Guitar Music Theory
- Episodes
- 192
- Released
- monthly
- Latest episode
- Oct 24, 2026
About the podcast
This podcast features free audio guitar lessons taught by Desi Serna, author of Fretboard Theory and Guitar Theory For Dummies. Learn how scales, chords, progressions, modes, and more get applied to the fretboard and familiar songs. Hear how to best get your playing skills in order. Begin to improvise and compose. Understand why your favorite songs sound so good. ➝ What do you specifically need to do in order to play guitar better? Visit the GuitarMusicTheory.com website to get FREE custom video instruction calibrated to your current level. Discover how to progressively play and sound better—today, in as little as 33 minutes!
Episodes 192
Ep191 "Backwater" by Meat Puppets – How Does This Song Work?
In this episode of the Guitar Music Theory podcast, I break down the 1994 alternative rock hit "Backwater" by Meat Puppets. Discover how the song combines major and minor harmony, borrowed chords, and unusual …
Show notes
In this episode of the Guitar Music Theory podcast, I break down the 1994 alternative rock hit "Backwater" by Meat Puppets. Discover how the song combines major and minor harmony, borrowed chords, and unusual chord progressions to create its distinctive sound. You'll also learn how the lead guitar uses pentatonic scales, string bends, and chord tones to follow the changing harmony. Plus, a look at the guitar tones, rhythm techniques, and surprising twists that make this song so interesting.
Free Video Course For free guitar instruction tailored to your playing level, visit GuitarMusicTheory.com.
Ep190 Q&A New Fretboard Theory Covers Pentatonic Scales Calluses & Picking
In episode 190 of the Guitar Music Theory podcast, I share an update on my Fretboard Theory books, including the newly redesigned covers and updated Amazon listings. I also look back at how the books got …
Show notes
In episode 190 of the Guitar Music Theory podcast, I share an update on my Fretboard Theory books, including the newly redesigned covers and updated Amazon listings. I also look back at how the books got started, how they developed over the years, and the role they played in the growth of Guitar Music Theory.
Then I answer listener questions about pentatonic scales, scale fingerings, building calluses, and picking technique.
Topics include:
• What scales can you play over a 1-6-5-4 chord progression in E major?
• What's the relationship between E major pentatonic and C# minor pentatonic?
• How often should you practice to build and maintain calluses without tearing up your fingertips?
• Do pentatonic scale fingerings really matter?
• Why your fingerings change when you start playing actual riffs and solos.
• Should an experienced fingerstyle guitarist learn to use a flatpick for lead guitar?
• When does it make sense to work specifically on picking mechanics?
• How can you adapt your guitar playing when dealing with de Quervain's tenosynovitis or other hand and wrist limitations?
FREE CUSTOM VIDEO COURSE 🎸 What do you SPECIFICALLY need to do to play guitar better? Visit the website, answer the question about your playing, and get FREE custom video instruction calibrated to your current level. https://www.GuitarMusicTheory.com
NEW FRETBOARD THEORY BOOK COVERS Check out the newly redesigned Fretboard Theory books on Amazon: https://www.amazon.com/Fretboard-Theory-Volumes-Combined-progressions/dp/1542403227/
Ep189 How I Prepared for a 40-Song Cover Band Gig
In this episode, I take you behind the scenes of a recent performance with Nashville-based cover band Party of 5. I share how I prepared for a 40-song setlist, what the band expected from me, how I organized …
Show notes
In this episode, I take you behind the scenes of a recent performance with Nashville-based cover band Party of 5. I share how I prepared for a 40-song setlist, what the band expected from me, how I organized and learned the music, the guitar gear and live rig I used, and what it was like performing the show.
Along the way, I discuss some of the songs and guitar parts I found especially fun or challenging, a few surprises from the gig, and lessons that can help any guitarist become a more prepared, versatile musician.
Whether you're interested in playing live, joining a cover band, or simply learning songs more efficiently, you'll pick up practical tips you can apply to your own guitar playing.
