Crazy Train is a classic heavy metal song by Ozzy Osbourne that features some iconic guitar riffs and solos. The song is widely regarded as one of the greatest heavy metal songs of all time and has become a staple of rock and metal guitar playing. In this article, we will take a closer look at the Crazy Train guitar lesson in general, including the techniques, scales, and other essential elements that make up this iconic song.

Techniques Used in Crazy Train

Crazy Train includes a wide range of techniques that are commonly used in heavy metal and rock music. These techniques include:

Power Chords: Power chords are the foundation of heavy metal and rock music. They consist of two or three notes played together to create a powerful, distorted sound.

Palm Muting: Palm muting is a technique where the guitarist uses their palm to mute the strings while playing, creating a tighter, more percussive sound.

Alternate Picking: Alternate picking is a technique where the guitarist picks the strings alternately with their up and downstrokes, creating a fast, precise sound.

Hammer-Ons and Pull-Offs: Hammer-ons and pull-offs are techniques where the guitarist plays notes on the fretboard without picking, creating a smooth, legato sound.

Vibrato: Vibrato is a technique where the guitarist rapidly bends and releases the strings, creating a wavering, expressive sound.

Tapping:Tapping is a technique where the guitarist uses their fingers to tap the strings on the fretboard, creating a fast, flashy sound.

Scales Used in Crazy Train Guitar Lesson

Crazy Train includes several scales that are commonly used in heavy metal and rock music. These scales include:

The Minor Pentatonic Scale: The minor pentatonic scale is a five-note scale that is commonly used in rock and blues music. It is a versatile scale that can be used to create a wide range of moods and emotions.

The Harmonic Minor Scale: The harmonic minor scale is a seven-note scale that is commonly used in heavy metal and classical music. It has a dark, exotic sound that is perfect for creating a sense of drama and tension.

The Dorian Mode: The Dorian mode is a seven-note scale that is commonly used in jazz, blues, and rock music. It has a minor sound with a raised sixth note that gives it a unique, haunting quality.

The Phrygian Mode: The Phrygian mode is a seven-note scale that is commonly used in heavy metal and flamenco music. It has a dark, exotic sound that is perfect for creating a sense of drama and tension.

Other Essential Elements in Crazy Train Guitar Lesson

In addition to the techniques and scales used in Crazy Train, there are several other essential elements that make up this iconic song. These include:

Rhythm: Rhythm is an essential element of heavy metal and rock music. The rhythm in Crazy Train is fast and driving, with a powerful, syncopated feel that creates a sense of momentum and urgency.

Song Structure: The structure of Crazy Train is simple but effective. It consists of a verse, chorus, and bridge, with a guitar solo in the middle. The song builds in intensity as it progresses, with each section adding to the overall impact of the song.

Lyrics: The lyrics of Crazy Train are dark and intense, reflecting the mood and themes of heavy metal music. They speak to the feelings of alienation and frustration that many people experience in their lives.

Production: The production of Crazy Train is essential to its overall impact. The song is recorded with a heavy, distorted guitar tone and features a powerful drum beat and bassline that work together to create a wall of sound that is both powerful and mesmerizing.

Tips for Learning Crazy Train on Guitar

If you are interested in learning Crazy Train on guitar, there are several tips that can help you get started:

Start Slow: Crazy Train is a challenging song to play, especially for beginners. Start by practicing the riffs and solos at a slow tempo, gradually increasing the speed as you become more comfortable with the material.

Focus on Technique: The techniques used in Crazy Train are essential to its overall sound. Focus on mastering each technique, including power chords, palm muting, alternate picking, hammer-ons and pull-offs, vibrato, and tapping.

Practice Scales: The scales used in Crazy Train are an essential part of its sound. Practice the minor pentatonic, harmonic minor, Dorian mode, and Phrygian mode scales to develop your understanding of these essential elements.

Work on Rhythm: The rhythm in Crazy Train is essential to its overall sound. Practice playing along with the song, focusing on the syncopated feel of the drumbeat and bassline.

Study the Song Structure: The structure of Crazy Train is simple but effective. Study the verse, chorus, bridge, and guitar solo sections to understand how they work together to create the overall impact of the song.

Crazy Train is an essential part of any heavy metal or rock guitarist’s repertoire. It features a wide range of techniques, scales, and other essential elements that are commonly used in this genre of music. Whether you are a beginner or an experienced guitarist, learning Crazy Train on guitar can help you develop your skills and take your playing to the next level. So, start practicing today, and who knows, maybe you will be able to master this iconic song and make it your own.

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