How to Build a Guitar Solo with Licks – Step by Step

·22 min·2 clips

Lee reveals how to transform 10-20 random licks into a solo that tells a story and sounds intentional.

The episode begins with host Lee addressing a common problem: guitarists have a collection of licks but struggle to assemble them into a coherent solo. He promises a method to create solos that feel natural and tell a story. Lee explains he produces two weekly content pieces: a lesson video with tablature and this audio-focused podcast for mindset and learning. He references a recent lesson video where he modified a single lick through five techniques: altering rhythms, adding vocal-like phrasing, changing notes with passing tones, flipping the lick order, and adjusting note durations. The core topic shifts to building a full solo. Lee discusses the purpose of a guitar solo, typically placed 60-70% into a song to re-engage listeners. He stresses the importance of direction, such as building energy from low to high. Using a G-D-A chord progression, he improvises a solo demo, starting with a simple four-note major pentatonic lick in pattern one. He then moves to pattern two, incorporating a Chuck Berry-inspired lick with slides. Next, he uses the BB King box for bending and soaring notes, reaching a higher octave. He revisits the initial lick up an octave, slightly modified, and ends with a strong finish mimicking earlier patterns. Lee analyzes iconic solos from Slash and Brian May, pondering their construction. He delves into the concept of a hook, comparing it to marketing tactics, and identifies elements like staccato notes and syncopation. He structures a solo into three parts: a hook or signature lick, a cohesive middle section with bending notes, and a memorable finish. For practical application, Lee advises listeners to record themselves to identify personal licks they repeat, suggesting cataloging them with simple names. He encourages intermediate players to view these licks as raw materials to arrange and modify. The episode concludes with a reminder about a free scale pattern worksheet and promotions for his academy and live sessions.

As heard by us

A practical lesson in shaping familiar licks into a solo with movement and intent.

The Play Guitar Podcast frames soloing as arrangement work, with Lee showing how familiar licks can become a shaped musical statement through placement, repetition, register, and small variation.

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Why you'd press play

You have a handful of licks and every solo keeps circling the same block. Press play for a more intentional way out.

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