Whitesnake Guitar Tutorial: Learn To Play!

Hey guys! Ever wanted to shred like Vivian Campbell or Adrian Vandenberg? Or maybe you're just a huge fan of that classic 80s rock sound? Well, you've come to the right place! This Whitesnake guitar tutorial is your one-stop-shop for learning how to play some of the band's most iconic riffs and solos. We'll break down everything from the gear you need to the techniques you'll use, so grab your guitar, plug in, and let's get started!

Getting Started with Whitesnake's Guitar Sound

Before we dive into specific songs, let's talk about what makes Whitesnake's guitar sound so recognizable. The band has had some amazing guitarists grace their lineup over the years, each bringing their own unique flavor to the mix. However, there are some common threads that run through their music. To nail the Whitesnake sound, you'll need to be familiar with a few essential elements. It's not just about playing the right notes; it's about capturing the feel and the vibe of the music. Whitesnake's guitarists often use a combination of techniques, including blues-inspired licks, hard rock riffs, and soaring solos. Think of players like Jimmy Page, Jeff Beck, and even a touch of Jimi Hendrix, blended with a distinctly 80s rock edge. This blend of influences creates a sound that is both familiar and unique, powerful and melodic. Learning to emulate this sound involves understanding the scales and modes they favored, the types of amplifiers and effects they used, and the specific techniques they employed. Practice, experimentation, and a good ear are key to unlocking the secrets of the Whitesnake guitar sound. Listen closely to their albums, paying attention to the nuances of each guitarist's playing style, and try to incorporate those elements into your own playing. With dedication and the right approach, you'll be well on your way to mastering the art of Whitesnake-style guitar playing.

Gear Up: Guitars, Amps, and Effects

So, what kind of gear do you need to sound like you're rocking out with Whitesnake? First off, guitars! Think humbucker pickups for that thick, crunchy tone. A Les Paul or a Superstrat-style guitar is a great place to start. Many Whitesnake guitarists have favored these types of guitars for their versatility and powerful sound. Next up, amps. A good tube amp is essential for getting that warm, overdriven tone that's characteristic of Whitesnake's music. Brands like Marshall, Fender, and Mesa/Boogie are all popular choices. Experiment with different amp settings to find the sweet spot that works for you. Finally, let's talk effects. A wah pedal is a must-have for those expressive solos, and a delay pedal can add depth and atmosphere to your playing. A chorus pedal can also be used to create a lush, 80s-inspired sound. Don't be afraid to experiment with different combinations of effects to find your own signature sound. Remember, gear is just a tool – the most important thing is to develop your own style and technique. However, having the right equipment can certainly help you get closer to that classic Whitesnake sound. Consider investing in quality instruments and effects that will inspire you to play and practice more. With the right gear and a dedication to learning, you'll be well on your way to capturing the essence of Whitesnake's iconic guitar sound.

Essential Techniques: Bending, Vibrato, and More

Alright, let's talk techniques! String bending is HUGE in Whitesnake's music. You gotta be able to bend those notes with feeling and precision. Practice bending to the correct pitch – use a tuner if you need to! Another essential technique is vibrato. There are many types of vibrato, so experiment to see what sounds best to you. It's what gives your notes that singing quality. Legato, which is connecting notes smoothly, is also very important. This includes hammer-ons and pull-offs. These techniques allow you to play fast and fluid lines without picking every note. Slides are also a common technique. Sliding up or down the neck can add a cool, bluesy feel to your playing. Practice sliding smoothly and accurately to create a seamless transition between notes. Finally, don't forget about palm muting. This technique involves resting the side of your palm on the strings near the bridge to create a muted, percussive sound. Palm muting is often used in rhythm playing to add a sense of aggression and power to the music. By mastering these essential techniques, you'll be well-equipped to tackle even the most challenging Whitesnake guitar parts. Remember to practice regularly and focus on developing a strong foundation in each technique. With dedication and patience, you'll be able to incorporate these techniques into your own playing and create your own unique sound.

