6 Easy Steps to Master "Crazy Train" on Guitar

Crazy Train Guitar Lesson
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Get ready to shred like a legend and embark on a musical journey with Ozzy Osbourne’s iconic anthem, “Crazy Train.” Its distinctive guitar riffs have captivated generations of rock enthusiasts, and now, it’s your turn to conquer this guitar masterpiece. Whether you’re a seasoned musician or a budding guitarist eager to expand your repertoire, this comprehensive guide will equip you with the essential techniques and knowledge to master the “Crazy Train” guitar solo.

The “Crazy Train” guitar solo is an electrifying display of pentatonic scales, double stops, and aggressive string bending. It demands precision, speed, and a deep understanding of the guitar fretboard. However, with dedication and the right approach, you can break down this seemingly complex solo into manageable parts and conquer it step by step. This guide will take you through the key techniques, including the iconic opening riff, the fast-paced pentatonic runs, and the signature double stops that give the solo its distinct character.

Furthermore, we’ll provide valuable tips on practicing effectively, developing your picking technique, and building up the stamina necessary to execute the solo seamlessly. Whether you’re a beginner or an advanced guitarist, this guide is designed to cater to all skill levels. So, pick up your guitar, tune in to the legendary sounds of Ozzy Osbourne, and let’s embark on the thrilling adventure of mastering the “Crazy Train” guitar solo.

Tuning the Guitar

To start playing Crazy Train, you must first tune your guitar. Here’s a step-by-step guide:

1. Use an electronic tuner:

This is the most accurate and convenient method. Connect the tuner to your guitar’s output jack or use a microphone. The tuner will indicate the note you’re playing and guide you in adjusting the string until it matches the target pitch.

2. Tune by ear using harmonic reference notes:

If you don’t have a tuner, you can tune your guitar by ear using harmonics. Gently touch the string at the 12th fret and pluck it. This produces a harmonic at the string’s octave. Compare the harmonic to the appropriate reference note on a piano or another tuned instrument.

3. Fine-tune the strings:

After getting the strings in approximate pitch, fine-tune them by ear. Pluck two adjacent strings and adjust one until they sound consonant. Use the table below as a guide for the proper tuning:

String	Note
6th	E (low)
5th	A
4th	D
3rd	G
2nd	B
1st	E (high)

Basic Chords

To play "Crazy Train" on guitar, you’ll need to know the following basic chords:

E minor (Em): 022000
G major (G): 320033
C major (C): 032010
D major (D): xx0232

Strumming Pattern

The strumming pattern for "Crazy Train" is as follows:

Down || Up || Down || Down || Up || Down ||

To play this pattern, start by strumming down on the first beat. Then, strum up on the second beat. Strum down on the third beat, and then down again on the fourth beat. Finally, strum up on the fifth beat and down on the sixth beat.

The strumming pattern can be varied to create different effects. For example, you can try strumming down on all six beats or up on all six beats.

You can also add some variation to the strumming pattern by using different strumming techniques. For example, you can try using a pick or your fingers to strum the strings.

Here is a table that summarizes the strumming pattern for “Crazy Train”:

Beat	Strum
1	Down
2	Up
3	Down
4	Down
5	Up
6	Down

Intro Riff

The iconic intro riff of Crazy Train is immediately recognizable and surprisingly simple to play. It consists of two parts: an open E chord and an E5 power chord.

To play the open E chord, simply place your index finger on the first fret of the second string, your middle finger on the second fret of the fourth string, and your ring finger on the second fret of the fifth string. Strum all six strings.

To play the E5 power chord, place your index finger on the second fret of the sixth string, your middle finger on the second fret of the fifth string, and your ring finger on the second fret of the third string. Strum the top three strings (fourth, fifth, and sixth).

The intro riff alternates between these two chords. Start with the open E chord, then play the E5 power chord twice. Repeat this pattern for the rest of the intro.

