"Best of Both Worlds" by Van Halen: Guitar Lesson

Van Halen’s "Best of Both Worlds" is an embodiment of the rock idiom, driven forward by Eddie Van Halen’s distinct guitar approach. The song is a masterclass for guitarists in blending chordal harmony, tasteful soloing, and rhythmic complexity. Sam Bell takes us through the entire track.

Chords and Harmony

The main riff of "Best of Both Worlds" utilises power chords and open string notes, offering a lush, yet biting tone. We encounter a variety of chords—predominantly E, A, D, B—that interplay to set the overall harmonic landscape. The chord progressions provide a framework that grounds the song, allowing the other instruments to experiment rhythmically and melodically.

Scales

When it comes to scales, the song doesn't shy away from exploiting the beauty of the natural minor and Mixolydian modes. These scales serve as a playground for the song's solos and lead melodies, infusing them with both a bluesy edge and a rock attitude.

Eddie Van Halen and His Soloing Style

What makes this song a gem in the rock guitar canon is, of course, Eddie Van Halen’s blistering solo. It's worth mentioning the solo starts with an explosive burst of alternate picking that leads into complex legato lines. Eddie showcases his command over the instrument by stringing together rapid-fire runs, tapped harmonics, and double-stop bends in a fluid, melodic narrative. His use of the whammy bar adds flair without sacrificing musicality.

If you analyse the solo bar-by-bar, you'll notice Eddie's keen ear for phrasing and rhythmic variation. He knows when to let a note sing with vibrato and when to pepper in a series of quick trills or pinched harmonics for texture. Moreover, his application of arpeggios gives the solo an added sense of harmonic depth. The solo feels like a journey—it starts, develops, and concludes, leaving the listener both satisfied and awe-struck.

Technique and Finesse

Van Halen was a pioneer of techniques like two-handed tapping and dive bombs. In "Best of Both Worlds," he gives us a palette of these techniques but executed with restraint. The tapped harmonics offer an ethereal quality that juxtaposes well with the grit of the distorted chords. Meanwhile, his vibrato and bending techniques are so emotionally charged that they almost vocalise his guitar. Every note seems to have a purpose; nothing is wasted.

One key aspect that shouldn't be overlooked is Eddie's pick-hand control. Alternate picking and palm muting are used strategically to provide dynamic range, making the riffs and licks jump out at different intensities. Even within a single phrase, the picking techniques change to serve the musical statement Eddie is making.

List of Guitar Techniques Used:

• Vibrato
• Alternate Picking
• Legato
• Tapped Harmonics
• Double-Stop Bends
• Pinched Harmonics
• Trills
• Arpeggios
• Two-Handed Tapping
• Palm Muting
• Chord Progressions

This song is a treasure trove for aspiring guitarists and even seasoned pros can find fresh inspiration here. The late Eddie Van Halen's ingenuity shines throughout, making "Best of Both Worlds" a compelling study for anyone eager to elevate their guitar skills. His relentless pursuit of musical expression and technical prowess coalesce into a rock anthem that stands the test of time. And what's more, it offers the best of both worlds—a solid musical composition and a technical tour de force.