The Heat Is On - Solo by Glenn Frey - Guitar Lesson Breakdown

Our note-for-note guitar lesson on the solo from "The Heat Is On" by Glenn Frey is the perfect way to learn the essential techniques that define this classic hit. Packed with catchy, melodic lines, this solo features key guitar techniques such as alternate picking, slides, vibrato, and double stops. Whether you're a beginner or an intermediate guitarist, this lesson will help you capture the vibrant, high-energy feel of Frey's iconic solo. By breaking down each technique, we’ll show you how to master them and incorporate them into your own playing, adding dynamic flair and expressiveness to your lead guitar skills. This lesson is taught by Sam Bell.

Key Techniques in The Heat Is On

Alternate Picking

Alternate picking is a crucial technique for playing fast and accurate lead lines. This technique involves picking each note with alternating upstrokes and downstrokes, which allows for smoother transitions between notes and faster execution. In "The Heat Is On" solo, alternate picking is used to keep the melodic lines clear and flowing, especially in the faster passages. Mastering alternate picking will enable you to handle fast licks with precision, maintain consistent timing, and improve your overall picking speed. Our lesson will guide you through the alternate picking patterns used in the solo, helping you develop control and clarity in your lead playing.

Slides

Slides are another key element in this solo, adding fluidity and smooth transitions between notes. Sliding from one note to another involves gliding your finger along the fretboard while maintaining pressure on the string, allowing for a seamless, connected sound. Glenn Frey uses slides throughout the "The Heat Is On" solo to create a smooth, melodic flow between his lead lines, making the solo sound more dynamic and expressive. In our lesson, we break down how to execute clean, controlled slides, giving your playing a more professional and polished sound. Mastering slides will allow you to add grace and continuity to your lead work.

Vibrato

Vibrato is an essential technique for adding sustain and expression to your playing. Vibrato involves slightly bending the string up and down to create a wavering, resonant sound. Glenn Frey uses vibrato in "The Heat Is On" to give key notes more presence and depth, allowing the melody to stand out with greater emotional impact. Learning how to apply vibrato effectively will help you add character to your solos, making each note more impactful. Our lesson focuses on helping you develop a controlled, even vibrato that will enhance your playing across all genres.

Double Stops

Double stops involve playing two notes simultaneously, creating a fuller and more harmonically rich sound. In "The Heat Is On," Glenn Frey uses double stops to thicken his lead lines and add extra punch to the solo. This technique is especially effective in rock and blues styles, where it can add weight and power to a melodic phrase. Mastering double stops will help you create richer, more layered solos and rhythm parts. In this lesson, we’ll teach you how to play double stops cleanly and effectively, giving your playing more harmonic depth and tonal variety.

About the Guitar Player in The Heat Is On

Glenn Frey, best known as one of the founding members of The Eagles, was a master of blending rock, blues, and pop sensibilities into his guitar playing. "The Heat Is On", released as part of the Beverly Hills Cop soundtrack in 1984, showcases Frey’s ability to craft tight, melodic solos that perfectly complement the song's upbeat, driving rhythm. Frey’s style in this track reflects his versatility and command over various techniques, making him an influential figure in classic rock and pop music. By learning this solo, guitarists can gain insight into how Frey fused technical skill with accessible, melodic phrasing to create a solo that remains a timeless classic.

Guitar Techniques Covered in This Lesson

• Alternate Picking
• Slides
• Vibrato
• Double Stops

By focusing on these essential techniques, you’ll be able to replicate Glenn Frey’s memorable solo with accuracy and style, while also expanding your technical skill set. This lesson will give you the tools to enhance your expressiveness and versatility as a guitarist, helping you grow in both lead and rhythm playing. Dive into this classic solo and take your guitar playing to the next level with our detailed lesson on "The Heat Is On"!