"The Wind Cries Mary by Jimi Hendrix" - Note for Note Guitar Lesson

Jimi Hendrix’s The Wind Cries Mary is a soulful ballad that showcases the softer, melodic side of the guitar legend’s artistry. This timeless classic is a masterclass in subtlety, expression, and dynamics, blending intricate chord voicings and melodic phrasing to create a beautifully textured piece. Our The Wind Cries Mary guitar lesson focuses on the techniques that bring this song to life, including barre chords, hammer-ons, pull-offs, and slides. These techniques are deconstructed step-by-step, ensuring you capture the essence of Hendrix’s unique playing style. This lesson is taught by Danny Gill.

Technique Breakdown

Barre Chords

Barre chords are a cornerstone of Hendrix’s rhythm playing in The Wind Cries Mary. The song’s foundation lies in its smooth chord transitions and use of barre chord shapes to create lush harmonies. Barre chords allow for full, sustained sounds that are integral to the track’s flowing rhythm.

Mastering barre chords enhances your finger strength and dexterity while expanding your chord vocabulary. This technique is essential for playing complex progressions and is a stepping stone to understanding the fretboard more comprehensively. By practicing barre chords in the context of this song, you’ll develop both technical proficiency and musicality.

Hammer-Ons

Hammer-ons are another key element in Hendrix’s melodic embellishments throughout The Wind Cries Mary. By pressing a finger onto the fretboard to produce a note without picking, Hendrix creates smooth, connected phrases that add a lyrical quality to the music.

Learning hammer-ons builds finger strength, coordination, and speed. This technique allows you to create fluid, expressive lines, making your solos and riffs more dynamic. Incorporating hammer-ons into your playing will give your melodies a polished and professional feel.

Pull-Offs

Complementing the hammer-ons, pull-offs are prominently used in Hendrix’s phrasing for The Wind Cries Mary. This technique involves releasing a finger to produce a lower-pitched note, creating a seamless transition between notes.

Practicing pull-offs improves your finger control and precision. It’s an essential skill for achieving a smooth, legato sound, perfect for melodic passages. By mastering pull-offs, you’ll add depth and expressiveness to your guitar playing, echoing Hendrix’s fluid style.

Slides

Slides play a vital role in connecting the melodic and harmonic elements of the song. Hendrix’s use of slides adds a graceful, flowing quality to the phrases, enhancing the song’s emotional impact.

Learning slides improves your finger placement and transitions, allowing you to move effortlessly between notes and positions. This technique is ideal for creating a cohesive, connected sound, making your playing more expressive and versatile.

About Jimi Hendrix and His Influence

Jimi Hendrix is widely regarded as one of the greatest guitarists of all time, and The Wind Cries Mary exemplifies his ability to blend technical skill with emotional depth. Released in 1967, the song showcases Hendrix’s lyrical approach to the guitar, combining blues, rock, and jazz influences. His innovative use of chord voicings, melodic embellishments, and dynamic phrasing redefined what was possible on the electric guitar.

Hendrix’s influence extends far beyond his technical prowess. His music inspired generations of guitarists to explore new sounds, push boundaries, and prioritize expression in their playing. Learning a song like The Wind Cries Mary offers a glimpse into the genius of Hendrix’s artistry and provides invaluable insights into his groundbreaking approach to the instrument.

Guitar Techniques Used in This Lesson

• Barre Chords
• Hammer-Ons
• Pull-Offs
• Slides

Through our The Wind Cries Mary guitar lesson, you’ll not only learn to play this iconic track but also develop a deeper understanding of the techniques that defined Hendrix’s legendary style. Each technique serves as a building block for your guitar journey, helping you refine your skills and connect with one of rock’s most influential musicians. Unlock the beauty and emotion of The Wind Cries Mary with Licklibrary’s comprehensive guitar lesson!