Always On The Run by Lenny Kravitz

Introduction to "Always On The Run"

"Always On The Run," performed by Lenny Kravitz and featuring the legendary guitarist Slash, is a timeless blend of rock, funk, and blues that showcases impeccable guitar craftsmanship. At Licklibrary.com, we deliver a note-for-note guitar lesson of this iconic track, focusing on the techniques that define its rich and energetic sound.

This lesson equips guitarists with a deep understanding of the song's technical elements, empowering them to enhance their playing style while celebrating the artistry of the original recording. Michael Casswell breaks down this classic track in this exclusive Lick Library video tutorial.

Techniques Explored in the Lesson

Funk-Inspired Rhythm and Syncopated Rhythms

The foundation of "Always On The Run" lies in its funky, syncopated rhythm guitar work. These rhythms challenge players to develop precision timing and groove. Mastering syncopation will greatly improve your ability to create dynamic and engaging rhythms in various musical contexts.

Slides

The song features fluid slides between chords and notes, adding a smooth, expressive quality to the riff. Practicing slides enhances finger control and creates a seamless flow in melodic lines, which is crucial for both lead and rhythm playing.

String Bending and Bluesy Bends

Slash’s tasteful use of string bending and bluesy bends infuses the song with soulful expression. These techniques enable players to mimic vocal-like qualities on the guitar, enhancing the emotional impact of their solos and melodies.

Vibrato

Throughout the solos and riffs, vibrato adds depth and sustain, making notes sing with character. Learning vibrato will refine your expressive abilities, helping you add personal flair to any piece you play.

Double Stops

The track incorporates double stops to enrich its harmonic texture. This technique involves playing two notes simultaneously, enhancing the melodic and rhythmic complexity of your performance.

Hammer-Ons and Pull-Offs

The embellishments in the riff and solos make extensive use of hammer-ons and pull-offs, adding fluidity and speed to the lines. These foundational techniques are essential for building legato phrasing in solos and riffs.

Power Chords

The driving force of the rhythm section is built upon power chords, delivering the iconic rock energy of the track. Power chords are fundamental to rhythm guitar and are indispensable for playing in rock genres.

Palm Muting

To create the tight, percussive feel characteristic of the funk-rock fusion, the song utilises palm muting. Practicing this technique improves dynamic control and helps you achieve cleaner, more articulated rhythm playing.

About the Guitarists

The collaboration between Lenny Kravitz and Slash is a defining feature of "Always On The Run." Lenny Kravitz, known for his soulful blend of rock, funk, and blues, delivers the rhythm backbone with precision and groove. Slash, the iconic lead guitarist of Guns N’ Roses, contributes his signature style of melodic, expressive solos and gritty blues-influenced licks.

Slash’s influence on modern rock guitarists is profound, combining technical prowess with raw emotional intensity. His performance on "Always On The Run" exemplifies his ability to fuse technical complexity with soulful expression, offering inspiration to players of all levels.

Benefits of Learning These Techniques

• Improved Rhythm Skills: Techniques like syncopated rhythms and palm muting hone timing and dynamic control, essential for tight and engaging rhythm playing.
• Enhanced Lead Playing: Mastering bends, vibrato, and legato elements such as hammer-ons and pull-offs enriches your expressive capabilities.
• Versatile Repertoire: Incorporating double stops and slides into your playing adds harmonic and melodic sophistication.
• Strengthened Foundation: Power chords and palm muting form the backbone of many rock and funk styles, ensuring you’re equipped for a range of genres.

Guitar Techniques in This Lesson

Below is a list of the guitar techniques covered in this lesson, along with internal links to explore them further:

• Vibrato
• Slides
• String Bending
• Bluesy Bends
• Double Stops
• Hammer-Ons
• Pull-Offs
• Power Chords
• Palm Muting
• Syncopated Rhythms

This lesson is perfect for guitarists aiming to deepen their understanding of rock and funk techniques while paying homage to one of rock’s most iconic collaborations. Dive into the lesson and channel the spirit of Slash and Lenny Kravitz with confidence!