Don't Believe a Word – Thin Lizzy, Live and Dangerous: Guitar Lesson

There's a reason why "Don't Believe a Word" from Thin Lizzy's legendary album 'Live and Dangerous' is considered a gem in the realm of rock. This song is a masterclass in guitar playing, encompassing dynamic ranges, scales, and techniques that stand as exemplars for budding guitarists. Danny Gill shows you every nuance of one of rock's most beloved tracks.

Chord Progressions and Scales

Primarily set in A Minor, the chord progression revolves around classic rock staples: A5 - D5 - G5, mainly leaning on the simplicity of power chords. This straightforward backdrop allows for the melody and the solos to come to the forefront. Scales used are the A Minor Pentatonic and A Dorian, offering a rich palette for the solos and fills.

Lead Guitarists and Their Playing

The band had not one but two lead guitarists: Scott Gorham and Brian Robertson. Gorham mostly leans into the bluesier aspects, with articulate bends and subtle vibratos. On the other hand, Robertson tends to be more aggressive with faster runs and scorching pinched harmonics.

Solo Analysis

Ah, the guitar solo! The first solo in the song follows a 12-bar blues pattern and primarily uses the A Minor Pentatonic scale. There is a beautiful blend of alternate picking for faster runs and legato techniques for smoother transitions. You will notice a generous use of double-stop bends for extra expression.

The second solo breaks free from the pentatonic constraint and explores the Dorian mode. There is a seamless use of tapped harmonics to add some ethereal quality to the solo, elevating it from just another rock solo to a piece of art. Unison bends add a vocal-like expression, humanising the guitar's voice.

Towards the end, a dual-guitar harmony comes into play, where both guitarists play similar phrases but in harmonising scales. This is where you can actually understand the genius of having two lead guitarists with distinct styles yet so compatible.

Technique List

Alright, let's wrap this up with a neat list of techniques that are used in this masterpiece. As you go back to listen to "Don't Believe a Word," see if you can spot these!

• Vibrato
• Alternate Picking
• Legato
• Tapped Harmonics
• Double-Stop Bends
• Unison Bends
• Pinched Harmonics
• Power Chords
• Dual-Guitar Harmonies

Each of these techniques adds a layer to the song, making it rich and evocative, and collectively elevating it to an extraordinary musical experience. The beauty of this song is that it serves as a fantastic study piece for aspiring rock guitarists, yet remains endlessly enjoyable for casual listeners. It's a true musical gem that captures the essence of Thin Lizzy’s dual-lead guitar dynamics and continues to inspire guitarists today.