Still I'm Sad – Rainbow

Dive deep into the powerful and emotive guitar work of Ritchie Blackmore with our note-for-note guitar lesson for Still I'm Sad by Rainbow. Originally a Yardbirds song, Rainbow’s rendition transforms it into a haunting, hard rock instrumental full of classical influences, expressive phrasing, and technical prowess. At LickLibrary.com, we break down every section of this track with detailed lessons designed to help guitarists master the distinct techniques used by one of rock's most innovative guitar players. Whether you're looking to elevate your lead guitar phrasing, refine your articulation, or explore neo-classical inspirations, this lesson offers a wealth of learning. Danny Gill breaks down this classic track in this exclusive Lick Library video tutorial.

About the Guitar Player: Ritchie Blackmore

Ritchie Blackmore, the mastermind behind Rainbow and a founding member of Deep Purple, is revered for pioneering the fusion of classical music with rock guitar. His melodic sensibility, aggressive picking style, and masterful use of dynamics set the foundation for what many consider the birth of neo-classical rock guitar. In Still I'm Sad, Blackmore's emotive playing and technical intricacy are on full display. His influence can be heard in guitarists across the metal and shred genres, from Yngwie Malmsteen to Paul Gilbert, making this lesson not only a study in technique but a tribute to a legend of rock guitar.

Technique Breakdown

Vibrato

Ritchie Blackmore’s expressive vibrato breathes life into each note. In this lesson, you’ll learn to control vibrato speed and width to match the emotive tone of the piece. Mastering vibrato not only enhances phrasing but also helps create a vocal-like quality in your lead playing.

Alternate Picking

Fluid and articulate runs throughout the song require precise alternate picking. Our breakdown helps build the muscle memory needed for clean execution at speed. Alternate picking is essential for improving speed, accuracy, and rhythmic consistency.

Legato

There are several smooth, flowing passages in the solo that make use of legato phrasing. Incorporating hammer-ons, pull-offs, and slides seamlessly into your playing adds fluidity and reduces pick noise. Learning legato increases your ability to play long phrases effortlessly.

Slides

Melodic transitions are often enhanced with expressive slides, particularly in Blackmore's phrasing. This technique is key to developing smooth note transitions and adding vocal-style emotion to solos.

String Bending

Blackmore’s expressive leads also make heavy use of string bending. Accurate bends, both full and microtonal, are broken down in the lesson. Bending improves your ear training and adds emotional depth to solos.

Hammer-ons and Pull-offs

Combining hammer-ons and pull-offs gives your phrasing agility and fluidity. We break these down in both slow and performance tempo to help you embed them into your technique.

Arpeggios

Neo-classical passages in the song highlight the use of arpeggios to outline chord changes and add melodic sophistication. Learning these patterns enhances your understanding of harmony and solo construction.

Double Stops

Blackmore also utilises double stops to thicken melodic lines and add harmonic color. Double stops are essential for creating a fuller sound in solos and licks.

Palm Muting

To accentuate certain rhythmic phrases, palm muting is employed. This technique offers dynamic control and can add percussive bite to your picking.

Sustain

Strategically holding notes with rich sustain adds drama and emotion. You’ll learn how to maximise sustain through proper technique and amp interaction.

Why Learn This Song?

Still I'm Sad isn’t just a song — it’s a study in expressive, melodic lead guitar. Learning it offers a wide range of benefits:

• Ear Training – Match pitch with bends and vibrato more precisely.
• Phrasing Development – Learn to “speak” with your guitar.
• Neo-Classical Foundation – Explore a cornerstone of the genre’s roots.
• Improvisational Inspiration – Apply these licks and techniques in your own solos.

This lesson is ideal for intermediate to advanced guitarists looking to deepen their technical and emotional playing. By studying this song, you'll develop a deeper connection to your instrument and improve both your lead guitar vocabulary and control.

Guitar Techniques Used in this Lesson

• Vibrato
• Alternate Picking
• Legato
• Slides
• String Bending
• Hammer-ons
• Pull-offs
• Arpeggios
• Double Stops
• Palm Muting
• Sustain

Unlock the timeless emotion and power of Still I'm Sad with this immersive lesson, and take your guitar playing to the next level with the guidance of LickLibrary's expert tutors.