Van Halen's "Get Up" - Guitar Lesson

Sam Bell delves into one of Van Halen's lesser-known but groundbreaking tracks, "Get Up," from the album '5150.' This song serves as an awe-inspiring clinic on what makes Eddie Van Halen a guitar genius. From the song's frantic energy to the jaw-dropping guitar techniques, "Get Up" offers a treasure trove of guitar wisdom.

Chords and Scales

The backbone of "Get Up" is built on a series of power chords. The signature sound comes alive in the verse where we hear a recurring riff that flirts with A5, B5, and C5 power chords. It's fundamentally straightforward but Eddie adds his nuances that make it sparkle. The solo section modulates, employing both major and minor chords, which adds a layer of complexity to the track.

Scales-wise, Eddie is playing mainly in the minor pentatonic and natural minor scales, injecting some Mixolydian flavour for added colour. These scales serve as the canvas where Eddie paints his solos and riffs. He makes use of these scales not just as a roadmap for the notes but also as a gateway to his endless bag of techniques.

Guitar Solo Analysis

Eddie's guitar solo in "Get Up" is like a roller coaster of musical emotions. He kicks off the solo with a series of legato runs that flow smoothly into a double-stop bend. You can hear the emotion dripping from each note as he incorporates masterful vibrato. As he reaches the climax, Eddie employs tapped harmonics, lending an ethereal quality to the soundscape. The speed and precision are astonishing.

The middle part of the solo switches gears with alternate picking, where Eddie shreds through arpeggios like a madman. You'll notice subtle sweep picking blended in, showcasing his effortless control over his picking hand. The tail end of the solo is where Eddie employs his trademark two-handed tapping, making it look so easy and fluid. All of these are executed in a tasteful manner that serves the song, making it a memorable musical moment.

Eddie Van Halen - The Man Behind The Strings

What makes Eddie's playing so compelling in "Get Up" is not just his technical prowess but also his musicality. His soulful vibrato, expressive bends, and impeccable timing turn mere notes into storytelling elements. He manages to encapsulate a wide range of feelings and thoughts into a song that's less than five minutes long. It's this unique blend of technical mastery and emotional depth that makes Eddie a legendary guitarist.

Techniques Used in "Get Up"

Here is a list of techniques that Eddie employs in this musical masterpiece:

• Vibrato
• Alternate Picking
• Legato
• Tapped Harmonics
• Double-Stop Bends
• Arpeggios
• Two-Handed Tapping
• Sweep Picking
• Power Chords

Conclusion

"Get Up" by Van Halen serves as a fantastic study material for any guitarist keen to enhance their skill set. It's not just about the flashy solos and finger gymnastics; it's about conveying emotion and musical ideas efficiently. From the power chords that fuel the song's energy to the dizzying array of techniques used in the solo, "Get Up" encapsulates what makes Eddie Van Halen one of the greatest guitarists ever. He proves that in the realm of guitar, the sky is not the limit; it's just the beginning.