Are You Gonna Go My Way by Lenny Kravitz

Introduction

Dive into the electrifying grooves and high-energy riffs of Lenny Kravitz's iconic song, "Are You Gonna Go My Way". This note-for-note guitar lesson from Licklibrary.com dissects every element of the track, allowing guitarists to master the unique techniques that make this song a rock masterpiece. Whether you're a beginner looking to elevate your playing or a seasoned guitarist aiming to capture the soul of Kravitz's music, this lesson has something for everyone. Michael Casswell breaks down this classic track in this exclusive Lick Library video tutorial.

About the Song and Its Guitar Legacy

"Are You Gonna Go My Way" is a defining track from Lenny Kravitz, released in 1993. Its infectious riff and searing lead lines were brought to life by Kravitz and his longtime collaborator, guitarist Craig Ross. Known for his bluesy tone and effortless integration of vintage and modern guitar elements, Ross has influenced generations of guitarists with his creativity and raw energy. The song itself showcases a blend of classic rock, funk, and blues influences, creating a timeless sound that continues to inspire.

Techniques Covered in the Lesson

This lesson focuses on the critical techniques used in "Are You Gonna Go My Way," breaking them down into digestible segments to help you nail the song's signature style. Here's a closer look at each technique:

Vibrato

Vibrato is essential for adding emotion and personality to your playing. In this track, Craig Ross uses subtle but effective vibrato to make notes sing and sustain. Mastering vibrato enhances your expressive capabilities and brings depth to your solos.

Alternate Picking

The song’s driving riff requires precise alternate picking, a technique that ensures fluidity and speed. Learning this will improve your accuracy and stamina, essential for tackling fast-paced rock songs.

String Bending

From soulful bends to dynamic pre-bends, string bending is a cornerstone of this track’s expressive guitar work. This technique not only replicates the vocal-like quality of the lead lines but also strengthens your fingers and enhances tonal control.

Pull-Offs and Hammer-Ons

The riff and solos incorporate pull-offs and hammer-ons, creating fluid transitions between notes. These techniques are foundational for legato playing, allowing for smooth, effortless phrasing.

Double Stops

The use of double stops adds a rich, harmonic layer to the guitar parts. This technique is excellent for expanding your chord vocabulary and creating fuller-sounding arrangements.

Palm Muting

Palm muting is essential for achieving the tight, percussive rhythm found in the track’s main riff. Practicing this technique develops dynamic control and helps you add groove to your playing.

Slides

Sliding between notes and chords brings a bluesy, expressive quality to the riffs and solos. This technique enhances your ability to connect musical ideas seamlessly across the fretboard.

Bluesy Bends

The song’s lead sections are packed with bluesy bends, a hallmark of classic rock solos. These bends provide a gritty, soulful feel, ideal for conveying emotion and attitude in your playing.

Power Chords

The energetic rhythm of the song is driven by power chords, a staple of rock guitar. Learning this technique helps you build strong, dynamic rhythm skills essential for any rock guitarist.

Benefits of Learning These Techniques

• Broaden Your Repertoire: The techniques in this song are widely used in rock, blues, and funk, making them versatile additions to your skill set.
• Enhance Musicality: Mastering these elements improves your phrasing, timing, and overall musical expression.
• Develop Technique and Dexterity: From alternate picking to string bending, this lesson challenges and strengthens your technical abilities.

Guitar Techniques Used in This Lesson

Here’s a list of guitar techniques featured in this lesson, along with links for further exploration:

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

Explore these techniques and bring the magic of "Are You Gonna Go My Way" to life on your guitar!