Chord	Fingering
Open E	122100
E5 power chord	222000

Verse Chords and Melody

The intro and verse share the same set of chords in a simple four-chord progression. The rhythm is straight eighth notes with a subtle syncopation on the “one” and “three” beats. The chords and melody are:

	Chords	Melody
1	Am	—0—
2	C	——-3–
3	G	—0—
4	F	—1—

The verse melody is played in the sixteenth notes with the following pattern:

	16th notes
1	x-x-x-x-
2	x-x-x-x-
3	x-x-x-x-
4	x-x-x-x-

The “-” denotes a muted note, while “x” denotes a picked note. The melody is a descending trill on the open A string.

Chorus Chords and Melody

The chorus of “Crazy Train” features a simple but effective chord progression that consists of only four chords: Am, C, G, and D. These chords are played in a steady eighth-note rhythm, with the emphasis on the downbeats. The melody of the chorus is also relatively simple, consisting of a series of descending notes that are repeated over each chord.

Verse 1 Chords and Melody

The verse 1 of “Crazy Train” follows a similar chord progression to the chorus, but it adds a few additional chords, including F and Gm. The melody of the verse is also more complex than the chorus, featuring a number of different melodic phrases.

Verse 2 Chords and Melody

The verse 2 of “Crazy Train” features a slightly different chord progression than the first verse, adding a Bb chord. The melody of the second verse is also more complex, featuring a number of different melodic phrases.

Bridge Chords and Melody

The bridge of “Crazy Train” features a more complex chord progression that includes a number of different chords, including Fmaj7, Fm, and Dm. The melody of the bridge is also more complex, featuring a number of different melodic phrases.

Solo

The solo in “Crazy Train” is one of the most iconic guitar solos in rock history. It features a number of different techniques, including alternate picking, legato, and tapping. The solo is also very melodic, with a number of different melodic phrases.

Bridge Transition

The bridge transition, the flamboyant heart of “Crazy Train,” where the acoustic guitar unleashes its thunder, is a moment of electrifying transformation that demands precision and cohesion between players. To master this transition, follow these steps:

Prepare the Acoustic Guitar: Ensure the acoustic guitar is in tune and amplified, providing a crisp and clear sound.
Lead Guitar Cue: The lead guitar initiates the transition with a soaring high note. This cue signals the acoustic guitarist to come in.
Acoustic Guitar Entry: The acoustic guitar enters with a forceful downstroke on the D chord, followed by a rapid strumming pattern.
Bridge Chords: The acoustic guitar plays an intricate sequence of chords over the next two bars, D, G, A, and back to D.
Syncopated Strums: The acoustic guitar strums with a syncopated rhythm, creating a driving and energetic feel.
Acoustic and Electric Guitar Interplay: The acoustic and electric guitars weave together a tapestry of sound, with the electric guitar providing soaring solos and the acoustic guitar grounding the harmony.

Key Elements of the Acoustic Guitar Bridge
Precise and Powerful Downstrokes Rapid Strumming Pattern Syncopated Rhythms Interplay with Electric Guitar Solos

Bridge Chords and Riffs

The bridge of “Crazy Train” features a series of iconic riffs and chords that build tension and energy.

Bridge Chords

The bridge begins with the following chord progression:

Chord	Notes
F5	(033xxx)
G5	(3220xx)
C5	(x32010)

These chords create a dramatic shift from the open A chord used throughout the rest of the song.

Bridge Riffs

The bridge also incorporates a series of distinctive riffs that add rhythmic complexity and intensity.

Verse 1 Riff: This riff is played over the F5 chord and consists of two quick bends on the 1st string.
Break Riff: After the first F5 chord, a syncopated riff is played on the 2nd and 3rd strings, leading into the G5 chord.
Chorus Riff: This riff is played over the C5 chord and features a series of hammer-ons and pull-offs on the 3rd and 4th strings.

These riffs combine with the bridge chords to create a powerful and memorable section of the song.

