Learn "You Shook Me All Night Long" by AC/DC on the Guitar

In this lesson, we'll learn how to play You Shook Me All Night Long by AC/DC on the guitar. This classic rock song is a fantastic one to explore if you're keen to understand the essence of rock guitar playing. Its straightforward chord progression and infectious energy make it a must-know for every aspiring rock guitarist.

Introduction and Chord Progression

The song kicks off with an iconic intro that sets the stage for what follows. As we dive into this song, we'll focus on the main chord progression in the verses and how to strum the song to give it that characteristic rock energy.

The chord progression of You Shook Me All Night Long is fairly simple, but the execution makes it special. The verses start with a G chord. A common technique in AC/DC songs, which you'll find here as well, is leaving off the B note. This technique creates a cleaner, less messy sound.

The verse then follows a sequence of C, G, C, and D chords. With the C and D chords, aim to mute the thinnest string to give your chords a fuller sound. You'll often hear the open A string ringing out with the D chord, adding more depth to the sound.

One thing that makes AC/DC's music captivating is their knack for adding depth and richness to simple chords. We'll discuss this in detail as we progress through the lesson.

Strumming and Rhythm

One of the key aspects of playing any song is achieving the right strumming rhythm and energy. This becomes crucial when dealing with songs as rhythmically driven as "You Shook Me All Night Long." We'll talk about how to strum this song to give it the right energy and make your performance sound authentic.

Song Practice and Performance Tips

Like with any new song, practice is key. Start slowly, familiarize yourself with the chord changes, and gradually build up your speed. Remember, it's not just about playing the chords right. It's about capturing the spirit of the song, and that comes with understanding the groove and dynamics of the song.

And don't forget, if you're struggling with the chord changes, finding a workaround that suits you is completely okay. The most important thing is to enjoy the process of learning and making the song your own.

Finally, always remember that playing music is not just about technical precision. It's about expressing yourself, connecting with the song, and having fun. So loosen up, let the music move you, and rock on!

Final Thoughts

I hope you're as excited as I am to dive into this classic rock anthem. Remember, the journey of learning a new song is just as rewarding as the destination. So enjoy the ride, and don't be too hard on yourself. You're doing an amazing job!

Follow these links to go to Part 2 and Part 3 of this lesson.

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