Learn Johnny Be Goode by Chuck Berry • Guitar Lesson + Tutorial

Learn how to play one of the most famous guitar riffs of all time—Chuck Berry’s “Johnny B. Goode”!
In this lesson, I’m revisiting the classic tune and breaking it down step-by-step. I originally taught this song about 10 years ago, but figured it was time for a redo—with a little more detail, a few helpful corrections, and some higher definition for your eyeballs! ????

We’ll go over the legendary intro riff, the solo concepts, and that iconic Chuck Berry rhythm part. If you're into classic rock and blues guitar, this is a must-know jam to have in your back pocket.

???? Also—don’t forget to grab my FREE Ultimate Guitar Guide (chords, scales, arpeggios, triads & more!) right here: https://www.martymusic.com/the-ultimate-guitar-guide-ebook

Thanks for supporting Marty Music! Let me know in the comments what other classic tunes you’d like to see me break down.

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0:00 - Intro
1:15 - The 12-Bar Blues Structure in B♭
2:06 - Breaking Down the Iconic Intro Riff
3:40 - Why This Riff Works: Mixing Pentatonic and Mixolydian
5:39 - Adding the Hammer-Ons and Slides (That Chuck Berry Flavor!)
7:21 - Transition Into the Next Phrase
8:41 - The Classic Chuck Berry Bends and Double Stops
10:18 - How to Nail That Little Run (Closing the Intro)
13:03 - Connecting the Whole Intro Riff Together
15:30 - Playing the Rhythm Guitar Parts
17:04 - Using a Looper Pedal for Practice (Pro Tip!)
19:42 - Final Thoughts