@@sikohhalilintar6935 Sure, even Steve Vai says, "Jeff Beck didn't need to know any theory to blow people's fucking minds". Doesn't mean that knowing theory is bad either, just means that you can know all the theory in the world and doesn't necessarily mean you'll have the creative mind to make shit sound good.
“I don’t really do theory. For example if I’m in the key of C doing a 1 4 5 progression and then do a flat third major interval over a minor 7th, carry the one, boom new song. Nothing but feelings.”
I mean yeah he doesn't really seem to get too deep into theory. 1 4 5 is by far the most common chord progression found in rock/pop/folk songs and the stuff he talks about with scales is pretty basic.
The thing is, you learn all the theory, scales, arpeggios, etc to not need to think about it. Once you learn it, it becomes automatic. When you do all these technical/theoretical exercises, they may feel pointless and "emotionless" at the moment. But at the same time you will internalize all that stuff. It becomes part of your "vocabulary" and you will subconsciously start hearing new sounds in your head. You shouldn't think about theory too much when you are playing. But theory makes learning new things about music and communicating with other musicians a lot easier. Same thing with technique - you learn it so that you don't need to worry about something being too difficult to play. It gives you more freedom.
I don't think Slash would disagree with anything MaggaraMarine said. He just prefers rock/blues style playing so he sticks to theory necessary for that genre. If you just want to do one thing really well, then you just need to practice that one thing, if however, you want to play in a large range of styles, learn new things quickly and communicate much better with other musicians, then theory is the way to go. While a lot of people play amazingly and are hugely successful with knowing much theory, I've never heard anyone say they regret learning it or that it didn't make them a better all-round musician. The point is, whatever type of music you want to make, you want to practice it so often that you don't even think about it while playing, in the same way you don't have to consciously think about the shapes your mouth makes when you're talking. You just think about what you want to say and the words come out.
One point I'd like to add is that while Slash is a good guitarist/musician, that doesn't mean he is necessarily a good teacher. A lot of great musicians have found their own ways of doing things that definitely work for them but that may or may not work for other people. Teachers on the other hand know the "formal" way of doing things that is going to work pretty much all the time. All of the theory and technique and stuff like that was invented to help people so that they don't need to figure out everything on their own. Slash definitely knows a lot of stuff in practice, but he doesn't seem to be able put his musical ideas into words (at least not that effectively). And that's totally fine if all you do is your own thing. But most people will not be able to "make it" by just doing their own thing, and this is when all of the technical/theoretical knowledge will help you. But obviously it will also help you when you are just learning things because it's easier to make sense of everything when you know what you are doing. Some people do learn theory the wrong way. They learn it as things that you are allowed/not allowed to do - rules that you absolutely need to follow. But that's not what theory is for. Music is sound first, theory second. Theory is based on finding common patterns in music, not really the other way around, though I'm sure the knowledge of theory has also helped many musicians to come up with new stuff - I mean, when you know theory, it makes it much easier to learn about new styles. I would say that in a way music theory is a language, and once you know "the language of music theory", you can also apply it to new musical situations to make sense of them. Music theory is a way of organizing sounds that you hear and it will help you with paying attention to certain details in music that you might not pay attention to if you didn't know theory. The more you learn about theory, the less you think about basic stuff like chord progressions and scales, and the more you start to pay attention to stuff like form, voice leading, the direction of a melodic line, contrasts, transitions, counterpoint (most of the time the relationship between the bass and the main melody), the melodic/rhythmic material the piece is made out of (motifs), stuff like that. Questions like "what does this chord do in this key" or "what scale is he using" become much less important. (Well, this bit doesn't have much to do with improvisation really - it's more about learning about music in general. But sure, some of those also have applications in improvisation, and of course the more you know about music in general, the easier it is to learn new things about music, and this also applies to improvisation.) I would say theory doesn't replace your ears, it is there to support them. The thing is, language is important to humans and it's a way of making sense of things. It's easier to memorize how something sounds like if you can name it. And I would say this is what theory is about in a nutshell - it is about naming sounds and finding common patterns to make it easier to make sense of music.
Imaging if you are gong to teach someone how to drink a cup of water....the best you can do is to drink it and say “like that yenno....” that’s the case of Slash
Well as a teenager I had a buddy guy instructional guitar video and I can attest there was a lot of very informal teaching that makes slash sound like a professor here. That being said I learned some sweet licks from that video.
Joe Perry summed up Shash perfectly: "Slashs point of distinction is that he gives the song what it needs... instead of just using it as a means to showcase his technical abilities like most other notable players"
You idiot! He is allready in a band. He is the guitarrist of ACDC, they have a very famous song called Stairway to Heaven but you probably dont know it...
Slash has so many hilarious lines, but the, "I sort of make it up as I go along...but the main thing I do go for is obviously the rock sound". LOOOOL. "I stick with as many different rock positions as I can get". Hahaha! Love this dude. I love when people bag on him for being Mr. Pentatonic, b/c a) it's not true, he plays natural and harmonic minor, Phrygian, etc. but at the end of the day, Slash WANTS his music to sound a certain way, he doesn't want to use modes that sound like video game scores, or doom metal, b/c that's not the music he likes to make. It's that simple...it's like going, "whoa, dude, why doesn't Jimmy Page throw in some Lydian, bro?" Dingbats.
I heard him live on the last tour and discovered he really plays like a true musician, not just a great rock guitar player. A lot of those solos had a ton of flavor and musicality. You can tell he doesn't stick to just one type of scale. I think he would be comfortable playing all types of styles.
No... he really doesn't. Listen to any random video of him on youtube, he only knows the "rock scale", or major scale and it's 6th mode. That's why all of his music has sounded exactly the same for 30 years. It's just pathetic for a guitarist as famous as him.
Andy's Mad House I'm a huge fan of Slash and even I have to admit his music hasn't changed. It's still power chord hard rock and pentatonic soloing with minor/major passing notes. A change in music would be Slash doing an R&B, Funk, pure blues, classical, jazz, or concept albums no matter how musically complex or technical. He's stuck to Hard Rock since he picked up the guitar (There's nothing wrong with that, just generic).
Shoulda been named “Slash confuses himself and the viewers for 3 minutes” Edit: oh wow this got more likes than I thought😂😂if you wanna see more of my “clever” jokes hit my youtube channel lol
pentatonic yeah...? The rock sound? then some minor for really minor song mkay? stick to the rock, you know? add some sixth or seventh if you know what I mean.
