Rockin Into The Night by 38 Special Chords & Tabs - Boycehead

Tabs Analysis for Guitar

1. Unique Features of the Tabs

This tabs presents a rich tapestry of guitar techniques that highlight the piece's character, particularly in measures 5 through 8. One of the most notable aspects is the use of hammer-ons (B3HC4) combined with pull-offs (B3PC4), which creates a fluid, legato sound essential to the piece's melodic line. In measures 6 and 7, the transition between these techniques emphasizes both speed and agility in performance, showcasing intricate finger patterns.

Additionally, the use of percussive elements (x) in measure 10 juxtaposes the melodic lines, adding rhythmic complexity and highlighting the dynamic contrast within the piece. The placement of slides (B3SC4) in measure 9 further emphasizes expressive nuances, guiding the performer through emotional phrasing.

2. Performance Challenges

The tabs contains several challenging sections, especially measures 6, 9, and 12. In measure 6, the rapid succession of hammer-ons and pull-offs requires precise finger placement and timing. A quantifiable challenge is evident; achieving a metronomic speed of 120 BPM may be difficult for intermediate players due to the dexterity required.

In measure 9, the slide technique (B3SC4) demands a smooth execution from the 7th to the 9th fret on the A string, which can be awkward for less experienced players. Additionally, measure 12 introduces a complex arpeggio pattern, demanding a heightened level of coordination between picking and fretting hands.

Suggested Solutions

To tackle these challenges:

• For measure 6: Practice the hammer-on and pull-off sequences slowly, gradually increasing speed. Focus on correctly positioning the fretting fingers to maintain clarity in notes.
• For measure 9: Isolate the slide, practicing it repeatedly to build muscle memory, ensuring that the transition is seamless without disruption.
• For measure 12: Break down the arpeggio into smaller parts, practicing each portion independently before reassembling into the full sequence.

3. Practice Recommendations

To effectively address the performance difficulties identified, here are tailored recommendations:

• Measure 6: Set a metronome at a slower tempo of around 80 BPM and practice the hammer-on/pull-off patterns, gradually increasing the tempo every few days as comfort increases. Focus on evenness in sound and dynamics to achieve a clean execution.

• Measure 9: Spend at least 10 minutes daily sliding between the frets. Use a mirror to check hand positioning and ensure that the slide is executed smoothly without lifting the hand too high off the fretboard.

• Measure 12: Divide the arpeggio into sections, practicing each finger's movement thoroughly. Use a fingerstyle approach when practicing, ensuring proper coordination between right and left hands. Incorporate a loop of a few measures preceding the arpeggio to smooth the transition into the challenging section.

Conclusion

This tabs offers an opportunity to enhance several guitar techniques, including legato execution, slides, and arpeggios. By targeting specific measures and employing thoughtful practice strategies, players can overcome the challenges posed by the piece, ultimately resulting in a polished and expressive execution. Balancing technical practice with musicality will enrich the performance and unlock the full potential of this composition.