Punching Up a Melody with Slides, Syncopation, and Double-Stops

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Recent Lessons

• September 16, 2026

  "Sweet Jane" by Velvet Underground

  Let's dive into the 1970 classic by the Velvet Underground! This one mostly uses a two-measure progression from start to finish, but there's a ton of strumming & rhythm nuance you'll need to capture the sound. I teach it all, including several different ways to play the chords needed.

• September 14, 2026

  Practical Music Theory: 1-4-5 Chords & Why They're Important

  An explanation of the three most commonly used chords in each musical key, and why they're important. Say hello to the one, four, and five chords!

• September 9, 2026

  Q&A: Understanding Secondary Dominants (ft. Sierra Ferrell)

  I answer a member question about chords that seem to fall outside the key, using secondary dominants to explain what’s happening. Featuring the catchy opening riff to Sierra Ferrell's Bells of Every Chapel.

• August 28, 2026

  Learn Riffs Faster with Chunking (ft. Johnny Cash)

  Here's a must-know technique that will help you learn any riff, solo, or extended tab much more quickly! The secret is breaking things into manageable chunks. I demonstrate using Johnny Cash's classic I Walk The Line.

• August 20, 2026

  [Updated] Chord Changes & Learning New Chords

  Over in my Beginner Chord Guide, I've updated the Chord Changes lesson page to include a ton of new written detail giving context to my video lesson. If you struggle with learning new chords or changing chords smoothly, check it out!

• August 19, 2026

  Practice Guide for "I Walk the Line" by Johnny Cash

  Check out my brand new visual companion to help you learn Johnny Cash's 1956 classic! 6 pages, including step-by-step tips for chords, strumming, walking bass lines, and more.

• August 14, 2026

  Strum & Sing "Runaway" by Del Shannon

  Learn to play this #1 hit from 1961! This song is a blast to play, as it features a fun key change and plenty of strumming flourishes to include. I teach it all, step by step!

• August 7, 2026

  Practice Guide for "Brown Eyed Girl"

  I've created a brand new Practice Guide to accompany my popular Brown Eyed Girl lesson! Enjoy an updated visual companion helping you with chord shape finger positions, various ways to play the melodic intro riff, strumming, and much more.

• July 31, 2026

  "Ohio" by Crosby Stills Nash & Young

  Learn to play this CSNY protest classic from 1970! Features an iconic rock riff, which I'll teach you to play a few different ways. I also include strumming tips for the chorus, along with options for standard and Drop-D tunings.

Browse All Recent Lessons →

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