Kickstart My Heart by Mötley Crüe: An In-Depth Guitar Lesson

"Kickstart My Heart" by Mötley Crüe is not just an electrifying rock anthem but a treasure trove of guitar techniques that can elevate any guitarist's playing style. This song is perfect for learners looking to dive deep into the realm of hard rock guitar skills, including altered tunings, power chords, palm muting, and whammy bar tricks. Our lesson, taught by Sam Bell, breaks down each of these techniques, providing guitar enthusiasts with the opportunity to learn and master what makes this track so iconic.

Techniques Used

Altered Tunings

Altered tunings bring a fresh dimension to the guitar's sound and playability. In "Kickstart My Heart," the altered tuning lays the foundational tone that makes the song's riff so memorable. This technique allows for richer, more resonant chords and unique melodic possibilities that standard tuning cannot achieve. Learning this skill not only enhances your ability to play Mötley Crüe's hits but also broadens your horizons for songwriting and adaptation of other music genres.

Power Chords

Power chords are the backbone of rock guitar music. They deliver a robust and impactful sound that defines the genre's energetic feel. Our lesson on "Kickstart My Heart" explores the dynamics of power chords, their placement, and how they contribute to the driving force behind the track. This skill is essential for anyone aspiring to play rock music, providing a solid foundation for both rhythm and lead guitar roles.

Palm Muting

Palm muting in "Kickstart My Heart" is crucial for creating the gritty, percussive quality that punctuates the song. This technique involves damping the strings with the palm of the picking hand to produce a chunky, muted sound that complements the aggressive tone of the track. It’s particularly useful for controlling the guitar’s sonic texture and dynamics, making it a versatile skill for various musical styles.

Whammy Bar Tricks

The whammy bar, or tremolo bar, adds expressiveness and flair to lead guitar lines. In our lesson, you’ll learn how to use the whammy bar to perform dive bombs and subtle vibrato effects that are signature to Mötley Crüe’s lead guitarist, Mick Mars. This technique enhances your expressive range and can dramatically increase the emotional impact of your solos.

About Mick Mars and His Influence

Mick Mars, the lead guitarist for Mötley Crüe, is renowned for his melodic inventiveness and technical prowess. His guitar playing on "Kickstart My Heart" showcases his ability to blend speed, precision, and creativity. Mars’ style has influenced a generation of guitarists looking to combine technical skill with unique sound effects. Learning his parts not only pays homage to his contributions but also instills a keen sense of musicality and innovation in learners.

List of Guitar Techniques Used in Our Lessons

Here is a list of various guitar techniques covered across our lessons, which you can explore further by visiting the respective links for more detailed insights:

• Altered Tunings
• Power Chords
• Palm Muting
• Whammy Bar Tricks

Each of these techniques opens up new avenues for personal expression and proficiency on the guitar. Whether you are a beginner looking to get the basics down or an advanced player aiming to refine your skills, our comprehensive lessons cater to all levels. Dive into the heart of rock guitar with "Kickstart My Heart" and unleash your musical potential.