You Really Got Me by Van Halen

Dive into the electrifying guitar techniques of Van Halen’s rendition of “You Really Got Me,” a song that showcases Eddie Van Halen's groundbreaking guitar style and innovation. This guitar lesson breaks down each iconic riff and solo, guiding you through note-for-note instructions on how to master the song’s techniques. From power chords to two-handed tapping, each element will help elevate your playing skills, bringing you closer to Van Halen’s powerful and precise guitar sound. Whether you’re aiming to emulate Eddie’s fierce energy or simply want to add these techniques to your guitar arsenal, this lesson offers a comprehensive look at each part of the song. Jamie Humphries breaks down this classic track in this exclusive Lick Library video tutorial.

About the Guitarist: Eddie Van Halen

Eddie Van Halen was not just a guitarist; he was a revolutionary figure who redefined the sound of rock guitar. Known for his inventive two-handed tapping, impeccable sense of rhythm, and use of harmonics, Eddie's approach made Van Halen’s music unique. His influence reaches across multiple genres, inspiring countless guitarists worldwide. “You Really Got Me” is a testament to Eddie's ability to blend technical mastery with pure rock energy, capturing listeners with his gritty riffs and unforgettable solos. Learning this song offers guitar players insight into the style of a true icon, helping them grasp Eddie’s fusion of precision and passion.

Breaking Down the Techniques in "You Really Got Me"

Power Chords

One of the primary techniques in “You Really Got Me” is the use of power chords. These chords drive the main riff, giving it a punchy, aggressive sound that has become a staple in rock music. Power chords are fundamental for rock guitarists, providing a foundation for countless classic songs. Mastering power chords will improve your rhythm guitar skills and add intensity to your playing style.

Palm Muting

Throughout the song, palm muting is employed to add dynamics and rhythm to the riff. By lightly resting your palm on the strings near the bridge, you can create a choppy, percussive sound that enhances the groove of the riff. Learning palm muting is crucial for any rock guitarist as it gives you control over the volume and texture of your chords, making your rhythm playing more dynamic.

Slides

Eddie uses slides to transition between chords and riffs, adding fluidity and expression to the piece. Slides allow for seamless movement across the fretboard, creating a smooth, continuous sound. Practicing slides will improve your ability to move between notes with precision and flair, enhancing the expressive quality of your playing.

String Bending

In the solo section, Eddie Van Halen incorporates string bending to bring out emotive notes and add a vocal-like quality to his leads. String bending involves pushing or pulling the string to raise the pitch, making your solos sound more expressive. This technique is key for rock and blues players, as it adds a layer of depth and soul to any solo.

Two-Handed Tapping

One of Eddie's signature techniques, two-handed tapping, is featured in the iconic solo of “You Really Got Me.” This technique involves using both hands to tap on the fretboard, producing fast, intricate note patterns. Two-handed tapping is an essential technique for creating speed and complexity in solos, making it a must-learn for guitarists looking to push the boundaries of their skill.

Harmonics

Harmonics are another standout technique in this track. They create bell-like tones that add a unique texture to the song. By lightly touching the string over specific frets, you can produce these high-pitched, clear tones. Harmonics add variety to your sound palette and are a great way to bring attention to specific parts of a song.

Alternate Picking

Alternate picking is used in the faster riff sections, helping Eddie maintain a rapid pace and sharp articulation. This technique involves alternating between downstrokes and upstrokes, which improves speed and efficiency in your picking hand. Alternate picking is fundamental for any guitarist aiming to play fast, accurate riffs and solos, making it a valuable skill across all genres.

Vibrato

Eddie’s vibrato technique is present throughout the song, adding sustain and expression to notes. Vibrato involves varying the pitch slightly by bending the string back and forth. Mastering vibrato allows you to add emotional depth to your playing, making notes sound fuller and more expressive. It’s a technique every guitarist should work on, as it’s widely applicable and instantly improves the feel of your solos.

Benefits of Learning These Techniques

Each technique featured in “You Really Got Me” has practical benefits for guitarists of all levels. Power chords and palm muting are essential for building a solid rhythm foundation, while slides and string bending improve your fretboard navigation and expressiveness. Techniques like two-handed tapping and harmonics introduce you to advanced playing styles, giving you new ways to approach solos. These techniques collectively enhance finger dexterity, precision, and control, all while building your confidence in tackling complex pieces. By mastering these elements, you not only learn to play a classic Van Halen song but also equip yourself with skills that translate into countless other songs and genres.

Guitar Techniques Used in This Lesson

• Vibrato
• Alternate Picking
• Harmonics
• Power Chords
• Palm Muting
• Two-Handed Tapping
• Slides
• String Bending

This lesson on “You Really Got Me” is packed with diverse techniques to elevate your guitar playing, giving you the tools to capture the spirit of Eddie Van Halen while refining your own style. Embrace these techniques to expand your skills and bring Eddie’s unforgettable energy to your playing.