"Dance the Night Away" by Van Halen: Guitar Lesson

"Dance the Night Away" is a song from the album 'Van Halen II', a pivotal creation in the discography of Van Halen. What distinguishes this track for most guitarists is Eddie Van Halen's signature sound and technique. As we dive into this masterpiece, we'll explore the chords used, the guitar scales it revolves around, the defining guitar solo, and finally, a keen look at Eddie Van Halen's prowess in this track. Sam Bell breaks down this classic track note for note in this exclusive Lick Library video tutorial.

Chords and Scales

The song is fundamentally based in the key of A Major. The primary chords include: A Major, F# minor, D Major, and E Major. A touch of brilliance here is the way these chords, standard in many rock compositions, are breathed to life with Eddie's characteristic flair.

The scales used predominantly are the A Major scale and the A Mixolydian scale. Both scales serve as the foundation for the main riffs and the solo.

The Guitar Solo

Eddie's solo is a testament to his improvisational genius. Starting with an ascending sequence that utilises the A Major scale, he then switches to a blend of Mixolydian phrasing. One can identify his use of double-stops and vibrato that adds a sense of depth and emotion to every note.

The most commendable aspect is the balance - there are high-energy, fast-paced licks countered with slower, melodic phrasing, showcasing both his technical proficiency and his musicality.

Eddie Van Halen's Touch

Eddie's playing on this song can be described as both rhythmic and melodic. He didn't just play the guitar; he made it sing. Eddie had a knack for making simple chord progressions sound intricate with his use of arpeggios, hammer-ons, and pull-offs.

The driving rhythm is infused with syncopated rhythms, making the song danceable - apt given its title. There's also a touch of palm muting giving the riffs a percussive feel.

Techniques Used

Below is a list of the standout guitar techniques Eddie Van Halen employed in "Dance the Night Away". Click on each technique to delve deeper into its understanding:

• Vibrato
• Arpeggios
• Double-Stops
• Hammer-Ons
• Pull-Offs
• Palm Muting
• Syncopated Rhythms

Conclusion

"Dance the Night Away" stands as a beacon of Van Halen's brilliance and a testimony to Eddie Van Halen's transformative impact on rock guitar playing. For any guitarist, studying this track provides a gateway into understanding the blend of technique and emotion - the structured and the spontaneous. Whether you're playing the main riff, trying to nail the solo, or just jamming along, this song provides an enriching experience on the fretboard. It's a celebration of rock guitar at its finest, encapsulating the raw energy, technical prowess, and the sheer joy of playing.