When he says rock sounding its definitely minor pentatonic (5 note scale) . When he says hes in c but does the scale in A pretty sure thats aeolian mode which is using the 6th as the root. Then again im no slash
You can tell he's hiding his deep knowledge on the locrian and myxolydian modes and the circle of 5th inversions because they don't jive with his skull t shirt.
The fact that Slash can’t explain all that well how he does what he does just tells how awesome he is, he’s not a technician he’s an artist and to me that is the essence of rock
No point arguing over what theory he does or doesn't know! I would say he knows just enough to make his guitar sing and that's what counts. He puts his emotions into every note and makes amazing melodies and riffs. He is a massive inspiration to me. I guess being nice about people is a bit of a struggle for some! 😂
This is fantastic. I saw a tutorial video basically explaining exactly this technique but it was more thought out and explained better. Slash uses the pentatonic as a foundation for all other scales; based on what key and chord progression is playing in the background, he uses modes and other scales as quote "passing notes" that simply are appended to the pentatonic scale. Take, for example, the major (Ionian) scale. Because the major pentatonic is such a simplistic 5 note scale, you can just add ionian notes to the major scale when necessary; if you remove the ionian notes, you are still playing something that will sound pleasant. To me it's a great approach to improv and it explains why his solos are so pleasant - he's not trying to play within a scale, he's just using his ear to pick the appropriate notes.
slash knows a fair bit he might not know the names of the scale but he gets what intervals you need to add to make them sound a certain way which is ultimately much more powerful
To end this frivolous argument...some people just have a natural talent for certain things. For Slash, it's playing the guitar. I am a musician myself, and play many different instruments...guitar, bass, drums, etc...it comes a family background of music which has an influential impact on a kid growing up around it and in that environment all their life...plus I had family members like my Father and Grandfather who taught me things here and there...taught me some chords and I just took off with it...it was natural to me. Some people study and study, practice and practice to get as good as they are...some don't have to...it just comes naturally. So unless you're a musician of any shape, form or fashion...then you don't know what the fuck you're talking about and just trolling...so shut the fuck up and go troll somewhere else...untalented fucks. Those who have NO talent musically whatsoever are those who bitch and complain, nitpick those who do...and that's a fact.
Slash is the pro he is because everytime he plays you know that it is Slash playing. Out of all the scales, techniques, equipment and players in the world his playing stands out as his own...... and that my friends is bank.
I was thinking that's what he was doing. Hard to tell. So, when he said he was doing a 1-4-5 in C, he was soloing with the Am pentatonic? He goes too fast but that's what it looked like.
I can completely relate to what Slash said. Whenever i try to make up a solo or riff I'll try to figure it out with scales and once i find something cool, I make up a bunch of other cool sounding stuff without even looking at a scale. Once you find something cool it will lead to other stuff. The guitar fretboard is like a big puzzle and you have to find the right pieces
this is awesome, getting into the playing of Slash. seems the rule is to just add what sounds good to you to basic scales. it's easy to get too locked up
Just like to say thanks slash for taking the time to show us a few tricks. Some of the over achievers in here are just jealous because no matter what they think they know about music theroy will never touch your skill level.. lol rock on and was a great show in louisville. Never would have thought to see gnr in my lifetime.
Isnt aeolian something to do with nipples?? Either that or its like a dip or something... or like a sauce. Yeah? Dont quote me, but pretty sure its one of those things.
Lol I thought the exact same thing. He just builds off the pentatonic as a basic framework and fills in the two missing diatonic notes where appropriate on the fly ad hoc. I figured this was how he and many play and now I know for sure. LMAO
@@465marko I have phalangians and they don't move like that on the guitar. When I play guitar it's the same way a sausage rolls off the grill and hits the patio. There's a sound, some cursing, and a mess to clean up.
"But I can't do that..." "...So I just sort of make it up as I go along." "One thing that I do go for is obviously the Rock sound" "I stick with as many different Rock positions as I can get" "We're playing in C.... Then there's this one - which is sort of in A, really" "Then you just add the 3rd. Is it a third? No.... the sixth." "But you know what I mean, right?" Who would have thought Slash's playing came down to these sentences.
i just started to play again, and i am going through the ABC's. Learning the notes across the fretboard, learning the major scales and the six chords of it, the 1,4,5 being major, the 2,3,6 being minor. I even started playing a few pentatonic scales. So far it has been a little boring, but I have goals to become a great guitarist, and think I have to do this boring stuff to understand the instrument. I bet one day it will all click, and going through this intro phase will pay off. But being an artist of various mediums throughout my life, I can see immediately the creativity inherent in the instrument. There principles to how it works, but at the end of the day, you can play whatever the hell you want. there really are no rules. thats why i love art. best way to express yourself in the world.
This arty farty nonsense there really are no rules. No, there really are rules. And if your guitar playing is some arty no rules free form crap I'm going to throw you under the amp. Dark Side Of The Moon sold big but I'll take Livin On A Prayer - a song that follows every rule of turning your brain into a napalm rockgasm. It's a form of narrow-minded snobbery - oh, I'm only going to learn as little as possible and get my arty farty to do the rest. Please!! I compose a bit on the piano and I'll use whatever help I can get from anywhere - that's why I'll watch Slash or a technical video. Or any video. When people say there are no rules it's like an inmate that can't see a prison - ha.
I find a lot of wisdom in his approach. It has taken me forever to apply scales to music...finally I crossed some barrier and can pick out some tunes with my eyes closed. Even a no talent guy can possess this wonderful thing about music. 50 years of work and I have only just crossed this barrier.
Lol, what the fuck are you talking about, what wisdom is there? He basically just babbles for a couple of minutes, plays some note virtuoso style and everybody is like kissing his ass. Meanwhile, he doesn't really know what he fucking is talking about and there is nothing to learn from this needless video. Wisdom my ass...