In this episode:
How I prepared for a 40-song cover band gig
Learning a large setlist efficiently
Organizing charts and setlists for live performance
My guitar, Kemper, and live rig
Songs that were especially fun or challenging to learn
What surprised me about the performance
Lessons every guitarist can take away from the experience
🎸 Ready to make serious progress on guitar?
My annual Fall Guitar Intensive is opening soon. It's a 12-week coaching program designed for hobby guitarists who love classic rock, blues, country, and related styles and are ready to stop spinning their wheels. If you're looking for structure, accountability, expert guidance, and a supportive community, be sure to sign up for my email list so you don't miss the announcement.
Visit GuitarMusicTheory.com and click Subscribe at the top of the page, or enroll in one of the free video courses featured on the home page.
Ep188 The Genius Behind New Kid in Town with Scott Sheriff
In this episode of the Guitar Music Theory Podcast, Carrie Underwood keyboardist Scott Sheriff returns to help me break down one of the Eagles' most beloved songs, "New Kid in Town." Together, we explore the …
Show notes
In this episode of the Guitar Music Theory Podcast, Carrie Underwood keyboardist Scott Sheriff returns to help me break down one of the Eagles' most beloved songs, "New Kid in Town."
Together, we explore the key, chord changes, harmony, tones, and techniques that make this classic recording so memorable. From sophisticated chord changes and beautiful voice leading to tasteful guitar fills and layered vocal harmonies, this song is a masterclass in musical craftsmanship.
Scott previously joined me on: • Ep147 Scott Sheriff - Keyboardist For Carrie Underwood and Huey Lewis Tribute • Ep156 Biggest Part of Me - How Does This Song Work? - Scott Sheriff
FREE GUITAR TRAINING Visit GuitarMusicTheory.com to enroll in a free video course calibratd to your current level.
Ep187 The Art of Recording Guitar Solos with Jason Wyatt Kuhn
Episode 187 of the Guitar Music Theory podcast features the return of Nashville music producer Jason Wyatt Kuhn from We The People Music. Jason first appeared on Episode 173, "From Demo to Radio – Inside Music …
Show notes
Episode 187 of the Guitar Music Theory podcast features the return of Nashville music producer Jason Wyatt Kuhn from We The People Music.
Jason first appeared on Episode 173, "From Demo to Radio – Inside Music Production," where we discussed songwriting, studio production, and the process of turning musical ideas into professional recordings. Since then, one of my students, Charles Vincent, has worked with Jason and his team to record several original songs, and I was invited to contribute lead guitar solos to two tracks: "Pretty Little Thing" and "The Way She Moves."
In this episode, Jason and I discuss the recording and production process behind these songs, from rough demos and arrangement ideas to polished final mixes. We also listen to sections of the tracks and break down my guitar solo approach from both a theoretical and artistic perspective, including melodic phrasing, chord tone targeting, emotional pacing, and building solos that support the overall song.
If you've ever wondered how original songs come together in the studio, how professional music production works, or how to craft memorable guitar solos that truly serve the music, this episode gives you an inside look at the creative process.
Jason Wyatt Kuhn and his team are also available for hire, whether you're a hobbyist looking to professionally record your music or an artist pursuing a serious music career. If you have song ideas, demos, riffs, or unfinished material you'd like developed into polished recordings, visit: https://www.wethepeople.music/
Get free guitar training customized to your skill level and musical interests at: https://www.GuitarMusicTheory.com
Ep186 Lessons from the Studio with Ryan Jones
In this episode, I sit down with my friend and professional guitarist Ryan Jones. Ryan shares his journey from Fort Wayne, Indiana to studying music in California, connecting with Christian artist Tommy Walker …
Show notes
In this episode, I sit down with my friend and professional guitarist Ryan Jones.
Ryan shares his journey from Fort Wayne, Indiana to studying music in California, connecting with Christian artist Tommy Walker, and eventually touring and recording at a professional level.
We talk about what it's really like to work as a guitarist on the road and in the studio, including Ryan's move to Nashville in 2014, where he built a career doing session work and collaborating with producer and drummer Scott Williamson.
Then everything changed.
When COVID hit, the music industry ground to a halt overnight. Ryan shares how that disruption forced him to rethink his path, leading him to develop new skills as a software developer and eventually land a role at Sweetwater—bringing him full circle back to his hometown.
