The Shocker by Steel Panther

Steel Panther’s “The Shocker” is a no-holds-barred anthem of glam metal excess, packed with high-octane guitar riffs, blazing solos, and crowd-pleasing techniques that will challenge and inspire any intermediate to advanced guitarist. At Licklibrary, we’ve taken this outrageous shred-fest and broken it down note for note, providing in-depth guitar lessons that spotlight the key techniques used throughout the song. Whether you're looking to expand your metal guitar vocabulary or simply want to master every lick like Satchel himself, this lesson offers the tools and techniques to elevate your playing. Danny Gill breaks down this classic track in this exclusive Lick Library video tutorial.

Meet the Guitarist: Satchel of Steel Panther

Russ Parrish, better known as Satchel, is the guitar maestro behind Steel Panther’s tongue-in-cheek glam metal revival. Combining virtuosity with a flair for theatrics, Satchel brings the attitude of ‘80s shredders like George Lynch and Eddie Van Halen into the modern age. His playing in “The Shocker” is a masterclass in style, tone, and technical proficiency. Through the Licklibrary lesson, viewers can dissect his melodic sensibilities and aggressive playing style, gaining valuable insight into the mind of one of glam metal’s finest guitarists.

Technique Focus: Dive-Bomb Heaven

One of the defining elements of “The Shocker” is the use of dive-bombs, executed with mastery and control. These whammy bar flourishes add drama and flair, perfect for replicating the over-the-top attitude Steel Panther is known for. Learning this technique helps players enhance their dynamic range and stage presence, pushing expressiveness to new levels.

Mastering Pinched Harmonics

Satchel frequently uses pinched harmonics to accentuate riffs and solos. These squeals slice through the mix and are a staple of the glam and heavy metal sound. Learning to consistently execute pinched harmonics builds picking control and improves tone articulation.

Unleashing Two-Handed Tapping

The solo section is a showcase of two-handed tapping, reminiscent of Eddie Van Halen's iconic style. This technique allows players to perform rapid-fire arpeggios and extended melodic lines beyond the reach of standard fretting. Incorporating tapping into your repertoire not only increases your technical abilities but also adds a fresh, fluid voice to your solos.

Sweep Picking Licks

One of the most challenging techniques in the lesson is sweep picking, used in arpeggiated runs that slice through the solo with precision. Mastering this technique enhances a player's coordination and synchronisation, making complex passages feel seamless and efficient.

Alternate Picking for Speed and Clarity

Steel Panther’s rhythm work demands tight, accurate alternate picking. This technique is essential for achieving speed without sacrificing clarity. Practicing alternate picking sharpens timing and builds endurance, especially useful for fast-paced metal riffing.

Legato Passages

Throughout the solos, there are moments of silky-smooth legato playing. This technique, involving fluid hammer-ons and pull-offs, creates seamless phrasing and adds contrast to the more aggressive sections. Developing a strong legato technique gives solos a polished, effortless feel.

Vibrato for Expression

Satchel’s expressive vibrato is another signature component of his style, adding character and emotion to his phrases. Learning controlled vibrato will allow students to enhance the feel and soulfulness of their lead playing.

Dual Guitar Harmonies

The song features layered dual guitar harmonies, giving the music its rich, full-bodied sound. Learning these harmonies not only improves pitch awareness and timing but also offers insight into arranging for multiple guitars.

Harmonics and Trills

Melodic trills and artificial harmonics pepper the solos, adding nuance and colour. These are advanced techniques that bring subtle sophistication to an already high-energy track, helping players inject dynamics and tonal variation into their own solos.

Techniques Covered in This Lesson

• Dive Bombs
• Pinched Harmonics
• Two-Handed Tapping
• Sweep Picking
• Alternate Picking
• Legato
• Vibrato
• Dual Guitar Harmonies
• Trills
• Harmonics

By learning “The Shocker” through Licklibrary’s detailed video lesson, you’ll sharpen your metal technique toolbox, gain deeper musical insight, and walk away with the skills to play this explosive anthem like a true glam metal shredder. Whether you're on the road to virtuosity or simply a Steel Panther fan, this is one guitar lesson that delivers serious shock value.