@@whiterottenrabbit slash - millions of records sold, an inspiration for hundreds of guitar players, and part of one of the greatest bands in history (depending who you ask) Whiterottenrabbit - a CZcams comment
@@whiterottenrabbit music means different things to different people, you might not learn anything from this video, but honestly you probably won't learn anything from watching a badminton or table tennis match either, while people that have an eye for it will pick up on subtle details, and might apply it to their own playing
Slash knows way more theory that people think. I think he's trying to explain it to a broader audience of guitar players, who didn't learn a lot of theory. Like me. This is beautiful
This is what differentiates Slash from other guitarists. His solos don't sound 'technical'. They have soul. You can be very technical with extensive knowledge of all the scales but if you don't have the real talent of creating music with your guitar you'll just be another guy with fast fingers who can walk the neck down and up. That is why November Rain is still one of the songs that have the greatest guitar solos of all time. And most of the GNR songs really. Just listen to the guitar solos. Each guitar solo is like a song itself. Not technical sounding but has real heart.
I did. He plays a lot by feel but you can see he's brought his theory up past a certain level and he knows he could go further but what he really wants is to express that rock vibe and that's what he does really well with a lot of interesting extra bits thrown in. but he stays in that rock vibe. He's not going for a Via stlye or jazz theory or what not. He shows he knows all the scales up different positions. Like for me it's been enough to know what notes im playing on the bass notes and I can quickly see octaves and shapes based off all the bass notes. but i've never had any use to learn all the notes all the way up the neck. but that exercise to know a part of a scale then do the exact same scale like a tone and half up the neck and keep going all the way could be a really good exercise for improv. I'm gonna have a look at that. also the way he's looking at scales/ soloing over chords and connecting the different accents in the chord (like 6th/11ths 7, 9 etc) is interesting to look at studying how to do that right up into all the high notes. I've been a working rock/ folk muso (self taught) for a couple decades but I've only really got into more jazz chord theory in the past 24months. I've learnt the jazz chords that I can use but knowing that further for lead playing is inspiring to me. The thing is there's lots of guys who might know how to read and play like machines but it's what you can intuitively create with music is where the real thrill for a lot of songwriters and improvisers. 'slash' clearly gets that and is an exceptional player but is still down to earth about the theory side.. I mean just listen to what he's doing in the crescendo of Paradise City. it's off the chain! (but it's theoretically a really simple song)
One of the best guitar players I know, who has toured with bands in and around Nashville and east US, has no idea what I mean when I mention the pentatonic scale. Has learned everything completely by ear his entire life and would blow your mind.
Just because you can’t clearly articulate and explain theory, doesn’t mean you aren’t using it. From what I gather he seems to be trying to describe the difference between the minor pentatonic scale and the major pentatonic scale. Look, I don't want to be negative or anything but being inarticulate about something doesn't make you more 'real' or 'genuine'. It just make you difficult to understand and that unclarity is actually not very helpful to those less experienced than you.
I keep it simple stupid. I just make sure I know it's major minor or something else. I can play the something else but even in slower songs a lot happens in a second so I'd be deconstructing the chord . So I call the ones I don't know all names for smelly chords . It's sounds stupid. But if something sounds wrong I know it's wrong that's the key. I understand the fret board more than theory . But it's from being self taught and watching guys like slash. Kind of paint by numbers to be fair Would like to be able to word it better . That's the guitar tho that's the fun always knowing you can learn more and making sure you look for the wall and don't rest on what you can do. That's something I'm guilty off quite a lot 🤟✌️
Most of the best guitarists don't have in depth theory. They have feeling, soul and a knack for the instrument that just comes somewhat naturally to there ears.
I’ve got the Slash Series Les Paul recently and I’m just improvising lead guitar and posting my videos (improvised solo over November Rain backing track yesterday!) 👊🤠🎸 Thank you Slash for an AMAZING sounding guitar as well as confirmation of the importance of keeping things extremely simple thinking musically and rhythmically above complex theory. Love it! 👊🤠🎸
I remember MAKING my mother buy me this issue of Guitar World Mag. JUST for this damn DVD/CD lesson 😅😅 here I am like 17 years later watching it for free on the internet.
I love the comments. Notice how since Slash doesn't really know all the technical ins and outs of what he does everyone else feels the need to show their immense knowledge and try and break it down. And while they're doing that Slash is selling out Stadiums around the world. lol
Everyone that hates on him does so from a perspective of amazement. It's truly a wonder how someone so untalented can become so famous, really makes you think about the music industry.
bandit7498 the fact that he is selling stadiums around the world and knowledge of music theory have nothing in common. The fact that he is making lots of money doesn't imply that he knows more music theory than the guys in this comment section. Your logic has got big flaws, mate.
LER iz mor No flaws what so ever. Read what I said son. I said all these folks sitting at home trying to break down what he's doing because he doesn't even know. They're bashing Slash because he's not a theorist while he's out selling out stadiums around the world. I was pretty clear in my statement. People that LISTEN to music could give two shits about the theory behind it. If it moves them they're happy. I'm a musician so I'm not saying some knowledge of theory isn't useful. My point is all these saps sitting here thinking they're somehow better than him because they have more theory than he does, when in the overall scheme of things no one really gives a fuck. The dude makes music that people like. He has a sound that people like. Doesn't matter if he understands it on a technical level. If it works it works. Mate.
Mate, would you just shut the fuck up already? Just about every comment from the top down has had you trolling Slash in it at some point. We get it. You think he's overrated. I'm not the biggest fan either, but I think he's a cool guy and I enjoyed watching the vid. Your incessant commenting is not constructive, and makes you sound like an absolute toss-pot. How about you take your negative attitude and fuck off to Guitar Center.
“Every kid has a book of scales” My life is a lie....... never thought these existed I had to memorize them by head and take a video of my friend going through the scale to learn it 😂😂😂😂😂
That was awesome at the end he went from Dorian to Aeolian and he’s like it sounds weird having that six there on Dorian laughing my ass off he’s so good
Same line, different key, but yeah, he's certainly influenced by Page. I think his playing is cleaner than Page's, though. That's not to say anything about Page's creativity or innovation. Just saying Slash's playing is a bit more crisp.
Yep, he knows exactly what he's doing (although he's definitely playing it down a lot here to keep the 'effortless myth' alive). The cool thing is that he has obviously never let the 'theory' get in the way of the 'music'.
Reminds me of when I once asked a guitar instructor in college if there were any good exercise gadgets or techniques to strengthen my hand for guitar playing and he said "sure, practice guitar."
You are the rocken roll guitar God... very true to your form. It real is simple stuff. What i like about my bro is ....he is so real. i can't help but think my buddy he is going to be playing in my band in L.A. this summer. When you tap into the source it is endless. This bad boy is at the root of it all.
