Unveiling the Hidden Harmony: The Riff That Shaped the Sound of the 80s

TLDRDiscover the secret harmony in the iconic 80s riff that adds depth and richness to the sound. Explore the different chords and arpeggios used to create this memorable guitar riff.

Key insights

🎸The famous 80s riff is more than just power chords. It utilizes sus2 chords and adds harmonies to create a unique sound.

🔊The harmonic element in the riff adds depth to the sound, making it more complex and interesting.

🎶The riff starts on a different note than most guitar lessons teach. Understanding the true starting point reveals the hidden harmonies.

👥Many beginner guitarists struggle with the complex fingerings of the harmonies in this iconic riff.

🎵The combination of power chords and harmonies creates a unique and memorable sound that defines the sound of the 80s.

Q&A

Why does the riff sound different from what guitar tabs and lessons teach?

The riff includes harmonies that are often overlooked in guitar tabs and lessons, which is why it sounds different when played correctly.

What chords and arpeggios are used in the riff?

The riff primarily uses power chords as a base and adds sus2 chords and extended arpeggios to create the harmonies.

Why is the harmony more present in the recording than in live performances?

The harmony is achieved through studio recording techniques, and it may not be feasible or practical to recreate it perfectly in live performances.

Why is it important to understand the hidden harmonies in this riff?

Understanding the harmonies in this riff gives guitarists insight into creating their own unique sounds and exploring different chord voicings.

Can I apply the same harmonic techniques to other guitar riffs?

Yes, the harmonic techniques used in this riff can be applied to other guitar riffs to add depth and complexity to the sound.

Timestamped Summary

00:00Introduction to the iconic riff and its significance in the 80s music scene.

02:30Explanation of the hidden harmonies and their role in shaping the sound of the riff.

04:59Breakdown of the different chords and arpeggios used in the riff.

06:32Discussion on the starting note of the riff and its impact on the overall composition.

08:20Explanation of the challenges beginner guitarists face when playing the harmonies in the riff.