There’s a certain feeling that only classic rock can capture. In this lesson, Mike Olekshy dives into that exact feeling with an original tune inspired by artists like Joe Walsh, Led Zeppelin, and Montrose. The result is a track that blends blues-based rock guitar with funky rhythmic elements, syncopated grooves, and chromatic movement to create something that feels instantly familiar while remaining uniquely its own.

Drawing inspiration from legendary bands like Black Sabbath, Deep Purple, and Uriah Heep, Mike Olekshy explores what makes classic doom riffs feel so massive, ominous, and hypnotic. This isn’t about modern precision metal or ultra-tight high-gain rhythm playing. Quite the opposite.

Today we’re breaking down a riff inspired by Jack White’s signature rock style. This riff is super fun to play, combining single notes, pull-offs, and power chord strums. Plus, it’s a great chance to experiment with your tone by adding fuzz and pitch octave effects.

If you're a fan of the sound of an acoustic guitar, then you're probably listening to a song that features two guitarists playing together seamlessly. Various models on the market can accommodate different budgets. With various features and options, 12-string acoustic guitars can provide a unique and authentic sound. The sound of 12-string electric and acoustic guitars has captivated listeners for decades. Whether you're looking for an electric or acoustic guitar, there's something special about this versatile instrument.

When we stop to consider the challenges that face us as a people, rarely, if ever, do we count lefties among the disadvantaged. But southpaws, those 10% of the population who are left-handed, live in a world that caters to the right-handed. Things like spiral notebooks, scissors, car radios, computer keyboards, and handheld can openers are all designed with a right-hand bias. So are things like guitars.

The playing style of guitar legend Jimi Hendrix has been analyzed quite a bit over the years, and as a result, there's a huge list of things you can do to replicate his distinctive guitar playing. However, you should always start with the following 5 core concepts that are absolutely fundamental to his playing.

Extremely prolific, and regarded as one of the best songwriters of all-time, Bob Dylan has been a commanding influence in the music world, and pop culture in general, since the early 1960s. His work is deeply personal, yet anyone can relate to it. With themes surrounding civil rights and the anti-war movement, many of his classic songs are now more relevant than ever. With a troubador-like singer-songwriter feel, many of his songs are quite simple to learn and get comfortable playing quickly, making them perfect for beginner-to-intermediate guitarists looking to get their sea legs playing some iconic folk tunes.

With countless songs of sorrow and redemption -- all sung with a deep baritone voice and a trusty 6-string dreadnought -- Johnny Cash, aka "The Man in Black" was one of the genre-bending kings of country, rock and roll and gospel. Johnny Cash songs run the gamut, from classic country tunes like "I Walk the Line" and "Ring of Fire" to some of his later covers of contemporary heavy-hitters like Nine Inch Nails, Depeche Mode and Soundgarden. 

We've hand-picked some of our favorite Johnny Cash songs that guitarists of all experience levels can enjoy learning.

One of the original purveyors of rock and roll, The Rolling Stones pioneered the overdriven sound that catapulted the blues into a new, exciting era and genre. Heralded by many as the "greatest rock and roll band in the world," their deep catalog of records have topped worldwide charts for half a century. At the heart of The Rolling Stones' influential sound is the songwriting team of Keith Richards and Mick Jagger. Their compositions, often blending pop, blues, and rock are among the most recognizable tunes in history. We've hand-picked a few Rolling Stones songs that guitar players of all levels can enjoy learning!

A staple on American radio waves for the past 50 years, Eagles are synonymous with rock music. Their songs have dominated the charts for the duration of their career, sending "Their Greatest Hits" to the number one best-selling album in the United States. The centerpiece of their signature sound, aside from ear-pleasing vocal melodies and harmonies, is the complementary guitar stylings of Glenn Frey, Don Henley, Joe Walsh, Bernie Leadon, and Don Felder -- all of whom contributed their own unique skills to the band throughout the years. 

Bob Dylan is one of music’s greatest icons. Dylan made a name for himself writing songs that were politically and socially charged since the early 1960s. His lyrics and music influenced the likes of The Beatles, Jimi Hendrix, and more. He often accompanied his poetry with just a harmonica and an acoustic guitar. Let’s take a look at three of his greatest and most memorable songs.