Funk 49 by Joe Walsh

Joe Walsh's iconic riff from the song "Funk 49" is a staple in rock and funk guitar playing, blending rhythmic prowess and catchy, bluesy tones. Our note-for-note lesson on "Funk 49" dives deep into the unique techniques used by Joe Walsh, breaking down every component to help you master the song. Whether you're looking to expand your rhythm playing or sharpen your lead chops, this lesson will guide you through each part of the track. Below, we’ll cover the main techniques highlighted in the song, their importance, and how learning them will benefit your overall guitar playing. Danny Gill breaks down this classic rock track in this exclusive Lick Library video tutorial.

Joe Walsh and His Influence

Joe Walsh is one of the most celebrated guitarists in classic rock history. Known for his distinctive tone and eclectic style, Walsh brings a blend of blues, rock, and funk to his playing. With bands like James Gang and The Eagles, Walsh has left a significant mark on the rock genre, and his work on "Funk 49" showcases his ability to fuse rhythmic energy with melodic finesse. Learning this track is not just about nailing the riffs but also about understanding the musical mindset of one of rock's most influential guitarists.

Techniques in "Funk 49"

Rhythm and Syncopated Grooves

One of the most defining aspects of "Funk 49" is its tight, syncopated rhythm guitar playing. The song relies heavily on punchy, percussive strumming that drives the funky groove. Syncopation plays a key role here, as it adds off-beat accents that keep the listener engaged. Mastering this technique will significantly improve your sense of timing and groove, essential for funk and rock styles. Developing your syncopated rhythm playing will help you lock in with a drummer or rhythm section, enhancing your live performances or jam sessions.

Double Stops and Bluesy Bends

Walsh incorporates the use of double stops throughout the song, combining two notes at once to create a fuller sound. These are frequently paired with bluesy bends, which give the song its characteristic flavour. Double stops allow you to add more harmonic depth to your playing, and bending adds emotional expression to your notes. By mastering these techniques, you'll develop a more versatile lead guitar style that blends seamlessly into rhythm playing.

Slides and Hammer-Ons

Slides and hammer-ons are pivotal for creating the smooth, flowing feel of the riffs in "Funk 49." Slides connect different notes and give a more fluid transition between frets, while hammer-ons help to emphasize notes with legato phrasing. These techniques are essential in creating the smooth, slick sound of the song and are great for improving your control over note articulation. Practicing slides and hammer-ons will also improve your finger dexterity and precision.

Open-String Riffs

The main riff of "Funk 49" utilises open-string riffs to create its bright and punchy tone. Open strings resonate more freely, adding a dynamic quality to the song that contrasts with the fretted notes. Learning to incorporate open-string riffs into your playing helps add variation to your rhythm patterns and opens up new possibilities for crafting engaging, dynamic guitar parts.

Palm Muting

The palm muting technique is applied to accentuate certain sections, adding more punch and control to the riff. By using palm muting, Walsh creates rhythmic definition between muted notes and open-strummed ones. Palm muting is a crucial skill for rock and funk guitarists, as it allows for better control of dynamics and cleaner, more percussive sounds in your playing.

String Bending and Vibrato

Walsh’s use of string bending and vibrato adds flavour and character to the lead lines, making them feel more expressive. String bending, combined with vibrato, gives life to each note, making them sing with sustain and feeling. Both techniques are essential for lead guitarists, as they add a layer of emotional depth and personality to solos and melodic lines. Developing these skills will enable you to play with more expression and nuance, helping your solos stand out.

Guitar Techniques List

Here are the key techniques you'll learn in this lesson, along with some additional resources that can help you understand them further:

• Vibrato
• Alternate Picking
• Legato
• Double Stop Bends
• Unison Bends
• Hammer-Ons
• Slides
• String Bending
• Palm Muting
• Open-String Riffs

By focusing on the techniques used in "Funk 49," you’ll not only master one of Joe Walsh’s signature songs but also gain essential skills to apply across a wide range of musical styles. Each technique builds on your technical abilities, while also enhancing your understanding of rhythm, groove, and expressive lead playing.