Along the way, we also dig into:
• What the recording process is really like for working guitarists • Amp tones and how pros think about sound • Real amps vs. modelers—what actually matters • How to adapt when your music career takes an unexpected turn
This is an honest, behind-the-scenes look at the life of a working guitarist—and what it takes to keep moving forward when things don't go as planned.
Summer Jams Zoom Class (2026)https://desiserna.as.me/schedule.php
Free Video Course What do you SPECIFICALLY need to do to play guitar better? Answer the questions about your playing at GuitarMusicTheory.com and get FREE custom video instruction calibrated to your current level.
Ep185 Q&A 6 Chords – PRS Myles Kennedy Signature Model Guitar
In episode 185 of the Guitar Music Theory podcast, Desi Serna answers listener questions and breaks down how 6 chords are built, why the 5th is sometimes omitted, and examples of their use in familiar songs …
Show notes
In episode 185 of the Guitar Music Theory podcast, Desi Serna answers listener questions and breaks down how 6 chords are built, why the 5th is sometimes omitted, and examples of their use in familiar songs.
Desi also plays and discusses the PRS Myles Kennedy Signature model guitar, highlighting its features and tonal range.
If you want to expand your chord vocabulary and better understand how chords function in real songs, this episode will help you connect the dots.
🎸 Get your FREE guitar video course https://www.GuitarMusicTheory.com
📕 Get your copy of Lead Guitar Unlocked: Master Expressive Soloing With the Pentatonic Scale https://www.amazon.com/Lead-Guitar-Unlocked-Expressive-Pentatonic/dp/B0FY4XH4TP
Ep184 Pentatonic Pattern 1 – The Foundation of All Great Guitar Solos
In episode 184 of the Guitar Music Theory podcast, Desi Serna breaks down the most important scale shape on the guitar: Pentatonic Pattern 1. This versatile pattern forms the foundation of countless riffs …
Show notes
In episode 184 of the Guitar Music Theory podcast, Desi Serna breaks down the most important scale shape on the guitar: Pentatonic Pattern 1. This versatile pattern forms the foundation of countless riffs, licks, and solos across blues, rock, and country.
Desi explains how the pattern is constructed, why it's commonly labeled "Pattern 1," how it connects to the CAGED system, and how guitarists actually use it in real music. Along the way, you'll hear familiar song examples that demonstrate how this simple shape becomes the backbone of expressive lead guitar playing.
LEAD GUITAR UNLOCKED This lesson is based on Chapter 2 of Desi's book Lead Guitar Unlocked: Master Expressive Soloing With the Pentatonic Scale. Get your copy here: https://www.amazon.com/Lead-Guitar-Unlocked-Expressive-Pentatonic/dp/B0FY4XH4TP
FREE VIDEO COURSE If you're not sure what you should practice next, visit Desi's website and receive free custom video instruction tailored to your current skill level: https://www.GuitarMusicTheory.com
BEST GUITAR TAB WEBSITE https://www.ultimate-guitar.com/
Ep183 What Is the Pentatonic Scale and Why Every Guitarist Should Master It
The pentatonic scale is one of the most essential tools in a guitarist's toolkit. In this episode, we break down what the pentatonic scale is, why it shows up in so many styles of music, and why it sounds so …
Show notes
The pentatonic scale is one of the most essential tools in a guitarist's toolkit. In this episode, we break down what the pentatonic scale is, why it shows up in so many styles of music, and why it sounds so natural on the guitar. From Asian music to African drumming and Native American flute traditions, and then from blues and rock to country, pop, funk, and even metal, this simple five-note scale forms the foundation of countless riffs, solos, melodies, and hooks. If you want to improvise with confidence and move freely across the fretboard, mastering the pentatonic scale is a must.