I honestly think it’s all about the hat. Get the hat everything else falls in line. Theory, tone, counterpoint, song structure, diminished scales, flat nines ... the hat clarifies it all.
LOL! Slash is so bomb, what else did I get out of this? The sly way he tucked his pick away at 2:30 so he could finger pluck, then brings it back a few seconds later.
Slash isn't much of a theory guy, but he sure can play. In the end, that's all that matters. He's a rich and successful pro while the PHD music majors are flippin' burgers.
I assure you, if somebody has a degree in music they are not flipping burgers. They are most likely teaching music, working as a session player, playing for a symphony or some other type of classical ensemble (and those musicians get paid very well)...nobody with a phd is flipping burgers.
This is the most comprehensive lesson on scales and improvisation and also how to play scales and arpeggios and form entire chords. On a personal note I hate that hat so much and as someone who sucks at guitar daily I want to just beat him up so badly
Because he doesn't know shit about basic music theory, let alone modes. He just goes for the rock sound, with a sixth o a seventh, you know what I mean?
I just seen Slash Australia video concert on tv and holy cow his playing style is no other on this planet then he goes into heavy blues off the guitar body 🤘🎸🤘... I can see how Slash makes other guitarists jealous ..
When he starts playing I immediately love his tone. Most guitar teachers on youtube have waaaay to much distortion and when they show a phrase/lick/scale every fucking note they end on they use ridiculous amounts of vibrato with their finger and then slide down the neck, completely unaware that it makes them look like a complete tool.
Slash is definitely a guy who understands far more than he can explain
definitely cannot explain
@@lukeluquer4611 cause it’s mostly ear hand correlation of sounding good to him
Most underrated comment
ha ha sorry excuse me, he cannot explain what he doesnt know
he knows a lot more theory stuff that you would asume, just not good at explaining, but mostly he plays by ear and feel
"If it sounds good, it is good." -- Eddie VanHalen
So, no theory is ok, right?
@@sikohhalilintar6935 i think its ok
@@sikohhalilintar6935 yes
@@sikohhalilintar6935 Sure, even Steve Vai says, "Jeff Beck didn't need to know any theory to blow people's fucking minds". Doesn't mean that knowing theory is bad either, just means that you can know all the theory in the world and doesn't necessarily mean you'll have the creative mind to make shit sound good.
@@joeblough261 yeah thanks man
Slash has written some of the best solos in the industry
Slash trying to teach guitar: *does a cool solo*
"Uhhh just play a rock scale and put in a 7th or whatever"
rock scales always have 7ths in them.
"you know what I mean, right?" damn good advice to those of us who play by feel!
“I don’t really do theory. For example if I’m in the key of C doing a 1 4 5 progression and then do a flat third major interval over a minor 7th, carry the one, boom new song. Nothing but feelings.”
😂😂😂
lmao!! This is the BEST!!!
I mean yeah he doesn't really seem to get too deep into theory. 1 4 5 is by far the most common chord progression found in rock/pop/folk songs and the stuff he talks about with scales is pretty basic.
@@DavidPintoKent Awesome job man
Yes that killed me as well loool! But it is just basic theory though...
The thing is, you learn all the theory, scales, arpeggios, etc to not need to think about it. Once you learn it, it becomes automatic. When you do all these technical/theoretical exercises, they may feel pointless and "emotionless" at the moment. But at the same time you will internalize all that stuff. It becomes part of your "vocabulary" and you will subconsciously start hearing new sounds in your head.
You shouldn't think about theory too much when you are playing. But theory makes learning new things about music and communicating with other musicians a lot easier. Same thing with technique - you learn it so that you don't need to worry about something being too difficult to play. It gives you more freedom.
I don't think Slash would disagree with anything MaggaraMarine said. He just prefers rock/blues style playing so he sticks to theory necessary for that genre. If you just want to do one thing really well, then you just need to practice that one thing, if however, you want to play in a large range of styles, learn new things quickly and communicate much better with other musicians, then theory is the way to go. While a lot of people play amazingly and are hugely successful with knowing much theory, I've never heard anyone say they regret learning it or that it didn't make them a better all-round musician. The point is, whatever type of music you want to make, you want to practice it so often that you don't even think about it while playing, in the same way you don't have to consciously think about the shapes your mouth makes when you're talking. You just think about what you want to say and the words come out.
+John Parsons
Why not listen to some other great musicians?
MaggaraMarine
One point I'd like to add is that while Slash is a good guitarist/musician, that doesn't mean he is necessarily a good teacher. A lot of great musicians have found their own ways of doing things that definitely work for them but that may or may not work for other people. Teachers on the other hand know the "formal" way of doing things that is going to work pretty much all the time. All of the theory and technique and stuff like that was invented to help people so that they don't need to figure out everything on their own.
Slash definitely knows a lot of stuff in practice, but he doesn't seem to be able put his musical ideas into words (at least not that effectively). And that's totally fine if all you do is your own thing. But most people will not be able to "make it" by just doing their own thing, and this is when all of the technical/theoretical knowledge will help you. But obviously it will also help you when you are just learning things because it's easier to make sense of everything when you know what you are doing.
Some people do learn theory the wrong way. They learn it as things that you are allowed/not allowed to do - rules that you absolutely need to follow. But that's not what theory is for. Music is sound first, theory second. Theory is based on finding common patterns in music, not really the other way around, though I'm sure the knowledge of theory has also helped many musicians to come up with new stuff - I mean, when you know theory, it makes it much easier to learn about new styles.
I would say that in a way music theory is a language, and once you know "the language of music theory", you can also apply it to new musical situations to make sense of them. Music theory is a way of organizing sounds that you hear and it will help you with paying attention to certain details in music that you might not pay attention to if you didn't know theory. The more you learn about theory, the less you think about basic stuff like chord progressions and scales, and the more you start to pay attention to stuff like form, voice leading, the direction of a melodic line, contrasts, transitions, counterpoint (most of the time the relationship between the bass and the main melody), the melodic/rhythmic material the piece is made out of (motifs), stuff like that. Questions like "what does this chord do in this key" or "what scale is he using" become much less important. (Well, this bit doesn't have much to do with improvisation really - it's more about learning about music in general. But sure, some of those also have applications in improvisation, and of course the more you know about music in general, the easier it is to learn new things about music, and this also applies to improvisation.)
