Goin' Crazy! by Steve Vai

The song "Goin' Crazy!" by Steve Vai is a dynamic showcase of his legendary guitar prowess and an excellent learning opportunity for guitarists of all levels. This lesson from Licklibrary.com dives deep into the techniques that define the song, offering a note-for-note breakdown of every iconic riff and solo. From flashy, intricate passages to groove-laden rhythms, this tutorial provides a thorough exploration of Vai's techniques, helping you enhance your guitar skills and creativity. Dave Kilminster breaks down this classic track in this exclusive Lick Library video tutorial.

About Steve Vai and the Song

Steve Vai is a guitar virtuoso renowned for his innovative style, technical mastery, and musical expressiveness. As a former member of David Lee Roth’s band and a celebrated solo artist, Vai has influenced countless guitarists with his unique blend of technique and artistry. "Goin' Crazy!" showcases Vai's versatility, combining flamboyant solos, funky rhythms, and playful melodies that push the boundaries of rock guitar.

Learning a piece like "Goin' Crazy!" connects you to Vai's artistry and influences, such as Frank Zappa’s experimental compositions and Eddie Van Halen’s pioneering guitar techniques. Through this song, players can discover the essence of Vai's style and the creative approaches that make his playing iconic.

Techniques Covered in the Lesson

This comprehensive lesson focuses on a variety of guitar techniques that appear in "Goin' Crazy!" Each technique is broken down in detail, allowing players to understand its mechanics and musical application.

Legato

Legato playing, a hallmark of Vai’s style, features prominently in this song. This technique involves smoothly connecting notes using hammer-ons and pull-offs, creating a flowing, effortless sound. Learning legato improves your finger strength and fluidity, making your playing more expressive and dynamic.

Tapped Harmonics

Tapped harmonics create ethereal, bell-like tones that add a magical touch to Vai’s solos. This technique requires precision and timing, helping you develop control and finesse in your playing.

String Bending

String bending is used extensively to add emotion and tension to the solos. From subtle half-step bends to dramatic full-step climbs, mastering this technique enhances your ability to convey feeling and depth in your playing.

Alternate Picking

Vai’s rapid-fire runs often employ alternate picking, a technique that involves alternating up and down strokes with the pick. This method boosts your speed, accuracy, and timing, essential skills for tackling fast passages.

Double Stops

Double stops—playing two notes simultaneously—are featured in the rhythm and lead sections. They add harmonic depth and texture, teaching you how to blend melody and harmony effectively.

Vibrato

Vai’s signature wide vibrato gives notes a vocal-like quality, making them sing with intensity. Developing your vibrato technique will enhance your sustain and emotional expressiveness.

Whammy Bar Tricks

The whammy bar is used creatively in "Goin' Crazy!" to add dive-bombs, pitch slides, and other dramatic effects. Practicing these tricks enhances your ability to experiment with sound and explore the guitar’s expressive capabilities.

Slides

Slides are integral to Vai’s smooth transitions and melodic phrasing. This technique adds fluidity and character to your playing, helping you connect phrases seamlessly.

Harmonics

Both natural and artificial harmonics are utilised in the song, producing shimmering overtones that enrich the tonal palette. Learning harmonics sharpens your accuracy and ear for subtle nuances.

Arpeggios

Arpeggios are used to outline chords with precision and clarity, creating a sophisticated, melodic texture. Practicing arpeggios enhances your understanding of chord shapes and fingerboard navigation.

Benefits of Learning These Techniques

• Enhanced Technique and Precision: The variety of techniques in "Goin' Crazy!" improves your overall guitar-playing ability.
• Improved Creativity: Exploring Vai’s unique approaches inspires new ideas and fosters innovation in your playing.
• Broader Musical Understanding: Studying Vai’s style deepens your knowledge of harmony, melody, and phrasing.
• Stronger Finger Dexterity: Techniques like legato, alternate picking, and arpeggios strengthen your fingers and improve dexterity.
• Greater Expressiveness: Techniques such as vibrato and string bending teach you how to infuse emotion into your playing.

Guitar Techniques List

Here’s a list of the guitar techniques featured in this lesson, with links to learn more about each:

• Vibrato
• Alternate Picking
• Legato
• Tapped Harmonics
• String Bending
• Double Stops
• Whammy Bar Tricks
• Slides
• Harmonics
• Arpeggios

Whether you're a Steve Vai fan or a guitarist looking to expand your skills, the "Goin' Crazy!" lesson is an exciting journey into the techniques and creativity of one of the greatest guitar players of all time. Dive in, and take your playing to the next level!