Start Me Up by The Rolling Stones

If you're a fan of classic rock and want to delve into the magic of Keith Richards' iconic guitar work, our guitar lesson for "Start Me Up" by The Rolling Stones is perfect for you. This lesson breaks down the key guitar techniques and nuances that define this timeless track. With detailed step-by-step guidance, you'll learn to play every riff, chord progression, and subtle detail that makes this song a staple of the rock genre. Michael Casswell breaks down this iconic track in this exclusive Lick Library video tutorial.

The Rolling Stones and Keith Richards

"Start Me Up" is one of The Rolling Stones' most well-known songs, released in 1981 as part of their album Tattoo You. The band, fronted by Mick Jagger and driven by Keith Richards' legendary guitar work, crafted a sound that shaped the face of rock 'n' roll. Keith Richards, known for his unconventional approach to guitar playing, often uses open tunings and a combination of rhythm and lead techniques. His influence on the song "Start Me Up" reflects his mastery of tight riffs, powerful chord progressions, and rhythmic precision. Ron Wood, the other guitar player in the band, complements Richards' style with dual-guitar harmonies and accent riffs.

Keith's playing on "Start Me Up" captures the essence of rock guitar, blending elements of blues, rock, and reggae. His approach has influenced countless guitarists over the decades and remains an essential style to learn for anyone serious about rock guitar.

Key Techniques in "Start Me Up"

Open G Tuning

One of the defining features of "Start Me Up" is Keith Richards' use of open G tuning. This alternative tuning allows for rich, resonant chords that would be difficult to replicate in standard tuning. It’s a simple yet powerful technique that opens up new possibilities for chord voicings and simplified finger positioning. Learning open G tuning not only helps with this song but also introduces you to other Stones classics and slide guitar.

Power Chords and Barre Chords

Richards employs both power chords and barre chords to deliver the iconic riff in "Start Me Up". Power chords, typically played with just two or three notes, provide the song's driving rhythm. Barre chords, on the other hand, require more strength and precision, allowing you to play chords across the fretboard in different positions. Mastering these chord types will greatly enhance your ability to play rock music across different genres and songs.

Syncopated Rhythms

The song’s rhythmic feel is heavily reliant on syncopation. Richards is known for his ability to play behind the beat, adding a groove and swing to the song that gives it an infectious, driving energy. Syncopated rhythms require timing and a strong sense of groove, making it an essential skill for guitarists who want to develop their rhythm playing. By learning the syncopated rhythms in "Start Me Up," you'll improve your timing and rhythmic creativity.

Slides

In "Start Me Up," Keith Richards frequently uses slides between chord shapes and notes to add a fluid, almost vocal-like quality to his guitar playing. Slides are a common technique in blues and rock, allowing for smoother transitions and adding expression to your playing. They are also perfect for mimicking vocal melodies or creating tension and release in your solos or riffs.

Double Stops

Another hallmark of Richards’ style is the use of double stops, where two notes are played simultaneously. In "Start Me Up," this technique is used to create rich harmonies that add fullness to the song’s arrangement. Double stops are a versatile tool that can be applied in both rhythm and lead playing, allowing you to add depth to your guitar parts.

Vibrato

Keith’s use of vibrato adds an expressive dimension to his lead lines and embellishments in the song. Vibrato involves slightly varying the pitch of a note by rapidly bending and releasing the string, which can make sustained notes sound more alive and dynamic. Vibrato is a critical technique to master for any guitarist looking to improve their expressiveness, especially in rock and blues music.

Chord Progressions

"Start Me Up" features a classic chord progression that drives the song forward with its repetitive yet catchy nature. Understanding and applying chord progressions is essential for composing and structuring songs, and learning the progression in "Start Me Up" provides a solid foundation for constructing your own rock riffs and songs.

Benefits of Learning These Techniques

Learning these techniques from "Start Me Up" will not only improve your ability to play the song accurately but will also elevate your overall guitar playing skills. By focusing on each technique individually, you'll build a more comprehensive guitar toolkit, allowing you to tackle other songs in the Rolling Stones’ catalog and beyond. Mastering these techniques will enhance your rhythm, timing, expressiveness, and fretboard knowledge, making you a more versatile player.

List of Techniques Used in "Start Me Up" Guitar Lesson

• Open G Tuning
• Power Chords
• Barre Chords
• Syncopated Rhythms
• Slides
• Double Stops
• Vibrato
• Chord Progressions

With our in-depth breakdown of "Start Me Up," you'll master these core techniques and develop your own style. Let’s get started and rock those riffs!