I would say theory doesn't replace your ears, it is there to support them. The thing is, language is important to humans and it's a way of making sense of things. It's easier to memorize how something sounds like if you can name it. And I would say this is what theory is about in a nutshell - it is about naming sounds and finding common patterns to make it easier to make sense of music.
The frog is green and the lily is in the pond...
Imagine him doing a guitar lesson video.
“Like that yenno”
You know what I mean right?
Best teacher ever
Imaging if you are gong to teach someone how to drink a cup of water....the best you can do is to drink it and say “like that yenno....” that’s the case of Slash
U know im sayin
Well as a teenager I had a buddy guy instructional guitar video and I can attest there was a lot of very informal teaching that makes slash sound like a professor here. That being said I learned some sweet licks from that video.
Slash didn't miss his calling as a guitar teacher.
🤣🤣
You fckng right!! I’ve got nothing from it but we still Stan this mfr -he’s it.
Joe Perry summed up Shash perfectly: "Slashs point of distinction is that he gives the song what it needs... instead of just using it as a means to showcase his technical abilities like most other notable players"
who cares
When Axl was drinking he would call him "Shash"
Preach!
The best drummers apply that philosophy as well.
@@earjwee ok guy
This guy is good he should join a band.
That's actually a great idea
You idiot! He is allready in a band. He is the guitarrist of ACDC, they have a very famous song called Stairway to Heaven but you probably dont know it...
@@pedrofernandez7232 I know right? Such a shame...
@@malanumf.jamesconrad6854 it's a joke, calm down
@@pedrofernandez7232 i got your joke mate 😂
I feel like I learned everything, and nothing at the same time - you, you know what I mean.
Slash has so many hilarious lines, but the, "I sort of make it up as I go along...but the main thing I do go for is obviously the rock sound". LOOOOL. "I stick with as many different rock positions as I can get". Hahaha! Love this dude. I love when people bag on him for being Mr. Pentatonic, b/c a) it's not true, he plays natural and harmonic minor, Phrygian, etc. but at the end of the day, Slash WANTS his music to sound a certain way, he doesn't want to use modes that sound like video game scores, or doom metal, b/c that's not the music he likes to make. It's that simple...it's like going, "whoa, dude, why doesn't Jimmy Page throw in some Lydian, bro?" Dingbats.
Yep in songs like neither can i, double talkin' jive outro, sweet child (run)
Jimmy did it, actually..
Don't be fooled, he knows more than he lets on. It's just that too much theory doesn't go with his bad boy image ;-)
In his book he said he took a music theory class in highschool.
I heard him live on the last tour and discovered he really plays like a true musician, not just a great rock guitar player. A lot of those solos had a ton of flavor and musicality. You can tell he doesn't stick to just one type of scale. I think he would be comfortable playing all types of styles.
No... he really doesn't. Listen to any random video of him on youtube, he only knows the "rock scale", or major scale and it's 6th mode. That's why all of his music has sounded exactly the same for 30 years. It's just pathetic for a guitarist as famous as him.
Andy's Mad House I'm a huge fan of Slash and even I have to admit his music hasn't changed. It's still power chord hard rock and pentatonic soloing with minor/major passing notes. A change in music would be Slash doing an R&B, Funk, pure blues, classical, jazz, or concept albums no matter how musically complex or technical. He's stuck to Hard Rock since he picked up the guitar (There's nothing wrong with that, just generic).
John Mac Yeah these guys always claim to not know shit about theory to sound more relatable.
It’s all about the feel, Slash has a gift for it. He feels for the notes and the way he plays it. The same can be said for many talented guitarist.
Shoulda been named “Slash confuses himself and the viewers for 3 minutes”
Edit: oh wow this got more likes than I thought😂😂if you wanna see more of my “clever” jokes hit my youtube channel lol
Exactly
Haha good one
He finished the interview with a little part of the stairway to heaven solo
punkdudeone85 lol ikr
Typical Slash, reminds you of just another average guy at Guitar Center every time you see him.
Maybe, sounds like the Godfather a bit too.
Glad someone else caught that as well lol
Just A minor pentatonic
So what he’s saying is...
What’s he saying?
pentatonic yeah...? The rock sound? then some minor for really minor song mkay? stick to the rock, you know? add some sixth or seventh if you know what I mean.
We’re not a bank, jerry
Johann Daart
Got it !! Will there be a final exam in this ?
Go get some theory pal
When he says rock sounding its definitely minor pentatonic (5 note scale) . When he says hes in c but does the scale in A pretty sure thats aeolian mode which is using the 6th as the root. Then again im no slash
If you good at something don’t give away your secrets.. is what I learnt from that lesson.
I love the way he phrases his licks, they almost sound playful in a way, like his guitar is saying "come on, let's have some fun and fuck shit up"
You can tell he's hiding his deep knowledge on the locrian and myxolydian modes and the circle of 5th inversions because they don't jive with his skull t shirt.
LOL
The fact that Slash can’t explain all that well how he does what he does just tells how awesome he is, he’s not a technician he’s an artist and to me that is the essence of rock
No point arguing over what theory he does or doesn't know! I would say he knows just enough to make his guitar sing and that's what counts. He puts his emotions into every note and makes amazing melodies and riffs. He is a massive inspiration to me. I guess being nice about people is a bit of a struggle for some! 😂
This is fantastic. I saw a tutorial video basically explaining exactly this technique but it was more thought out and explained better. Slash uses the pentatonic as a foundation for all other scales; based on what key and chord progression is playing in the background, he uses modes and other scales as quote "passing notes" that simply are appended to the pentatonic scale. Take, for example, the major (Ionian) scale. Because the major pentatonic is such a simplistic 5 note scale, you can just add ionian notes to the major scale when necessary; if you remove the ionian notes, you are still playing something that will sound pleasant. To me it's a great approach to improv and it explains why his solos are so pleasant - he's not trying to play within a scale, he's just using his ear to pick the appropriate notes.
Richard Rackley In one of his books Guthrie Govan details a similar approach
Great observation
No he just makes it up as he goes
He still has a mentor.... One of the greatest guitar players ever, and he still takes lessons. Always striving for improvement, that’s the attitude.
yes vai is better than him in technical aspects.
@@affif330 yes but slash is much better then Vai in solo parts.
@@nenadpesic13 😭 lmao bro vai is his teacher
@@affif330 no it not Steve Vai his teachers.