Lead Guitar Unlocked Book https://www.amazon.com/Lead-Guitar-Unlocked-Expressive-Pentatonic/dp/B0FY4XH4TP
Free Video Course https://www.GuitarMusicTheory.com
Ep182 From Boston to Belmont – Mike Valeras on Guitar Education and Finding Your Lane
In episode 182 of the Guitar Music Theory Podcast, I sit down with Mike Valeras, an adjunct guitar instructor at Belmont University here in Nashville, where he teaches commercial music and improvisation. Mike …
Show notes
In episode 182 of the Guitar Music Theory Podcast, I sit down with Mike Valeras, an adjunct guitar instructor at Belmont University here in Nashville, where he teaches commercial music and improvisation. Mike shares his guitar learning journey, early band experiences, and his formal music education, including earning both a music education degree and a master's degree. We talk about how he made the move from Boston to Nashville and ultimately landed his teaching position at Belmont. Growing up, Huey Lewis and the News was his favorite band, and today Mike is one of the guitarists in The Heart of Rock and Roll, the Huey Lewis and the News tribute band that I occasionally play with as well. It's a great conversation about musicianship, education, and carving out a career in music.
Free Video CourseAnswer the question on my website to get a free video course calibrated to your current level. https://www.GuitarMusicTheory.com
New Book: Lead Guitar Unlocked Master Expressive Soloing With the Pentatonic Scale. From basic patterns to pro-level phrasing—learn to play licks that speak and solos that sing. https://www.amazon.com/Lead-Guitar-Unlocked-Expressive-Pentatonic/dp/B0FY4XH4TP
"Migus fa Dingus" by Mike Valeras Listen to Mike's music on Spotify. https://open.spotify.com/track/0EPzrL1s8Fc1V3OFr6nqYn?si=e1598c276fe54b38
Ep181 Top Hits of 2025 with Lila
In this episode of the Guitar Music Theory podcast, Desi is joined by his daughter Lila to look back at some of the biggest pop hits of 2025. Together, they explore why these songs connect so strongly with …
Show notes
In this episode of the Guitar Music Theory podcast, Desi is joined by his daughter Lila to look back at some of the biggest pop hits of 2025.
Together, they explore why these songs connect so strongly with listeners and what guitarists can learn from them. From chord progressions and melodies to groove, phrasing, and feel, this conversation pulls musical ideas out of modern pop songs and translates them into concepts you can apply to guitar.
Even if pop is not your main genre, these songs offer valuable lessons in simplicity, songwriting, and musical impact. Plus, this episode features a fun and honest father-daughter discussion that gives a fresh perspective on today's music.
Whether you are curious about current pop trends or looking for new inspiration for your guitar playing, this episode offers insight, analysis, and plenty of takeaways.
Email Desi https://www.guitarmusictheory.com/contact/
Free Video Course https://www.GuitarMusicTheory.com
New Book: Lead Guitar Unlocked: Master Expressive Soloing With the Pentatonic Scale https://www.amazon.com/Lead-Guitar-Unlocked-Expressive-Pentatonic/dp/B0FY4XH4TP
Backing Tracks https://www.karaoke-version.com/
Ep180 Q&A Song Tempos - Warm-Ups - Ear Training - Modes - Chord Extensions & More
In this Q&A episode, Desi answers listener questions on a wide range of guitar topics—including how to choose the right song tempo, whether you need warm-ups, practical ear-training methods, when to use modes …
Show notes
In this Q&A episode, Desi answers listener questions on a wide range of guitar topics—including how to choose the right song tempo, whether you need warm-ups, practical ear-training methods, when to use modes, and how chord extensions actually work. You'll also hear tips on improvisation, fretboard navigation, and developing better musical instincts.
If you're looking to deepen your understanding of both the technical and musical sides of guitar, this episode is packed with clear explanations and real-world examples to help you grow as a player.
FREE VIDEO COURSE https://www.GuitarMusicTheory.com
NEW BOOK: Lead Guitar Unlocked: Master Expressive Soloing With the Pentatonic Scale https://www.amazon.com/Lead-Guitar-Unlocked-Expressive-Pentatonic/dp/B0FY4XH4TP
Ep179 Fixing the Worst Guitar Solo – Heat of the Moment by Asia (feat. Matt Reviere & Jon "HW" Sullivan)
In this episode, Desi Serna is joined by friends and fellow guitarists Matt Reviere and Jon "HW" Sullivan for a lively discussion about one of the most debated solos of the 1980s — Steve Howe's guitar solo in …
Show notes
In this episode, Desi Serna is joined by friends and fellow guitarists Matt Reviere and Jon "HW" Sullivan for a lively discussion about one of the most debated solos of the 1980s — Steve Howe's guitar solo in "Heat of the Moment" by Asia.
