Unit 4: Build Your Solo

The Jam Track

First up, let's guide you through the backing track that we are working over for this course. It's essentially in the key of D Mixolydian... Got that?! So, let's talk about that quickly. The chord chart is as follows:

Check out the tab as well to see exactly how we play through these chords across each bar. Coming back to the theory, essentially, we are using a D, C and G powerchord. This could fit into a lot of keys, thanks to the powerchord element, but D definitely feels like the root and centre of the key. So, with D being the tonal centre, and us using G, C and D... This fits into the key of G major, where D is the fifth degree. Therefore, and hopefully, this is making some sense, we think of this as D Mixolydian as that is the 5th degree of the G major. Lovely stuff!

...so, which scales?

Great question! Instead of using the D Mixolydian scale, we'll use the classic D major and minor pentatonic scale crossover. This is the best way to bring out those classic Angus Young and ACDC sounds! We've given an example of these two scales, using just shape 1 and 2. Before you get cracking with the next lessons, be sure you can play the backing track and have a little go with the scale shapes here!

Lick 1 & 2

Ok, so let's get into a few licks that you'll be working with as you construct your own solo! Both these licks utilise the major and minor pentatonic crossover. As you work through the video and the lick, be sure to visualise the necessary scale shapes and focus on the timing of the lick against the backing track. Good luck!

Lick 3 & 4

Here are the final licks that you'll be working with as you construct your own solo! Both these licks utilise the major and minor pentatonic crossover. As you work through the video and the lick, be sure to visualise the necessary scale shapes and focus on the timing of the lick against the backing track. Good luck!

Getting Creative

Ok, it's now time to start getting creative! During the video lesson, Dan uses the 4 licks as a guide to piece together a full Angus Young style solo. Once you've watched this video, it's your turn to give it a go! Here is a helpful checklist to help guide you in the process:

Start slow & pace yourself

Angus young loves to start lower down the neck and gradually work up towards the higher notes. This is a great strategy that works every time!

Use major and minor

Use these two scales types to differentiate between sweeter sounding licks and more aggressive style licks.

Keep up the groove

It's so important that we retain the foot-tapping magic that keeps the solos so rhythmical as we put this masterpiece together!

Have some fun with this one guys! Take Dan's lead and don't be afraid to make mistakes; just go for it! You can re-write it as many times as you want as well!

Now Your Turn!

That's it! You've managed to get through the entire course, and now you have a BIG task on your hands. Take Dan's concepts and teachings and turn them into your very own Angus Young style solo! We'd absolutely love to hear how you guys get on with these, so be sure to tag us on Instagram (search YGA or Your Guitar Academy) as well as send in your videos to our email or any other social media platforms! We can't wait to hear from you and good luck!