Micro Lesson 278: "Key of C" Classic-Rock Riff
Welcome to... "Micro-Lesson 278"
It applies a series of two-note chords across the measures, (these are often referred to as double-stops). The riff begins with pick-up notes that move us into the first measure establishing a, "C" major, double-stop at the 5th position on the 4th and 3rd strings. An inverted "C" power-chord at the same position on 4th and 3rd strings takes us into the end of that measure where an inverted "D" power-chord is played at the 7th position bringing in the second measure.
The inverted, "D" power-chord, sustains throughout this measure with the pick-up note phrase returning to bring in the third measure. The third measure establishes another return to the, "C" major double-stop, but takes us higher up the neck into a new double-stop upon an inverted "G" power-chord.
At the end of the third measure we bring in another chord type. Here an, "Am" chord, pulls in the fourth measure. It is applied up at the, 4th, 3rd and 2nd strings, at 9th position. This harmony next moves down the neck into the 7th position on the same strings to produce a, "G Major," triad. The measure wraps-up on the pick-up note phrase allowing the progression to loop back to the top.
Watch the rhythm of this riff carefully, since it is operating by entirely punching through the chord changes on up-beats creating a very syncopated feel. Enjoy!
Micro Lesson 278: "Key of C" Classic-Rock Riff
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