The trio breaks down why the solo doesn't quite hit the mark, exploring its phrasing, tone, and fit within the song. Along the way, they take a deep dive into Steve Howe's legendary work with Yes, examining how such a brilliant player could deliver something that feels so out of place.
Then things get creative — each guitarist reveals and plays a replacement solo they composed themselves, reimagining what the song could sound like with a stronger melodic statement.
It's equal parts music theory, guitar nerdery, and good humor between three friends who love to analyze and play great guitar music.
🎧 Listen to Our SolosJon "HW": Heat of the Moment Solo – HW
🎵 Get the Backing Track: Asia – "Heat of the Moment" Guitar Backing Track (Karaoke-Version.com)
🎚️ Tone Used: Inspired by the 80s – Kemper Pack by Tone Junkie
🎸 Free Custom Video Course: https://www.GuitarMusicTheory.com
📘 Lead Guitar Unlocked: Master Expressive Soloing With the Pentatonic Scale: https://www.amazon.com/Lead-Guitar-Unlocked-Expressive-Pentatonic/dp/B0FY4XH4TP
Ep178 Tribute to Ace Frehley – Favorite Guitar Solos
In episode 178 of the Guitar Music Theory Podcast, I pay tribute to Kiss lead guitarist Ace Frehley with some of my favorite guitar solos he recorded. Free Video Course https://www.GuitarMusicTheory.com Huey …
Show notes
In episode 178 of the Guitar Music Theory Podcast, I pay tribute to Kiss lead guitarist Ace Frehley with some of my favorite guitar solos he recorded.
Free Video Course https://www.GuitarMusicTheory.com
Huey Tribute Come see me play live on 11/21/2025 https://cainarts.org/event/heart-of-rock-roll-the-authentic-tribute-to-huey-lewis-the-news/cain-center-for-the-arts/north-carolina/
Ace Frehley Guitar Solos ⚡️ Spotify Playlist https://open.spotify.com/playlist/1ZfV8unmk7W4Y5F4mKbw78?si=48235bd7b3244c51
Backing track courtesy of Karaoke Version https://www.karaoke-version.com/
Ep177 Man on the Silver Mountain – How Does This Song Work?
In this episode, I break down the 1975 Rainbow classic featuring Ritchie Blackmore and Ronnie James Dio. I take you through the signature opening riff, the shifting minor key changes, the alternate-picked …
Show notes
In this episode, I break down the 1975 Rainbow classic featuring Ritchie Blackmore and Ronnie James Dio. I take you through the signature opening riff, the shifting minor key changes, the alternate-picked arpeggios, and the fiery solo that defines the track. I also talk about Blackmore's Strat/Marshall setup and show you how studying this song can improve your technique, deepen your understanding of music theory, and boost your confidence as a guitarist.
Free Custom Video Course
Be sure to visit https://www.GuitarMusicTheory.com and answer the question about your playing. I'll send you a free custom video course with a clear, step-by-step plan to help you reach your guitar goals and start sounding like the player you've always wanted to be.
Ep176 How to Build a Pro Tribute Band- Inside The Heart of Rock and Roll with Roger and Tony Langdon
In episode 176 of the Guitar Music Theory podcast, I talk with Roger and Tony Langdon, founders of The Heart of Rock and Roll—America's #1 Huey Lewis tribute band. We dive into what it takes to run a high-level …
Show notes
In episode 176 of the Guitar Music Theory podcast, I talk with Roger and Tony Langdon, founders of The Heart of Rock and Roll—America's #1 Huey Lewis tribute band. We dive into what it takes to run a high-level tribute act, including building a band, nailing the sound, preparing for gigs, and delivering a polished live show.
