Guitar techniques - string picking

Bryan Adams:
Summer of ’69

Hi there, today we’re going to be looking at the technique of String Picking, or playing arpeggiated chords, and how this technique is used in Bryan Adam’s classic song Summer of ’69.

The thing is, it actually looks quite straightforward. But maintaining speed and accuracy, certainly takes some practice. However once you’ve got this technique nailed, you can easily add so much extra texture and variety to the simplest of chord sequences.

As usual I’ve taken a few short individual lessons from the BandJammer site to help build a well rounded lesson, for you to learn and have fun with!

So, we have the following steps for you to follow:

1. The introduction to this technique and practice session
2. The band playing the song Summer of ’69
3. The Song Structure download
4. The lesson for Lead Guitar to play the chorus
5. The Jam track without the Lead Guitar

So, are you ready?

And remember, do leave me a comment at the bottom of the page. Thanks, Andy.

Step 1. Learning the string picking technique
In this video we look at string picking. This is a great technique for both Rhythm and Lead guitar – electric or acoustic.

Step 2. The Band playing Summer of ’69
This string picking technique is used throughout the song as far as the Lead Guitar is concerned, whereas the Rhythm Guitar tends to play straight chords.

Step 3. The song structure download for Summer of ’69
It’s a good idea to print this off and have it in front of you whilst learning the lesson.

Step 4. Summer of ’69 – Chorus for Lead Guitar
So this is just one of the 30 videos we go through to teach the whole song step by step. But this is a great way of putting this technique into practice – and have some fun!

Step 5. The Jam track for Summer of ’69
This video has the Lead Guitar played right down, but still has the Rhythm Guitar, so you can use the video and structure to see where the Lead Guitar come in with the Chorus String Picking. You’ll soon get the hand of it, and start jamming with the band!

Your comments please…
Hope you’re enjoying the videos, but please do remember to leave us a comment below. We really need and value any input you can provide – even if it’s just to say if you think this is ‘the best thing ever’ or just OK. Whatever your comment, we’d love to hear from you. Thanks – and have fun! Andy