"Good Enough" by Van Halen: Guitar Lesson

The Basics and Beyond

Sam Bell takes us through "Good Enough", a beast of a song that takes us on a rollercoaster ride through Eddie Van Halen's monstrous guitar vocabulary. Recorded for the 1986 album "5150," this track can be considered an epitome of the glam-metal and hard rock era. Eddie's approach to the guitar work here is both meticulous and spontaneous, revealing layers that can be analysed for days.

Chords and Scales

The song kicks off with a chugging rhythm pattern based on power chords, fundamentally sticking to the backbone of rock and roll. The power chords ring through an A5 to G5 to D5 progression, then jumps to an E5 that signals the transition. This simple movement provides an ample amount of space for the lead guitar to scream, howl, and pierce through.

When we get to the solos, Eddie frequently employs the Minor Pentatonic and the Blues scale. These scales, particularly in the key of A minor, allow for a perfect blend of melody and tension.

The Solo Analysis

Eddie Van Halen's solo in "Good Enough" is a compilation of his signature techniques. He kicks it off with a series of legato licks, throwing in some alternate picking for a cleaner, faster execution. Soon enough, he transitions into tapped harmonics, giving the solo a bell-like quality. To add more texture, he throws in a few double-stop bends and unison bends, showing his mastery over the fretboard.

One of the most captivating moments in the solo is when he employs dive-bombs with his whammy bar, descending into sonic oblivion before resurfacing with an ascending arpeggio. This dramatic flair is what makes Eddie a guitar hero. The manipulation of the whammy bar gives a vocal-like quality to the guitar, showcasing his signature style.

Lead Guitarist: Eddie Van Halen

Eddie is not just a guitarist; he's an institution. His approach to "Good Enough" highlights his ability to blend musicality with technique seamlessly. His comfort across the fretboard, coupled with his extensive knowledge of scales and modes, allows him to craft solos that are both intellectually engaging and emotionally compelling. His feel for dynamics, pacing, and musical context turns every lick, every bend, and every harmonic into a statement.

What sets Eddie apart in this song is not just his technical prowess but also his ability to speak through his instrument. The guitar isn’t just playing notes; it's communicating, making the listener feel every emotion that's packed into those strings.

Guitar Techniques Employed

Here's a list of techniques you'll encounter while dissecting this masterpiece:

• Vibrato
• Alternate Picking
• Legato
• Tapped Harmonics
• Double-Stop Bends
• Unison Bends
• Pinched Harmonics
• Dive-Bombs
• Arpeggios
• Power Chords

So, "Good Enough" is a playground for guitarists. Whether you're a seasoned shredder or an intermediate player, you'll find something to sink your teeth into. The song encapsulates what Eddie Van Halen was all about — raw power, intricate details, and above all, heart.