The Heart of Rock and Roll Learn more about the band at https://hueytribute.com/
Free Guitar Video Course Enroll in a free video course at https://www.GuitarMusicTheory.com and get custom instruction based on your current playing level.
Ep175 Q&A Thumb Chords - Song Memory - Rhythm Tips - and Foo Fighters Fretboard Tricks
In episode 175 of the Guitar Music Theory podcast, I answer listener emails about: Using your thumb to fret the 6th string in barre chords and possible workarounds How to improve your rhythm and memorize songs …
Show notes
In episode 175 of the Guitar Music Theory podcast, I answer listener emails about:
- Using your thumb to fret the 6th string in barre chords and possible workarounds
- How to improve your rhythm and memorize songs more effectively
- The G form barre chord and how it's used in modern playing
- A theory-based analysis of Foo Fighters' use of pedal tones in chord progressions
- Why sus4 and minor 6 chords don't naturally occur in certain scale degrees
- Why guitarists sometimes play notes like F# over A minor—mixing scales in blues-based rock
Plus, I mention the JamZone app and how it can help you practice and play along with real songs.
Zoom Classes https://www.guitarmusictheory.com/zoom/
Quiz and Free Video Course https://www.GuitarMusicTheory.com
Ep174 Recreating Iconic 80s Tones For Kemper and Helix with Matt Reviere
In episode 174 of the Guitar Music Theory podcast, I chat with Carrie Underwood guitarist Matt Reviere about recreating classic 80s guitar tones for the Kemper Profiling Amplifier and Line 6 Helix using the new …
Show notes
In episode 174 of the Guitar Music Theory podcast, I chat with Carrie Underwood guitarist Matt Reviere about recreating classic 80s guitar tones for the Kemper Profiling Amplifier and Line 6 Helix using the new Inspired by the 80s pack from Tone Junkie. We discuss his workflow for analyzing songs, dialing in tones, and jamming on iconic riffs from artists like Dire Straits, The Police, Bon Jovi, and more.
🎛️ Check out the Tone Junkie pack here: tonejunkiestore.com/inspiredby/p/inspired-by-the-80s-kemper
🎸 Get started with a free video course tailored to your current level at GuitarMusicTheory.com
Ep173 From Demo to Radio - Inside Music Production with Jason Wyatt Kuhn
In episode 173 of the Guitar Music Theory podcast, I sit down with Nashville music producer Jason Wyatt Kuhn to talk about the art of recording and producing music. Jason shares his journey from singer and …
Show notes
In episode 173 of the Guitar Music Theory podcast, I sit down with Nashville music producer Jason Wyatt Kuhn to talk about the art of recording and producing music. Jason shares his journey from singer and songwriter to becoming a sought-after producer helping both aspiring artists and hobbyist songwriters bring their music to life. We discuss what it's like working in the studio, how the production process unfolds, and the critical role a producer plays in shaping a song's final sound. You'll even hear before-and-after audio examples that reveal the dramatic transformation from raw work tape to polished master.
Jason Wyatt Kuhn - We the People Music https://wethepeople.music/
Lexi Lew https://linktr.ee/lexilewmusic
Brooks Herring https://brooksherringmusic.com/
FREE GUITAR VIDEO COURSE 🎸 What do you SPECIFICALLY need to do to play guitar better? Answer the questions about your playing at https://www.GuitarMusicTheory.com and get FREE custom video instruction calibrated to your current level.
00:00 "Recording Insights with Jason Kuhn"
05:30 "Jason Wyatt's Musical Journey"
12:51 "We the People" Music Company
16:49 Finding Success in Music Industry
22:28 Musician's Dilemma: Confidence and Choices
28:35 From Rough Tapes to Studio Pros
35:37 80s Fan Reflects on Nirvana Shift
39:12 "Creating Musical Hooks"
43:51 Creative Process in Songmaking
54:34 Pre-Production Essentials Explained
58:54 Musical Collaboration Process
01:04:15 First Nashville Recording Session Experience
01:05:49 Impressive On-the-Spot Musicianship
01:16:13 Post-Production Sound Editing
01:19:32 Episode 173 Wrap-Up
Ep172 Q&A playing style - physical limitations - key changes - bar chord techniques - music theory exercises - slowing down music
In episode 172 of the Guitar Music Theory podcast, I answer listener questions about playing styles, overcoming physical limitations, key changes in songs, barre chord techniques, music theory exercises …
Show notes
In episode 172 of the Guitar Music Theory podcast, I answer listener questions about playing styles, overcoming physical limitations, key changes in songs, barre chord techniques, music theory exercises, slowing down music, and more.
