Introduction to the November Rain Solo Guitar Course

“November Rain” is one of the tracks from the seminal Guns N Roses album ‘Use Your Illusion I’ and it has one of the most iconic electric guitar solos ever written. Featuring everything we’ve come to love and respect from Slash’s unique style that fuses blues, rock, and metal – bends, double stops, scale runs, slow moments, and fast moments – this solo has something for every guitarist.

Played on his Gibson 59 Les Paul (formerly owned by Aerosmith’s own Joe Perry) through a Marshall stack the sound is undeniably classic rock with a ton of sustain and pronounced mids (or is that sucked back highs and bass?).

Here are a few tips for nailing this solo:

• Improve those bends and their pitch perfect by listening carefully to the note(s) and pushing against your thumb
• Listen to Slash playing it to get a feel for his phrasing style
• Take note of the slides and portamentos and remember to look ahead when sliding and to pull-off or hammer-on clearly and decisively

Musical Style

Guns N’ Roses’ musical style is a blend of hard rock, blues, and punk influences, characterized by powerful vocals, gritty guitar riffs, and dynamic song structures. Their music often features dramatic contrasts, with songs that range from high-energy rock anthems to soulful ballads. The band’s ability to blend raw energy with melodic sensibility has earned them a lasting legacy in rock music. Guns N’ Roses is known for their powerful live performances and the charismatic presence of their lead guitarist, Slash, whose solos are integral to the band’s sound.

Notable Songs

Five notable songs by Guns N’ Roses:

• Don’t Cry

• Estranged

• Knockin’ on Heaven’s Door

• Paradise City

• Sweet Child O’ Mine

Let your fingers fly!

Josh