Learn to Play Bryan Adams

Guitar Lesson Course Overview
Bryan Adams, the iconic Canadian singer-songwriter, has left an indelible mark on the world of rock music. Known for his raspy vocals and heartfelt lyrics, the true magic lies in the guitar melodies that form the backbone of his timeless hits. Our product, “Learn To Play Bryan Adams,” offers guitar enthusiasts a chance to dive deep into Adams’ artistry, focusing on some of his most memorable songs. This comprehensive set of lessons by Jamie Humphries, breaks down the guitar components for each track, providing a nuanced understanding of the techniques and emotions behind Adams’ legendary anthems.

Tracks Include
• Summer Of 69
• Run To You
• Heaven
• Its Only Love
• Cant Stop This Thing We Started

Summer of ’69
Summer of ’69, one of Adams’ most iconic tracks, encapsulates the nostalgia of youth and the relentless passage of time, all wrapped up in powerful guitar chords and compelling melodies. The song is set in the key of D major and utilizes a mix of open chords and power chords, reflecting the simplicity and rawness of rock music from the era it recalls. The lead guitar parts employ expressive string bending within the pentatonic scale, adding a sense of longing and reminiscence to the piece. The solo section is particularly notable for its use of sustained notes that create tension and resolution, mirroring the song’s reflective theme.

Run To You
Run To You is a track where the guitar truly takes the center stage. The song, in the key of B minor, features arpeggiated chord progressions that give it a haunting quality, while the verses use a combination of palm muting and open chords to create a rhythmic, driving feel. The guitar solo is a masterpiece of melodic rock phrasing, utilizing the minor pentatonic scale with notable uses of vibrato to emphasize key emotional peaks in the solo. The dynamics in this piece are a key learning point, showcasing how playing style must adapt to the ebb and flow of a song’s intensity.

Heaven
Heaven is a stark contrast to many of Adams’ other hits, with its tender, emotive melodies and softer acoustic sound. The song uses basic chords, but the beauty lies in the arpeggiated patterns and the delicate interplay between the vocals and the guitar. It’s a study in dynamics and how restraint in playing can often produce the most emotionally impactful sounds. The lead guitar in the latter part of the song uses the major pentatonic scale to create uplifting, soulful licks that complement the hopeful lyrics.

It’s Only Love
In It’s Only Love, a duet with Tina Turner, the synergy between vocal grit and aggressive guitar strumming patterns stands out. This track is an excellent example of how syncopated rhythms can inject a raw, energetic feel into a song. The use of double stops during the guitar riff adds a layer of complexity and richness to the sound. The solo in this song is fiery and rhythmic, with a strong emphasis on bends and rapid alternate picking within the blues scale, showcasing a more aggressive side of rock guitar playing.

Can’t Stop This Thing We Started
Can’t Stop This Thing We Started has an upbeat tempo and an infectious rhythm, utilizing a mix of power chords and barre chords to create a full, resonant sound. The lead guitar work here is lively and playful, with a solo that employs the major scale to craft a series of memorable melodic hooks. Hammer-ons and pull-offs are used extensively for a smooth, legato sound in the solo, showcasing technical skill and precision.

Lead Guitarist Analysis
The lead guitarist in these songs, Keith Scott, has been a significant contributor to the unique sound in Bryan Adams’ music. His style provides a perfect foil to Adams’ vocals, delivering powerful riffs and emotive solos that capture the heart and soul of rock music. Scott’s playing is characterized by its melodic focus, technical prowess, and an innate sense of what serves the song best. Whether it’s the aggressive, rhythmic soloing in “It’s Only Love,” the haunting arpeggios in “Run To You,” or the tender, understated playing in “Heaven,” Scott’s versatility and musicality shine through. His understanding of scales and his ability to craft solos that both stand out and blend seamlessly with the song’s structure are key points of study for any aspiring guitarist.

Guitar Techniques Used
In these lessons, you’ll encounter a variety of guitar techniques fundamental to mastering the songs. Understanding and practicing these techniques will not only enhance your ability to play Bryan Adams’ tracks but will also improve your overall guitar skills.
Vibrato / Alternate Picking / Legato / Double Stops / String Bending / Palm Muting / Power Chords / Barre Chords / Hammer-ons / Pull-offs / Syncopated Rhythms / Arpeggiated Chord Progressions

Mastering these techniques will provide a solid foundation for any guitarist aspiring to learn the intricacies of rock music and the unique stylings of Bryan Adams and Keith Scott. Whether you’re a beginner or an experienced player, “Learn To Play Bryan Adams” offers valuable insights into professional guitar playing and the art of musical expression.