Riff Rockers Zoom class details: https://www.guitarmusictheory.com/riff-rockers-zoom-class/
Enroll in a free video course and join the email list: https://www.GuitarMusicTheory.com
Ep171 Q&A Practice Plan-Joe-Bonamassa Rhythm-Take On Me Chords-Numbering Modes-G Chord Fingerings-Best Practice Amp
In episode 171 of the Guitar Music Theory podcast, I answer listener questions on a variety of guitar topics, including: 🎸 Assessing your guitar practice plan🎸 Joe Bonamassa's rhythm guitar playing 🎸 Breaking …
Show notes
In episode 171 of the Guitar Music Theory podcast, I answer listener questions on a variety of guitar topics, including:
🎸 Assessing your guitar practice plan🎸 Joe Bonamassa's rhythm guitar playing 🎸 Breaking down the key to "Take on Me" by A-ha 🎸 Understanding mode numbering 🎸 Different ways to finger a G chord and which one is best for you 🎸 Choosing the best guitar practice amp for your needs
Tune in to get practical guitar advice, improve your playing, and gain new insights into music theory and technique!
🔗 Enroll in a FREE video course at GuitarMusicTheory.com 🎧 Listen now and don't forget to subscribe!
Ep170 Top Hits of 2024 with Lila
In episode 170 of the Guitar Music Theory audio podcast, I look back at some of the top songs from 2024 with a very special guest, my 12-year-old daughter, Lila! 🎸 What do you SPECIFICALLY need to do to play …
Show notes
In episode 170 of the Guitar Music Theory audio podcast, I look back at some of the top songs from 2024 with a very special guest, my 12-year-old daughter, Lila!
🎸 What do you SPECIFICALLY need to do to play guitar better? Answer the questions about your playing at https://www.GuitarMusicTheory.com and get FREE custom video instruction calibrated to your current level.
Ep169 Good Christmas Songs to Learn
In episode 169 of the Guitar Music Theory podcast, I review some Christmas song guitar lessons I've previously posted on YouTube. These lessons feature great Christmas songs to learn, and I'll break down the …
Show notes
In episode 169 of the Guitar Music Theory podcast, I review some Christmas song guitar lessons I've previously posted on YouTube. These lessons feature great Christmas songs to learn, and I'll break down the nuggets of music theory wisdom each one provides. Topics include passing chords, chord melody, playing in sixths, and more.
Join the email list by subscribing at the https://www.GuitarMusicTheory.com website.
Ep168 Q&A - New Coaching Program - Bass Playing - Playing with Confidence - Running with the Devil - 3/4 vs 6/8 - Cover Band Setlist
In episode 168 of the Guitar Music Theory podcast, I announce my new coaching program and answer listener questions about bass playing, playing with confidence, the difference between 3/4 and 6/8 time …
Show notes
In episode 168 of the Guitar Music Theory podcast, I announce my new coaching program and answer listener questions about bass playing, playing with confidence, the difference between 3/4 and 6/8 time signatures, my old cover band setlist, and the song "Runnin' with the Devil" by Van Halen.
Are you ready to invest in a structured coaching program to take your guitar playing to the next level? Fill out the contact form on my website and share your music goals with me: https://www.guitarmusictheory.com/contact/
Ep167 Learning "It Hit Me Like a Hammer" - PRS SE NF3
In episode 167 of the Guitar Music Theory podcast, I guide you through my process of learning songs, using "It Hit Me Like a Hammer" by Huey Lewis and The News as an example. This track showcases chunky '80s …
Show notes
In episode 167 of the Guitar Music Theory podcast, I guide you through my process of learning songs, using "It Hit Me Like a Hammer" by Huey Lewis and The News as an example. This track showcases chunky '80s rock power chords and a bluesy minor pentatonic guitar solo. I play it on my new PRS SE NF3 guitar, using a profile of a Mesa Boogie Mark 3 amp.
