Understanding the Song: An Overview
"Rock This Town" is one of the signature songs of the Stray Cats, a band that emerged in the early 1980s, reviving the rockabilly genre that originated in the 1950s. The song features a catchy melody, upbeat rhythm, and a distinctive guitar riff that makes it instantly recognizable.
Historical Context
- Formation of the Stray Cats: Formed in 1980 in Long Island, New York, the band consisted of Brian Setzer (vocals and guitar), Lee Rocker (double bass), and Slim Jim Phantom (drums).
- Revival of Rockabilly: The Stray Cats played a crucial role in bringing rockabilly back into the mainstream music scene, influencing many contemporary artists.
- Chart Success: "Rock This Town" was released in 1981 and became a hit, reaching the top of the charts and solidifying the band’s reputation.
Musical Composition
- Key: The song is primarily in the key of A.
- Structure: It follows a classic verse-chorus structure, making it easy to learn.
- Tempo: The upbeat tempo of around 170 BPM gives it a lively feel that is perfect for dancing.
Gear and Setup for Playing "Rock This Town"
To get the right sound for "Rock This Town," you need to consider your gear and setup. Here are some recommendations:
Guitar
- Electric Guitar: A solid-body electric guitar is ideal for this song. A Fender Telecaster or a Gretsch guitar can replicate the rockabilly tone well.
- Pickups: Use single-coil pickups for a brighter sound, which is characteristic of rockabilly music.
Amplifier Settings
- Gain: Keep gain at a moderate level to avoid distortion.
- Bass: Set the bass around 5 to provide warmth.
- Mid: Increase the midrange to around 7 for prominence in the mix.
- Treble: Set treble high for brightness, around 7 or 8.
Learning the Guitar Tab for "Rock This Town"
Now that you have an understanding of the song and the gear needed, let’s dive into the guitar tab.
Intro and Main Riff
The intro riff is one of the most recognizable parts of the song. Here’s a simplified version of the tab:
```
e|-------------------------|
B|-------------------------|
G|-----1---1-----1---1-----|
D|--1-----1-1-1-----1-1-1--|
A|--1---3---3-3---3---3-3--|
E|-------------------------|
```
Verse Chords
The verse consists of a series of power chords. Here are the chords you will be playing:
- A5: 577xxx
- C5: x466xx
- B5: x244xx
- D5: x577xx
You can strum these chords using a consistent down-up pattern to maintain the song's rhythm.
Chorus Chords
The chorus follows a similar pattern, but with a slight variation in the progression. The chords are:
- A5: 577xxx
- D5: x577xx
- C5: x466xx
- B5: x244xx
Practice Techniques for "Rock This Town"
Mastering "Rock This Town" requires consistent practice. Here are some effective techniques to improve your skills:
Slow Practice
- Start playing the song at a slower tempo to grasp the nuances of the rhythms and transitions. Gradually increase the speed as you become more comfortable.
Use a Metronome
- Practicing with a metronome helps develop your timing and rhythm. Start at a slower BPM and work your way up to the song's original tempo.
Record Yourself
- Recording your practice sessions allows you to listen for mistakes and monitor your progress over time. This can be an invaluable tool for improvement.
Tips for Performing "Rock This Town"
Once you feel confident playing the song, you might want to perform it. Here are some tips to keep in mind:
Engage the Audience
- Rockabilly music is all about energy and fun. Make sure to engage with your audience by making eye contact and inviting them to dance along.
Incorporate Solos
- Feel free to add your twist to the song by incorporating solos or improvisation. This will give your performance a personal touch.
Join a Band or Jam Session
- Playing with other musicians can enhance your skills and make the experience more enjoyable. Look for local jam sessions or bands that focus on rockabilly music.
Conclusion
Learning to play "Rock This Town" is not just about mastering the guitar tab; it’s about embracing the rockabilly spirit and having fun. With the right gear, practice techniques, and performance tips, you can confidently play this iconic song and impress your friends and family. So grab your guitar, check out the tab, and start rocking this town!
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the best source for 'Rock This Town' guitar tabs?
The best sources for 'Rock This Town' guitar tabs include popular guitar tab websites like Ultimate Guitar, Songsterr, and official band websites where tabs are published.
Are there any video tutorials available for playing 'Rock This Town' on guitar?
Yes, there are numerous video tutorials available on platforms like YouTube that break down how to play 'Rock This Town' step by step, including chord progressions and techniques.
What tuning is used for 'Rock This Town' when playing on guitar?
'Rock This Town' is typically played in standard tuning (E A D G B e), which is the most common tuning for guitar music.
Can beginners learn 'Rock This Town' easily?
While 'Rock This Town' has some challenging sections, beginners can learn it with practice, especially by focusing on the main riff and using simplified tabs available online.
What are some common mistakes to avoid when playing 'Rock This Town' on guitar?
Common mistakes include rushing through the tempo, not paying attention to the dynamics, and skipping the essential techniques like palm muting and strumming patterns that give the song its character.
