Message in a Bottle - The Police

"Message in a Bottle" by The Police is a classic track that has not only stood the test of time but also offers guitarists a treasure trove of techniques to explore. This LickLibrary lesson breaks down Andy Summers' iconic guitar work and gives you the opportunity to master the techniques used throughout the song, taking your playing to the next level. Whether you're a beginner or an advanced player, this lesson provides a comprehensive look at key guitar techniques that are not only essential for playing "Message in a Bottle" but also beneficial for your overall guitar proficiency. Jamie Humphries breaks down this classic track in this exclusive Lick Library video tutorial.

The Guitar Techniques in "Message in a Bottle"

One of the reasons Andy Summers' guitar work on "Message in a Bottle" is so revered is because of the unique combination of rhythmic patterns and melodic ideas that he uses. In this lesson, you'll be focusing on several key techniques that are featured throughout the song.

Arpeggiated Chord Progressions

A cornerstone of this song is the arpeggiated chord progression, which defines the main riff. Instead of strumming chords in a traditional manner, Summers plays individual notes of the chords, creating a flowing, melodic sound that drives the song. This approach emphasises clarity in each note, encouraging precision in both your picking hand and fretting hand.

Benefit: Learning to play arpeggiated chord progressions not only improves your finger dexterity and picking accuracy but also helps you understand how to break down chords into melodic sequences. This is a technique widely used in both classical and modern music, making it versatile and beneficial for guitarists of all levels.

String Bending and Vibrato

In the song’s lead sections, you’ll encounter subtle string bending and vibrato techniques. Andy Summers employs these techniques to add emotional expression to his playing, bending notes to reach the desired pitch while adding vibrato to sustain and enrich those notes.

Benefit: Mastering these techniques helps develop a keen sense of pitch and control, enabling you to add a personal touch to melodies. Bending the string to reach the right pitch is a fundamental skill in blues and rock music, while vibrato enhances sustain and depth, making your notes sing.

Syncopated Rhythms

Throughout the song, syncopated rhythms play a critical role in creating the dynamic, rhythmic feel. Syncopation refers to playing off the beat, adding an unpredictable and driving groove. Summers does this seamlessly, enhancing the flow and groove of the track.

Benefit: Learning syncopated rhythms can dramatically improve your sense of timing and rhythm, making your playing more engaging and less predictable. This skill is crucial for players wanting to branch into styles like funk, jazz, and reggae.

Barre Chords

Barre chords are used in various sections of "Message in a Bottle," particularly in the song's driving chorus. Mastering barre chords allows you to move fluidly up and down the fretboard, providing access to a wide range of voicings.

Benefit: Learning barre chords is a vital technique for all guitarists, as it opens the door to playing a wide variety of chord shapes across the neck. Barre chords strengthen your fingers and give you greater versatility when playing rhythm guitar.

Alternate Picking

The picking hand is crucial in this song, as Summers utilises alternate picking to achieve a steady, fluid motion while playing the arpeggios. By alternating between downstrokes and upstrokes, you can maintain speed and consistency throughout the track.

Benefit: Developing alternate picking increases your efficiency and speed, allowing you to tackle more complex passages without losing rhythm or precision. This technique is a must for any guitarist aiming to play faster, more intricate melodies or riffs.

Andy Summers' Influence and Playing Style

Andy Summers, the guitarist for The Police, is known for his innovative use of chords, textures, and minimalist approach to lead guitar. He often favoured clean, chiming tones and eschewed flashy, high-speed solos in favor of more atmospheric and rhythmically interesting parts. Summers' playing on "Message in a Bottle" showcases his ability to take simple ideas and expand them into rich, intricate parts that form the backbone of the song.

His influence reaches far beyond The Police, inspiring generations of guitarists who appreciate his blend of sophistication and restraint. Summers' approach is a masterclass in how to do more with less—using fewer notes but making every one count. For guitarists looking to improve their creativity and subtlety, studying his style offers numerous benefits.

Guitar Techniques Used in This Lesson

• Arpeggiated Chord Progressions
• String Bending
• Vibrato
• Syncopated Rhythms
• Barre Chords
• Alternate Picking

By mastering these techniques, you’ll not only be able to play "Message in a Bottle" with confidence but also enhance your overall guitar skills, making you a more versatile and expressive guitarist.