Kon Tiki by Hank Marvi

Introduction to "Kon Tiki" by Hank Marvin

"Kon Tiki," performed by Hank Marvin and The Shadows, is an instrumental masterpiece that showcases Marvin's signature clean tone and lyrical phrasing. This iconic track combines melody, rhythm, and dynamic expression, making it an ideal choice for guitarists who want to explore nuanced playing techniques. Our lesson at Licklibrary.com takes you through a note-for-note breakdown of the song, emphasising the techniques that give "Kon Tiki" its timeless charm.

Learning these techniques not only helps you recreate the classic sound of Hank Marvin but also develops a wide array of essential guitar skills that can be applied across genres. Lee Hodgson breaks down this classic track in this exclusive Lick Library video tutorial.

About Hank Marvin and The Shadows

Hank Marvin is one of the most influential guitarists in modern music history. Known for his innovative use of effects and pioneering tone, he helped define the sound of instrumental rock during the 1960s. Marvin’s work with The Shadows inspired generations of guitarists, including legends like Mark Knopfler and Eric Clapton. His blend of melodic phrasing and technical finesse in tracks like "Kon Tiki" remains a benchmark for expressive guitar playing.

Techniques Highlighted in "Kon Tiki"

Each section of "Kon Tiki" offers opportunities to delve into key guitar techniques. Below is an overview of the techniques taught in this lesson, along with their importance in your development as a guitarist.

1. Vibrato

Vibrato is essential in giving life and emotion to your notes. In "Kon Tiki," Marvin uses subtle, controlled vibrato to add warmth and sustain to key melodic phrases. Learning this technique helps you improve note articulation and dynamic control, enhancing your overall expressiveness.

2. Slides

Slides are integral to creating the smooth, flowing transitions between notes heard in "Kon Tiki." This technique allows you to connect melody lines seamlessly, adding a lyrical quality to your playing. Mastering slides improves fretboard navigation and overall fluidity.

3. String Bending

Marvin’s use of string bending gives his solos a vocal-like quality, allowing notes to "sing." These bends are often precise, requiring excellent pitch control. Practicing string bending strengthens your fingers and sharpens your ear for pitch accuracy.

4. Arpeggios

"Kon Tiki" features arpeggiated chord progressions that underpin the song’s melodic foundation. Playing arpeggios enhances your finger independence and provides insight into chord construction, a valuable skill for both rhythm and lead playing.

5. Double Stops

Double stops add harmonic richness and rhythmic depth to Marvin’s playing in "Kon Tiki." By learning this technique, you’ll develop the ability to blend harmony and melody, making your solos more intricate and dynamic.

6. Hybrid Picking

Marvin’s clean tone and articulation are achieved, in part, through hybrid picking. This technique combines pick and finger-style approaches, enabling greater precision and speed when alternating between strings. Hybrid picking is especially useful for complex melodic passages and rhythm interplay.

7. Hammer-ons and Pull-offs

Hammer-ons and pull-offs are utilised in "Kon Tiki" to create smooth, legato passages. These techniques build finger strength, improve speed, and allow for more dynamic phrasing in your solos.

8. Tremolo Picking

Tremolo picking, used sparingly in "Kon Tiki," adds a shimmering texture to certain phrases. This technique enhances your picking accuracy and endurance, making it a versatile skill for many musical styles.

9. Palm Muting

Palm muting adds rhythmic control and clarity to Marvin’s guitar lines. By learning palm muting, you’ll gain better control over dynamics and improve the clarity of fast-paced or intricate passages.

10. Chord Progressions

"Kon Tiki" features dynamic chord progressions that form the backbone of the track. Understanding these progressions enhances your knowledge of song structure and helps improve rhythm guitar playing.

Why Learn "Kon Tiki"?

Studying "Kon Tiki" allows you to:

• Build foundational techniques in vibrato, string bending, and arpeggios.
• Explore musical expression through dynamics and articulation.
• Gain insight into Hank Marvin’s iconic playing style.
• Expand your repertoire with a timeless instrumental classic.

This lesson provides an excellent balance of melody, technique, and phrasing, catering to players of all skill levels who want to develop both their technical skills and musicality.

Guitar Techniques Covered

Here is a list of guitar techniques covered in our "Kon Tiki" lesson. Click on each technique to learn more:

• Vibrato
• Slides
• String Bending
• Arpeggios
• Double Stops
• Hybrid Picking
• Hammer-ons
• Pull-offs
• Tremolo Picking
• Palm Muting
• Chord Progressions

Explore these techniques to deepen your understanding of the guitar and bring the magic of "Kon Tiki" to your playing!