Learn To Play Duane Eddy

Guitar Lesson Course Overview

The unmistakable sound of Duane Eddy's guitar has cemented him as a titan in the realm of rock and roll and country music. Known for his innovative twangy sound, a result of the unique mix of country, blues, and rockabilly influences, Eddy brought the instrumental rock to the forefront of music during the late '50s and early '60s. Our comprehensive course, "Learn To Play Duane Eddy," is a deep dive into the techniques and artistry of this legendary guitarist, focusing on five of his iconic tracks. This journey is not just about learning to play the songs; it's about understanding the music theory, scales, and unique articulation that make Eddy's sound distinctive. This course is taught by Steve Trovato.

Guitar Lessons Include:

Ghost Riders In The Sky 

Peter Gunn 

Cannonball 

Night Train 

Rebel Rouser

Lesson Performance Notes

Ghost Riders In The Sky

"Ghost Riders in the Sky" is an atmospheric piece with a story-telling vibe that hinges on the A minor scale, providing a haunting, almost mystical feel. The song's structure is relatively simple, allowing the focus to remain on the melody and, more importantly, the timbre and expressiveness of the guitar itself. One notable aspect of Eddy's solo in this track is his use of reverb to create an expansive soundstage, emulating the feeling of a vast, open range.

Peter Gunn

With "Peter Gunn," learners will delve into the mixolydian mode, a scale that defines the song's cool, suspenseful mood. The song is built on a catchy riff that exemplifies the power of simplicity in music. The primary focus here is on rhythm and timing, with a steady, driving beat that's paramount to the song's feel. Eddy's solo maintains this emphasis on rhythm, using staccato phrasing to add tension and release throughout the piece.

Cannonball

"Cannonball" is a more upbeat and aggressive track, and it's here that learners will explore the E major scale. The song features fast-paced strumming and requires tight control of dynamics to replicate Eddy's energy-packed performance. The solo section introduces rapid shifts in registers, demanding dexterity and precision in fret-hand movement.

Night Train

In "Night Train," Eddy brings forth a sultry, laid-back vibe, largely owing to his use of the blues scale. This track is a masterclass in expressiveness, with Eddy's slow, deliberate melodic choices speaking volumes. The solo here is less about technical prowess and more about emotional conveyance, utilizing long bends and slow vibrato to great effect.

Rebel Rouser

"Rebel Rouser" encapsulates the essence of rockabilly. This track is based around the E minor pentatonic scale, giving it a raw, rebellious feel. The song's rhythmic structure is complex, with syncopated patterns that require careful listening and practice. The solo in "Rebel Rouser" is quintessential Eddy, showcasing his signature bends and rapid-fire alternate picking.

Duane Eddy's Contribution

Duane Eddy's contributions to these songs, and the music industry as a whole, cannot be overstated. He was a pioneer in developing a guitar-centric sound, at a time when the focus was often on vocalists or entire bands. His deep, twangy guitar tones came from a mix of string-bending techniques, vibrato, and reverb, coupled with a unique playing style that often involved plucking the strings with his thumb or fingers instead of a pick. These techniques not only defined his sound but also had a profound influence on genres like rock, country, and blues.

Techniques Used in These Lessons

At the end of this comprehensive course, learners will have been exposed to a plethora of guitar techniques that are not only pivotal in playing these songs but are also critical skills for any aspiring guitarist. Below is a list of techniques used in these lessons, with links to our glossary for a more in-depth understanding:

• Vibrato
• Alternate Picking
• String Bending
• Slides
• Syncopated Rhythms
• Hammer-ons
• Pull-offs
• Double-stops
• Palm Muting
• Chord Progressions

Remember, the journey to mastering these songs is as much about understanding the theory and emotion behind them as it is about technical skill. Happy learning!