House of the Rising Sun

Introduction

When I started to write an introduction to this song, I started to wonder if the song needed any introduction at all. The song was written by Gary Burton and the Animals about 1964, and some say that it was the first rock song.. Technically, it is a great song for guitarists who are far enough along so that the first position chord shapes are mastered. As far as finger style goes, working with familiar chords really helps you focus on Right Hand technique.

Chord Shapes

Tab Shot

Hard Spots (technique)

The technical difficulties really start with the variations on the main theme, which include runs, some arpeggios and a section in the upper range of the guitar neck. The most demanding section uses the following chords:

Start by strumming the chords in order, until you can change the basic shapes smoothly. This is important because looking at the tabs you can see that there are some accent notes that are played over the chords. Once you have the basic forms mastered, use the 'fingers down" technique to play the root tone and the accent notes (thumb only).

Full Lead sheet (TABS)

When I teach this song, I repeat only the first page. The second page includes variations and a few runs - great for practice!