Breaking Down Iconic Whitesnake Songs

Now for the fun part: learning some actual Whitesnake songs! We'll start with some easier ones and then move on to more challenging material. Remember to take your time, practice slowly, and focus on accuracy. It's better to play something perfectly at a slow tempo than to butcher it at full speed. Listen to the original recordings carefully and pay attention to the nuances of each guitarist's playing. Try to emulate their phrasing, dynamics, and tone. With enough practice and dedication, you'll be able to play these iconic Whitesnake songs with confidence and style.

"Here I Go Again": The Classic Anthem

"Here I Go Again" is arguably Whitesnake's most famous song, and it's a great one to learn for a few reasons. It has a memorable main riff that's not too difficult to play, making it accessible for intermediate guitarists. The solo, while still challenging, is relatively straightforward and features classic rock techniques like bending and vibrato. It's also a song that everyone knows, so you'll be able to impress your friends with your newfound skills. The main riff is based around power chords and a simple melody. Pay attention to the rhythm and timing, as that's what gives the riff its energy and drive. The solo is a bit more challenging, but it's a great opportunity to practice your bending and vibrato techniques. Start by learning the solo slowly and gradually increase the tempo as you become more comfortable with the notes. Don't be afraid to break the solo down into smaller sections and practice each section separately. With enough practice, you'll be able to nail the solo and impress everyone with your rendition of this classic Whitesnake anthem. Remember to listen to the original recording carefully and try to emulate the phrasing and dynamics of the original guitarist. By doing so, you'll be able to capture the essence of the song and make it your own.

"Still of the Night": A Bluesy Rocker

"Still of the Night" is a bit more challenging, but it's worth the effort. This song showcases Whitesnake's heavier side, with powerful riffs and a blistering solo. It's a great example of how the band blends blues and hard rock influences. The main riff is based around a descending chromatic scale, which gives it a dark and ominous feel. The solo is full of fast licks, string skipping, and tapping, making it a real workout for your fingers. To tackle this song, start by learning the main riff slowly and accurately. Pay attention to the timing and dynamics, as that's what gives the riff its power and impact. The solo is much more challenging, so break it down into smaller sections and practice each section separately. Focus on developing your speed and accuracy, and don't be afraid to use a metronome to help you stay in time. With enough practice and dedication, you'll be able to master this challenging song and add it to your repertoire. Remember to listen to the original recording carefully and try to emulate the phrasing and dynamics of the original guitarist. By doing so, you'll be able to capture the essence of the song and make it your own. "Still of the Night" is a great song to learn if you want to challenge yourself and expand your guitar playing skills.

"Is This Love": The Power Ballad

For something a little different, let's look at "Is This Love." This power ballad features a beautiful, melodic guitar solo that's perfect for practicing your phrasing and dynamics. It's a great example of how Whitesnake can blend heavy rock with heartfelt emotion. The solo is based around a simple melody, but it's the phrasing and dynamics that make it so special. Pay attention to the way the guitarist bends and vibratos the notes, and try to emulate that in your own playing. The solo also features some nice arpeggios and legato lines, which are great for developing your technique. To tackle this song, start by learning the main melody and chords. Once you have that down, start working on the solo. Break it down into smaller sections and practice each section separately. Focus on developing your phrasing and dynamics, and don't be afraid to experiment with different approaches. With enough practice and dedication, you'll be able to master this beautiful solo and add it to your repertoire. Remember to listen to the original recording carefully and try to emulate the phrasing and dynamics of the original guitarist. By doing so, you'll be able to capture the essence of the song and make it your own. "Is This Love" is a great song to learn if you want to develop your melodic playing and emotional expression on the guitar.

Keep Rocking!

So there you have it! A Whitesnake guitar tutorial to get you started on your journey to rocking like a true 80s guitar hero. Remember to practice regularly, be patient with yourself, and most importantly, have fun! Keep listening to Whitesnake, keep learning, and keep shredding! And who knows, maybe one day you'll be up on stage with David Coverdale himself! Now go forth and rock!