Only You Can Rock Me by UFO

"Only You Can Rock Me" by UFO is a classic rock anthem that showcases the exceptional guitar work of Michael Schenker. This song is a fantastic choice for guitarists looking to expand their skills through a blend of technical and melodic playing. At Licklibrary.com, our note-for-note guitar lesson offers an in-depth exploration of this iconic track, breaking down each riff, lick, and solo to help you master the techniques that define it. Dave Kilminster breaks down this classic track in this exclusive Lick Library video tutorial.

The Guitarist Behind the Song: Michael Schenker

Michael Schenker, a legendary guitarist known for his melodic and technically precise playing, was a key member of UFO during their most celebrated years. His signature style, characterised by soaring solos, expressive bends, and fluid legato phrases, has influenced countless players across genres. Schenker’s work on "Only You Can Rock Me" exemplifies his ability to combine technical skill with emotive expression, making him a cornerstone of the hard rock and metal guitar landscape.

Techniques Highlighted in the Lesson

This lesson is structured to not only teach you how to play the song but also to improve your overall technique and musical understanding. Below are the techniques focused on in this lesson, along with their benefits:

String Bending

The song features expressive string bending to create vocal-like phrasing in the solos. String bending helps players develop their ear for pitch accuracy and adds emotional depth to their playing.

Vibrato

Michael Schenker’s use of vibrato adds sustain and character to the notes. Practicing vibrato builds control and ensures your playing sounds polished and professional.

Alternate Picking

The rhythm and lead sections use precise alternate picking for clarity and speed. Mastering this technique improves picking efficiency and allows for greater speed in your playing.

Legato

Schenker’s smooth runs are a great example of legato playing, combining hammer-ons and pull-offs to create fluid phrases. Legato improves finger strength and helps with the execution of rapid note sequences.

Power Chords

The track's driving rhythm relies on power chords to provide energy and punch. Learning power chords is essential for creating a solid rock rhythm foundation.

Slides

Slides are used throughout the song for smooth transitions between notes. This technique enhances fluidity and adds a lyrical quality to your solos.

Harmonics

The use of harmonics adds a bright, bell-like texture to the track. Incorporating harmonics into your playing enriches your tonal palette and introduces new dynamics.

Unison Bends

The climactic solos feature unison bends for dramatic effect. Practicing unison bends improves finger strength and accuracy, while adding intensity to your solos.

Dual Guitar Harmonies

The song includes dual guitar harmonies, a hallmark of classic rock. This technique teaches you how to create layered, melodic interplay between guitars, enhancing both composition and live performance skills.

Why Learn "Only You Can Rock Me"?

Learning this track allows guitarists to experience the synergy between rhythm and lead playing, while also diving into the melodic genius of Michael Schenker. Whether you’re working on vibrato for emotional phrasing or mastering alternate picking for speed and precision, this song offers something for every player looking to elevate their skills.

By the end of the lesson, you’ll not only have a faithful rendition of the song under your belt but also a deeper understanding of the techniques and nuances that make Michael Schenker’s playing so iconic.

Techniques Covered in This Lesson

Below is a comprehensive list of guitar techniques covered in our "Only You Can Rock Me" lesson. Click on each to learn more about the technique:

• String Bending
• Vibrato
• Alternate Picking
• Legato
• Power Chords
• Slides
• Harmonics
• Unison Bends
• Dual Guitar Harmonies

Mastering these techniques will not only help you play "Only You Can Rock Me" with confidence but also enhance your overall guitar skills. Explore the links above for detailed guides on each technique, and take your playing to the next level with Licklibrary.com!