So You Wanna Shred Like Jimmy Page? Mastering "Going to California" (without summoning demons)
Let's face it, folks, there's something undeniably magical about "Going to California." It's the soundtrack to road trips, campfires, and maybe even that time you accidentally wandered into a cult recruitment (hey, good vibes!). But here's the real question: how do you tap into that magic with your own two hands and six trusty strings? Well, fret no more (pun intended!), because this guide is about to turn you from a bedroom noodler into a California dreamin' guitar hero.
Step 1: Tuning Like a Titan (and Avoiding Explosions)
First things first, you gotta ditch the standard tuning. This song's all about that double dropped D tuning, which basically means your low E string and your high E string are both saying "deuces" and dropping down a whole octave. Don't worry, it's not a sign of string rebellion, it's just how Jimmy Page rolls (and how you'll get that deep, rumbling sound). Just be careful – if you tune too aggressively, you might unleash a sound that could shatter windows and summon your grumpy neighbor. You've been warned.
Step 2: Chords? We Don't Need No Stinking Chords (Okay, Maybe Two)
This is where things get beautiful. "Going to California" is all about simplicity. You basically just need two chords: a D power chord (which is like a regular D chord, but cooler because you only strum the bottom three strings) and a G7sus4 (don't worry, it sounds way less intimidating than it looks). Now, you can spend hours learning fancy fingerpicking patterns, but trust me, this song is all about that raw, driving rhythm. Just strum those two chords with gusto and feel the California sun on your face (even if you're actually in your basement).
Pro Tip: Want to add a little extra flavor? Throw in a hammer-on on the G string during the D chord. It's a subtle move, but it'll make you feel like a guitar-wielding wizard.
Step Step 3: The Solo: Conquering Jimmy Page's Mountain (or Just Going Around It)
Alright, let's be honest. Jimmy Page's solo in this song is legendary. It's got bends, it's got hammer-ons, it's got enough feeling to make even the most cynical person yearn for the West Coast. But fear not, grasshopper! You don't have to master it all at once. Here's the beauty: the solo mostly uses the same notes from the chords, just played on different parts of the fretboard. Start slow, pick out a few cool licks, and build your confidence. Remember, even Jimmy Page probably didn't shred like that on his first try (although, knowing him, he probably did).
Step 4: Unleashing Your Inner Californian (Without Leaving Your Couch)
Now that you've got the basics down, it's time to crank up the amp (figuratively, unless you want to get evicted) and blast out "Going to California." Close your eyes, picture the Pacific Coast Highway, feel the wind in your hair (or at least coming from your fan). This isn't just playing a song, it's a journey to a state of mind, a place where the music takes you higher (without the help of any questionable substances... probably).
So there you have it! With a little practice and a whole lot of California dreamin', you'll be playing "Going to California" like a pro. Remember, the most important thing is to have fun and unleash your inner rockstar. Now go forth and conquer, my friend, and may the California sun (or at least a decent lamp) always shine on your fretboard!