It's Steve his guitar tech,he teach Slash some scales...
But slash dont use them...
Instructions unclear. Got my Les Paul stuck upsidedown in the toilet hole
xD
Instructions unclear got my dick stuck in the Les Paul
Stash sucks. Dont like any of his junk. Micheal Schenker way better. Stash is a drug rocker.
Chris Montreuil yeah that stash guy doesn’t have no feeling, but this slash guy is actually really good
Instructions unclear. Bought a Fender.
slash knows a fair bit he might not know the names of the scale but he gets what intervals you need to add to make them sound a certain way which is ultimately much more powerful
No he doesn't
yea he does.
Eric Hanley no he doesn't
HardRock73
Yes, he does.
To end this frivolous argument...some people just have a natural talent for certain things. For Slash, it's playing the guitar. I am a musician myself, and play many different instruments...guitar, bass, drums, etc...it comes a family background of music which has an influential impact on a kid growing up around it and in that environment all their life...plus I had family members like my Father and Grandfather who taught me things here and there...taught me some chords and I just took off with it...it was natural to me. Some people study and study, practice and practice to get as good as they are...some don't have to...it just comes naturally. So unless you're a musician of any shape, form or fashion...then you don't know what the fuck you're talking about and just trolling...so shut the fuck up and go troll somewhere else...untalented fucks. Those who have NO talent musically whatsoever are those who bitch and complain, nitpick those who do...and that's a fact.
Slash is the pro he is because everytime he plays you know that it is Slash playing. Out of all the scales, techniques, equipment and players in the world his playing stands out as his own...... and that my friends is bank.
Slash has perfect picking technique, and his economy of movement is excellent.
I love how he calls the pentatonic scale the rock scale lol so true
I was thinking that's what he was doing. Hard to tell. So, when he said he was doing a 1-4-5 in C, he was soloing with the Am pentatonic? He goes too fast but that's what it looked like.
It is the relative minor it has same notes and the Am postion would work for C
Slash has amazing feel in his playing, and above all else, his own sound. He’s so smooth, everything just flows.
My favourite guitar player ever. So much emotion and melody in his playing
I can completely relate to what Slash said. Whenever i try to make up a solo or riff I'll try to figure it out with scales and once i find something cool, I make up a bunch of other cool sounding stuff without even looking at a scale. Once you find something cool it will lead to other stuff. The guitar fretboard is like a big puzzle and you have to find the right pieces
couldn't agree more. I never had lessons, I learn scales with tabs and stuff but I really can relate
69th like lol
this is awesome, getting into the playing of Slash. seems the rule is to just add what sounds good to you to basic scales. it's easy to get too locked up
Just like to say thanks slash for taking the time to show us a few tricks. Some of the over achievers in here are just jealous because no matter what they think they know about music theroy will never touch your skill level.. lol rock on and was a great show in louisville. Never would have thought to see gnr in my lifetime.
very talented i love watching slash play and also explaing what the chords are and the riffs love it
Slash just explained ionian, mixolydian, dorian, and aeolian in the most rock n roll way possible
Basically. He started the interview off essentially saying he doesn't know anything about guitar modes, but ends the video explaining a few modes lol
Isnt aeolian something to do with nipples?? Either that or its like a dip or something... or like a sauce. Yeah?
Dont quote me, but pretty sure its one of those things.
Lol I thought the exact same thing. He just builds off the pentatonic as a basic framework and fills in the two missing diatonic notes where appropriate on the fly ad hoc. I figured this was how he and many play and now I know for sure. LMAO
@@465marko I have phalangians and they don't move like that on the guitar. When I play guitar it's the same way a sausage rolls off the grill and hits the patio. There's a sound, some cursing, and a mess to clean up.
You know what I mean right....
This is amazing. I've now mastered the guitar after only 3 minutes!
"But I can't do that..."
"...So I just sort of make it up as I go along."
"One thing that I do go for is obviously the Rock sound"
"I stick with as many different Rock positions as I can get"
"We're playing in C.... Then there's this one - which is sort of in A, really"
"Then you just add the 3rd. Is it a third? No.... the sixth."
"But you know what I mean, right?"
Who would have thought Slash's playing came down to these sentences.
This was a great refresher on how little I know about the 🎸 but I have a blast playing. 😎
Slash plays from the heart. His body is the instrument.
i just started to play again, and i am going through the ABC's. Learning the notes across the fretboard, learning the major scales and the six chords of it, the 1,4,5 being major, the 2,3,6 being minor. I even started playing a few pentatonic scales. So far it has been a little boring, but I have goals to become a great guitarist, and think I have to do this boring stuff to understand the instrument. I bet one day it will all click, and going through this intro phase will pay off. But being an artist of various mediums throughout my life, I can see immediately the creativity inherent in the instrument. There principles to how it works, but at the end of the day, you can play whatever the hell you want. there really are no rules. thats why i love art. best way to express yourself in the world.
This arty farty nonsense there really are no rules. No, there really are rules. And if your guitar playing is some arty no rules free form crap I'm going to throw you under the amp. Dark Side Of The Moon sold big but I'll take Livin On A Prayer - a song that follows every rule of turning your brain into a napalm rockgasm.
It's a form of narrow-minded snobbery - oh, I'm only going to learn as little as possible and get my arty farty to do the rest. Please!! I compose a bit on the piano and I'll use whatever help I can get from anywhere - that's why I'll watch Slash or a technical video. Or any video. When people say there are no rules it's like an inmate that can't see a prison - ha.
Stop over theorying. The only rule you need to follow is frequent regular practice. That's it. It's the only rule.
I find a lot of wisdom in his approach. It has taken me forever to apply scales to music...finally I crossed some barrier and can pick out some tunes with my eyes closed. Even a no talent guy can possess this wonderful thing about music. 50 years of work and I have only just crossed this barrier.
Lol, what the fuck are you talking about, what wisdom is there? He basically just babbles for a couple of minutes, plays some note virtuoso style and everybody is like kissing his ass. Meanwhile, he doesn't really know what he fucking is talking about and there is nothing to learn from this needless video. Wisdom my ass...
