Top Funk Guitar Riffs Of All Time - The Meters - Cissy Strut

Welcome to one of LickLibrary's premier guitar lessons, featuring one of the funkiest tracks ever recorded: "Cissy Strut" by The Meters. This lesson delves deep into the track, meticulously breaking down its techniques and offering guitarists of all levels the opportunity to master some of the most iconic funk guitar riffs of all time.

In this comprehensive lesson taught by Mitch Laddie, students will explore "Cissy Strut" in its entirety, focusing on two pivotal guitar techniques: string bending and syncopated rhythms. These techniques not only define the funk genre but are also crucial in shaping the distinct sound of The Meters.

Techniques Featured

String Bending

String bending is a technique where the player pushes or pulls a string along the fretboard, effectively altering the pitch to reach new musical expressions. In "Cissy Strut," string bending is used to add a vocal-like quality to the guitar, making the phrases more expressive and emotionally resonant. Learning this technique enhances a player’s ability to convey feelings and nuances, making their overall playing more dynamic and expressive.

Syncopated Rhythms

Syncopation involves accenting a beat that is typically unaccented in the given meter, creating a compelling and unexpected rhythmic structure. "Cissy Strut" utilizes syncopated rhythms to add complexity and a groovy, toe-tapping feel to the music. Mastering these rhythms can significantly improve a guitarist's timing and feel for the groove, essential skills for anyone looking to excel in funk music or any rhythm-heavy genre.

The Meters and Their Influence

The Meters, hailing from New Orleans, are revered as pioneers of funk. Their guitarist, Leo Nocentelli, whose work we dissect in this lesson, is known for his crisp, clean guitar playing that perfectly complements the band’s tight rhythm section. Nocentelli’s playing on "Cissy Strut" has inspired countless musicians and continues to influence guitarists across genres. Understanding his techniques and approach provides valuable insights into the fundamentals of funk and the broader landscape of popular music.

Benefits of the Lesson

This lesson is not just about learning a song; it's about embracing the rhythm and soul of funk music. Students will not only gain technical skills but also develop a deeper musical intuition that can be applied across all styles of music. Additionally, understanding the historical and cultural context of "Cissy Strut" enriches the learning experience, connecting students with a vital piece of music history.

Conclusion

"Cissy Strut" by The Meters is more than just a song; it's a monument in the landscape of funk music. This LickLibrary lesson provides all the tools needed to master the track and delve into the artistry of funk guitar playing. Whether you're a beginner eager to learn the basics or an advanced player looking to refine your technique and feel, this lesson is tailored to help you achieve your musical goals.

Guitar Techniques Used in This Lesson

Below is a list of techniques used in our lessons. Each linked term will provide further insights and examples that are instrumental for any learning guitarist:

• String Bending
• Syncopated Rhythms

Explore these techniques to deepen your understanding and enhance your playing skills. Each lesson at LickLibrary is designed to offer comprehensive learning experiences, ensuring every student can grow at their own pace and emerge with a robust set of skills.