including classical and jazz.

3. Capo

The song is played with a capo on the 7th fret, which allows for open-string voicings that give the song its shimmering sound. Learning to use a capo effectively opens up a world of tonal possibilities and makes complex chord shapes more accessible.

4. Syncopated Rhythms

The rhythmic patterns in "Here Comes the Sun" include syncopated rhythms, where emphasis is placed on offbeats. This technique adds energy and groove to your playing, making it a vital skill for any guitarist looking to improve their timing and feel.

5. Hammer-Ons and Pull-Offs

Throughout the lesson, you’ll encounter hammer-ons and pull-offs, techniques that add smoothness and expression to melodic lines. Practicing these techniques builds finger strength and increases your ability to play fluidly.

6. Slides

The melodic transitions in the song often incorporate slides, which connect notes seamlessly and add a lyrical quality to your playing. Mastering slides enhances your phrasing and enables you to play with greater expressiveness.

7. Chord Progressions

The harmonic foundation of "Here Comes the Sun" lies in its beautiful chord progressions. Studying these progressions not only teaches you about chord relationships but also deepens your understanding of songwriting and arrangement.

8. Open-String Riffs

The use of open-string riffs gives the song its resonant, full-bodied sound. This technique is essential for creating rich textures and adding depth to your playing.

Benefits of Learning These Techniques

1. Enhanced Finger Independence: Finger-picking and syncopated rhythms will sharpen your finger independence and improve your multitasking ability on the guitar.
2. Greater Musicality: Techniques like slides, hammer-ons, and pull-offs enhance your ability to express emotion and musicality.
3. Increased Creativity: Understanding arpeggios and chord progressions will inspire you to craft your own memorable melodies and harmonies.
4. Improved Dexterity: Practicing intricate parts like open-string riffs builds precision and dexterity, which are essential for advancing as a guitarist.

Guitar Techniques in These Lessons

• Finger-Picking
• Arpeggios
• Capo
• Syncopated Rhythms
• Hammer-Ons
• Pull-Offs
• Slides
• Chord Progressions
• Open-String Riffs

Dive into the beauty of "Here Comes the Sun" and enrich your guitar-playing journey with these invaluable techniques. Our detailed lesson at LickLibrary.com will help you master every note and nuance of this George Harrison masterpiece.