@@whiterottenrabbit slash - millions of records sold, an inspiration for hundreds of guitar players, and part of one of the greatest bands in history (depending who you ask)
Whiterottenrabbit - a CZcams comment
Unlike the dumbass in the first comment, I totally agree with you
@@whiterottenrabbit music means different things to different people, you might not learn anything from this video, but honestly you probably won't learn anything from watching a badminton or table tennis match either, while people that have an eye for it will pick up on subtle details, and might apply it to their own playing
Slash knows way more theory that people think. I think he's trying to explain it to a broader audience of guitar players, who didn't learn a lot of theory. Like me. This is beautiful
Theory is bullshit... is what Slash is saying here
This is what differentiates Slash from other guitarists. His solos don't sound 'technical'. They have soul. You can be very technical with extensive knowledge of all the scales but if you don't have the real talent of creating music with your guitar you'll just be another guy with fast fingers who can walk the neck down and up. That is why November Rain is still one of the songs that have the greatest guitar solos of all time. And most of the GNR songs really. Just listen to the guitar solos. Each guitar solo is like a song itself. Not technical sounding but has real heart.
Took absolutely nothing away from this.
I did. He plays a lot by feel but you can see he's brought his theory up past a certain level and he knows he could go further but what he really wants is to express that rock vibe and that's what he does really well with a lot of interesting extra bits thrown in. but he stays in that rock vibe. He's not going for a Via stlye or jazz theory or what not. He shows he knows all the scales up different positions. Like for me it's been enough to know what notes im playing on the bass notes and I can quickly see octaves and shapes based off all the bass notes. but i've never had any use to learn all the notes all the way up the neck. but that exercise to know a part of a scale then do the exact same scale like a tone and half up the neck and keep going all the way could be a really good exercise for improv. I'm gonna have a look at that. also the way he's looking at scales/ soloing over chords and connecting the different accents in the chord (like 6th/11ths 7, 9 etc) is interesting to look at studying how to do that right up into all the high notes. I've been a working rock/ folk muso (self taught) for a couple decades but I've only really got into more jazz chord theory in the past 24months. I've learnt the jazz chords that I can use but knowing that further for lead playing is inspiring to me. The thing is there's lots of guys who might know how to read and play like machines but it's what you can intuitively create with music is where the real thrill for a lot of songwriters and improvisers. 'slash' clearly gets that and is an exceptional player but is still down to earth about the theory side.. I mean just listen to what he's doing in the crescendo of Paradise City. it's off the chain! (but it's theoretically a really simple song)
You'd say that if you read his book too
When you realize that slash playing scales also sounds cool
I like how he approaches guitar scales. The creative side of playing is more important than the technical side.
One of the best guitar players I know, who has toured with bands in and around Nashville and east US, has no idea what I mean when I mention the pentatonic scale. Has learned everything completely by ear his entire life and would blow your mind.
Wow, what’s his name???
Just because you can’t clearly articulate and explain theory, doesn’t mean you aren’t using it. From what I gather he seems to be trying to describe the difference between the minor pentatonic scale and the major pentatonic scale. Look, I don't want to be negative or anything but being inarticulate about something doesn't make you more 'real' or 'genuine'. It just make you difficult to understand and that unclarity is actually not very helpful to those less experienced than you.
yeah but he doesnt say he isnt using theory he says he doesnt know what theory is
I keep it simple stupid. I just make sure I know it's major minor or something else. I can play the something else but even in slower songs a lot happens in a second so I'd be deconstructing the chord . So I call the ones I don't know all names for smelly chords
. It's sounds stupid. But if something sounds wrong I know it's wrong that's the key. I understand the fret board more than theory . But it's from being self taught and watching guys like slash. Kind of paint by numbers to be fair
Would like to be able to word it better . That's the guitar tho that's the fun always knowing you can learn more and making sure you look for the wall and don't rest on what you can do. That's something I'm guilty off quite a lot 🤟✌️
Exactly @jonRboy
Hell, I could speak english pretty damn well until I took a grammar class and then I didn't know shit. But I still knew how to talk.
Most of the best guitarists don't have in depth theory. They have feeling, soul and a knack for the instrument that just comes somewhat naturally to there ears.
I’ve got the Slash Series Les Paul recently and I’m just improvising lead guitar and posting my videos (improvised solo over November Rain backing track yesterday!) 👊🤠🎸
Thank you Slash for an AMAZING sounding guitar as well as confirmation of the importance of keeping things extremely simple thinking musically and rhythmically above complex theory. Love it!
👊🤠🎸
It is not how much you know but what you can do with what you know.
Slash: Plays a C.
Me: Plays a C but its a half step sharp.
So this is the difference between a man and a god.
He never learned theory but after all the years he just absorbed everything and actually learned theory lol
"That's a third...no a fourth....I'm sorry. I count the notes in the millions of dollars, so sometimes I'm a little off."
I remember MAKING my mother buy me this issue of Guitar World Mag. JUST for this damn DVD/CD lesson 😅😅 here I am like 17 years later watching it for free on the internet.
I love the comments. Notice how since Slash doesn't really know all the technical ins and outs of what he does everyone else feels the need to show their immense knowledge and try and break it down. And while they're doing that Slash is selling out Stadiums around the world. lol
Everyone that hates on him does so from a perspective of amazement. It's truly a wonder how someone so untalented can become so famous, really makes you think about the music industry.
bandit7498 the fact that he is selling stadiums around the world and knowledge of music theory have nothing in common. The fact that he is making lots of money doesn't imply that he knows more music theory than the guys in this comment section. Your logic has got big flaws, mate.
LER iz mor No flaws what so ever. Read what I said son. I said all these folks sitting at home trying to break down what he's doing because he doesn't even know. They're bashing Slash because he's not a theorist while he's out selling out stadiums around the world. I was pretty clear in my statement. People that LISTEN to music could give two shits about the theory behind it. If it moves them they're happy. I'm a musician so I'm not saying some knowledge of theory isn't useful. My point is all these saps sitting here thinking they're somehow better than him because they have more theory than he does, when in the overall scheme of things no one really gives a fuck. The dude makes music that people like. He has a sound that people like. Doesn't matter if he understands it on a technical level. If it works it works. Mate.