🎸 What do you SPECIFICALLY need to do to play guitar better? Answer the questions about your playing at https://www.GuitarMusicTheory.com and get FREE custom video instruction calibrated to your current level.
Ep166 Q&A Rhythm and Timing - Horizontal Pentatonic Patterns - Bass Note Selection - Violin Etude 2
In episode 166 of the Guitar Music Theory podcast, I answer listener questions about rhythm and timing, playing horizontal pentatonic patterns, selecting good bass notes, and more. I also recap my recent gigs …
Show notes
In episode 166 of the Guitar Music Theory podcast, I answer listener questions about rhythm and timing, playing horizontal pentatonic patterns, selecting good bass notes, and more. I also recap my recent gigs and discuss how I prepare for performances.
Ep165 Preparing For Huey Lewis Tribute Band Gig
In episode 165 of the Guitar Music Theory podcast, I prepare to play upcoming gigs with the Huey Lewis and The News tribute band, The Heart of Rock and Roll. I walk you through the process I go through when I'm …
Show notes
In episode 165 of the Guitar Music Theory podcast, I prepare to play upcoming gigs with the Huey Lewis and The News tribute band, The Heart of Rock and Roll. I walk you through the process I go through when I'm reviewing for a show and discuss the songs I'll be performing.
🎸 What do you SPECIFICALLY need to do to play guitar better? Answer the questions about your playing at https://www.GuitarMusicTheory.com and get FREE custom video instruction calibrated to your current level.
The Heart of Rock and Roll info and schedule: hueytribute.com
Ep164 Nashville Studio Drummer and Music Producer Scott Williamson
In episode 164 of the Guitar Music Theory podcast, I interview Scott Williamson, a top-tier studio drummer in the Nashville area for decades. In addition to his drumming career, Scott is a mixing engineer and …
Show notes
In episode 164 of the Guitar Music Theory podcast, I interview Scott Williamson, a top-tier studio drummer in the Nashville area for decades. In addition to his drumming career, Scott is a mixing engineer and music producer. He'll provide insights into life as a studio musician, answer listener questions, and reveal his favorite guitar parts.
🎸 What do you SPECIFICALLY need to do to play guitar better? Answer the questions about your playing at https://www.GuitarMusicTheory.com and get FREE custom video instruction calibrated to your current level.
Ep163 Jack and Diane - How Does This Song Work?
How does the song "Jack and Diane" work? Listen to episode 163 of the Guitar Music Theory podcast to hear how this John Mellencamp classic features memorable acoustic guitar riffs that make great use of …
Show notes
How does the song "Jack and Diane" work? Listen to episode 163 of the Guitar Music Theory podcast to hear how this John Mellencamp classic features memorable acoustic guitar riffs that make great use of different chord shapes and chord voicings.
🎸 What do you SPECIFICALLY need to do to play guitar better? Answer the questions about your playing at https://www.GuitarMusicTheory.com and get FREE custom video instruction calibrated to your current level.
Ep162 Knights of Cydonia - How Does This Song Work?
"Knights of Cydonia" by Muse is an epic rock anthem that blends various musical influences to create a unique and powerful listening experience. The song stands out for its grandiose and cinematic feel, drawing …
Show notes
"Knights of Cydonia" by Muse is an epic rock anthem that blends various musical influences to create a unique and powerful listening experience. The song stands out for its grandiose and cinematic feel, drawing inspiration from progressive rock, space rock, and spaghetti westerns. In Episode 162 of the Guitar Music Theory podcast, I break the music down and explain how its puzzling chord changes follow a logical pattern.
🎸 What do you SPECIFICALLY need to do to play guitar better? Answer the questions about your playing at https://www.GuitarMusicTheory.com and get FREE custom video instruction calibrated to your current level.
Music Theory 101 Group Zoom Class https://www.guitarmusictheory.com/zoom-class-music-theory-101/
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