The Green Manalishi by Judas Priest

Unlock the secrets of Judas Priest’s powerful rendition of The Green Manalishi (With the Two Pronged Crown) in this detailed note-for-note guitar lesson from LickLibrary. Originally written by Fleetwood Mac’s Peter Green, Judas Priest turned this song into a heavy metal anthem, and our lesson explores every aspect of its powerful guitar work. This performance is a masterclass in expressive phrasing, aggressive tone, and classic metal technique—ideal for intermediate to advanced players looking to elevate their skills. Danny Gill breaks down this classic track in this exclusive Lick Library video tutorial.

Guitarists Behind the Tone

The dual guitar assault of Glenn Tipton and K.K. Downing helped define the sound of Judas Priest, and The Green Manalishi is a testament to their synergistic style. Known for intertwining harmonies, blazing solos, and heavy riffing, both guitarists have heavily influenced generations of metal players. Tipton’s precise articulation and melodic sensibility contrast beautifully with Downing’s raw, aggressive energy. Their approach laid the groundwork for many of the metal guitar techniques we now consider standard.

Song Breakdown & Techniques

Power Chords and Palm Muting

The foundation of the track’s crushing rhythm tone lies in the use of power chords and palm-muting. These techniques create the tight, punchy chug that defines Priest’s sound. Learning how to palm-mute effectively helps players develop control over dynamics and timing, especially in rhythm guitar playing.

Vibrato and String Bending

Throughout the solos, Tipton and Downing both employ expressive vibrato and precise string bending. Mastering these techniques enhances the emotional impact of your lead playing, giving your notes personality and soul.

Unison Bends and Double-Stop Bends

These two techniques bring out some of the most intense moments in the solos. Unison bends and double-stop bends create tension and harmonic richness, offering a signature Judas Priest lead guitar sound. Practicing these bends improves pitch accuracy and finger strength.

Pinched Harmonics

The track is sprinkled with aggressive pinched harmonics that cut through the mix with squealing clarity. Learning to control pinched harmonics helps guitarists add flair and character to their solos and riffs.

Slides and Legato Phrasing

There’s a smoothness to many of the licks in The Green Manalishi, thanks to seamless slides and legato runs. Practicing legato improves finger dexterity and speed without relying on excessive picking, while slides help connect notes fluidly across the fretboard.

Hammer-ons and Pull-offs

Fast, fluid passages in the solos make use of hammer-ons and pull-offs to maintain momentum and flow. These are essential tools for building speed and efficiency in lead playing.

Trills

Quick bursts of note alternation using trills appear in key melodic moments, adding energy and spice to the phrasing. Trills are great for improving finger independence and control.

Rakes

Aggressive note articulation is often emphasised with rakes, a technique where muted strings are swept before hitting a note cleanly. Raking adds intensity and drama to solos and is an excellent way to enhance phrasing.

Dual Guitar Harmonies

A Judas Priest trademark, dual guitar harmonies are used to elevate the arrangement of The Green Manalishi. Harmonised lead lines create a richer sound and teach players about interval relationships and melodic structure.

Why Learn This Song?

Studying The Green Manalishi offers guitarists a chance to sharpen their metal playing toolkit. From the tight, percussive rhythms to the fiery, harmonised leads, this track provides a comprehensive look at the techniques that shaped heavy metal. Not only do these skills apply to Priest songs, but they’re also foundational to countless other bands across the genre.

Whether you're working on control, speed, articulation, or tone, this lesson will challenge and grow your abilities in a meaningful way. Plus, learning to play a full song from start to finish boosts musical memory and performance confidence.

Techniques Covered in This Lesson

• Power Chords
• Palm-Muting
• Vibrato
• String Bending
• Unison Bends
• Double-Stop Bends
• Pinched Harmonics
• Slides
• Legato
• Hammer-ons
• Pull-offs
• Trills
• Rakes
• Dual Guitar Harmonies

Ready to bring the fire of Judas Priest’s guitar legacy into your playing? Dive into our full Green Manalishi lesson and take your technique to the next level.