Mate, would you just shut the fuck up already? Just about every comment from the top down has had you trolling Slash in it at some point. We get it. You think he's overrated. I'm not the biggest fan either, but I think he's a cool guy and I enjoyed watching the vid. Your incessant commenting is not constructive, and makes you sound like an absolute toss-pot. How about you take your negative attitude and fuck off to Guitar Center.
bandit7498 😂 right
That very last lick gave off major Stairway vibes
heard that too lol
Cus that lick off stairway is literally just going through the pentatonic scale, but im sure he also knew he was playing it
So many funny gems in this. "One thing I do go for is obviously the rock sound". LOL!
he played the stairway to heaven solo intro lick at the end- his influences😍
Slash: so... there is this scale . You know what I mean right?
No slash we don’t know what you mean😭
He asks the cameraman “you know what I mean right” lol I would have been like hellll no!
He explained that like: "How to draw an owl. Step one: Draw a circle. Step two: draw the rest of the fkn owl." 🤣😂
I love how he slips in a piece of the stairway solo at the end lol
“Every kid has a book of scales”
My life is a lie....... never thought these existed I had to memorize them by head and take a video of my friend going through the scale to learn it 😂😂😂😂😂
I just never bought one because it was too expensive.
Some guitarists are great , but not creative, whereas others may not be so great, but are extremely creative.
I'm in the creative camp. Just need to polish the technical side and I'll be off and running
The really technical musicians end up working in guitar centers and rolling their eyes at the idiot customers.
I have never been so inspired in my life. AWESOME DOOODE!!!!!!!!
- Slash, what's your favourite pentatonic scale?
- Yes
I my humble opinion Slash is a truly great rock guitarist
He looks like the guitarist from guns and roses
That was awesome at the end he went from Dorian to Aeolian and he’s like it sounds weird having that six there on Dorian laughing my ass off he’s so good
always learning gotta love that ya get a private lesson for free
That last lick sounding like the intro to stairway to heaven solo !!
Totally influenced by page !
Just a generic pentatonic scale mate, nothing special about it
+Shylock Hymie Shekelstein unless he intentionally played Stairway....
sjeverett75 Yep. Unless that. And i think he meant it.
Same line, different key, but yeah, he's certainly influenced by Page. I think his playing is cleaner than Page's, though. That's not to say anything about Page's creativity or innovation. Just saying Slash's playing is a bit more crisp.
Yep, he knows exactly what he's doing (although he's definitely playing it down a lot here to keep the 'effortless myth' alive). The cool thing is that he has obviously never let the 'theory' get in the way of the 'music'.
Ay up Stoke lad!
With many blessings to you and all whom you love. Regards AJ, Stoke, England.
"I'm not a theory guy" Yeah ok Slash
Where's the full interview to this ?
Reminds me of when I once asked a guitar instructor in college if there were any good exercise gadgets or techniques to strengthen my hand for guitar playing and he said "sure, practice guitar."
You are the rocken roll guitar God... very true to your form. It real is simple stuff. What i like about my bro is ....he is so real. i can't help but think my buddy he is going to be playing in my band in L.A. this summer. When you tap into the source it is endless. This bad boy is at the root of it all.
I honestly think it’s all about the hat. Get the hat everything else falls in line. Theory, tone, counterpoint, song structure, diminished scales, flat nines ... the hat clarifies it all.
I think it’s about wearing sunglasses inside. Wear them inside and then when you see the fretboard it transcribes the scales into tablature
Absolutely confusing as hell.
it's not actually
yes actually it is.
Makes total sense to me. Flat six for real minor stuff. Otherwise leave it out.
I felt like Ozzy Osbourne just tried to teach me guitar theory.
LOL! Slash is so bomb, what else did I get out of this? The sly way he tucked his pick away at 2:30 so he could finger pluck, then brings it back a few seconds later.
He's been doing it for so long that the guitar and his body become one.
A lot of rockers seem to thinks it"s "uncool" to admit they know theory.
Slash isn't much of a theory guy, but he sure can play. In the end, that's all that matters. He's a rich and successful pro while the PHD music majors are flippin' burgers.
Yeah man you said it. Money and fame is what its all about!!1!
Not to mention PHD music majors had to study a syllabus to play "in the style of Slash"
Only that music majors are much more musicians than this guy. And I'm saying this as a huge Slash fan...
@@TheRealCowlick Im a major Slash fan, but i do sometimes think that maybe hes not better than the rest but GOD is he badass
I assure you, if somebody has a degree in music they are not flipping burgers. They are most likely teaching music, working as a session player, playing for a symphony or some other type of classical ensemble (and those musicians get paid very well)...nobody with a phd is flipping burgers.
Splinded sire!! Splendid!!
Slash rocks!! Great hat..
When he says "steve"...Vai?
I didn't quite catch - did Slash mention Steve Vai as his mentor (scales) or another person?
Same question
I believe he is talking about Steve Lukather, they are good friends.
Slash my top 3 Favorite Guitarist, self taught, and an icon.
This is the most comprehensive lesson on scales and improvisation and also how to play scales and arpeggios and form entire chords. On a personal note I hate that hat so much and as someone who sucks at guitar daily I want to just beat him up so badly
Did Slash just sweep pick around 2:08? And why didn't he talk about the Modes?
+Oliver Oliver Not sweep picking, just playing an arpeggio
Because he doesn't know shit about basic music theory, let alone modes. He just goes for the rock sound, with a sixth o a seventh, you know what I mean?
*gasp*...he broke the 'No playing Stairway to Heaven' code which we are all obliged to abide by @ 3:09!!
I guess him we can forgive :)
That was a good catch, it went by very quickly. :)
It's one of the few songs he knows though, he stopped progressing when he was 19
Riber Torbet Lol. That's too true.
Joan Smythe I'd kill to hear him play that whole song.
I never had a book of scales laying around when I was a child.
I just seen Slash Australia video concert on tv and holy cow his playing style is no other on this planet then he goes into heavy blues off the guitar body 🤘🎸🤘... I can see how Slash makes other guitarists jealous ..
I always found this guy I think he's a very good lead guitarist but when he starts his solos he never quits
Lol 😆
He’s just born with it ☹️. I wish I could play guitar, I’m too old.
that's the biggest lie I've heard all month
Bend, vibrato and timing I guess.
willie nelson doesn't agree with you and neither do I. never too old to strum a guitar.
If you can comment on YT, you can play guitar. 🤪
Love the description for this video
When he starts playing I immediately love his tone. Most guitar teachers on youtube have waaaay to much distortion and when they show a phrase/lick/scale every fucking note they end on they use ridiculous amounts of vibrato with their finger and then slide down the neck, completely unaware that it makes them look like a complete tool.