Solo Section

The solo section of Crazy Train is iconic and one of the most recognizable guitar solos in rock history. It’s a powerful and emotional piece of playing that showcases Randy Rhoads’ incredible talent. The solo is divided into two main parts:

The first part is a fast and furious series of pentatonic scale runs and arpeggios. Rhoads uses a variety of picking techniques, including alternate picking, sweep picking, and tapping, to create a sense of urgency and excitement.
The second part of the solo is a more melodic and sustained section. Rhoads plays a series of legato phrases and harmonics that build to a climax before ending on a dramatic bend.

Techniques Used in the Solo

Here is a breakdown of some of the techniques that Rhoads used in the Crazy Train solo:

Technique	Description
Alternate picking	Picking the strings with alternating downstrokes and upstrokes
Sweep picking	Picking multiple strings in a single motion
Tapping	Using the left hand to tap the strings on the fretboard
Legato	Playing notes smoothly and connectedly
Harmonics	Playing notes that are a higher octave than the open string
Bending	Raising or lowering the pitch of a note by pushing or pulling the string

By combining these techniques, Rhoads created a guitar solo that is both technically impressive and emotionally powerful.

Outro Chords and Fade

The iconic outro of “Crazy Train” features a powerful guitar solo and a series of fade-out chords. Here’s a detailed breakdown of how to play them:

Power Chord Outro

After the solo, the song shifts to a sequence of power chords:

Chord	Fingering
E5	077xxx
C5	x3555x
G5	3x55xx
D5	xx0232
A5	00765x

Repeat this chord progression until the next section.

Barre Chord Outro

Next, the song transitions to a series of barre chords:

Chord	Fingering
F#m	244222
A	002220
D	xx0232
G	320003
B	x24442

Repeat this chord progression until the song fades out.

Fade-Out Chords

As the song fades out, the chords become increasingly distorted and reverberant. The following chords are typically used:

Chord	Fingering
F#m	244222
A	002220
D	xx0232
G	320003
B	x24442

Hold each chord for several seconds, allowing the distortion and reverb to build, before transitioning to the next.

Practice Tips

1. Slow It Down

Start by practicing at a slow tempo. Gradually increase the speed as you become more comfortable playing the song.

2. Focus on Timing

Crazy Train has a specific rhythm and timing. Use a metronome to practice staying on beat.

3. Practice the Intro

The intro riff is one of the most iconic parts of the song. Spend time practicing this section slowly and accurately.

4. Work on the Chords

The verses and choruses of Crazy Train feature power chords. Practice transitioning between these chords smoothly.

5. Master the Solo

The solo in Crazy Train is a challenging but rewarding part to play. Break it down into smaller sections and practice slowly.

6. Use a Tuner

Make sure your guitar is in tune before playing Crazy Train. This will ensure you’re hitting the right notes.

7. Learn the Fingerings

Familiarize yourself with the fingerings for each chord and riff in Crazy Train. This will help you play them cleanly and accurately.

8. Practice with a Drum Track

Playing along with a drum track can help you improve your timing and rhythm. Find a backing track online or use a drumming app.

9. Listen to the Original

Listen to the original recording of Crazy Train repeatedly. This will help you get a better understanding of the song’s structure and nuances.

10. Practice Regularly

The key to mastering Crazy Train on guitar is consistent practice. Set aside time each day to work on the song and gradually improve your skills. Here are some specific practice guidelines to help you focus your efforts:

Practice Time	Focus
10-15 minutes	Intro riff and transitions
10-15 minutes	Verse chords and timing
10-15 minutes	Chorus chords and fingerings
10-15 minutes	Solo section (break into smaller parts)
10-15 minutes	Play the full song with backing track

How to Play Crazy Train on Guitar

Released in 1980, “Crazy Train” by Ozzy Osbourne is one of the most iconic hard rock anthems of all time. Its catchy riffs and powerful vocals have made it a favorite among guitarists for decades. If you’re a beginner or an experienced player, here’s a step-by-step guide on how to play “Crazy Train” on guitar:

Tune your guitar to standard tuning (E-A-D-G-B-E).
Play the main riff. The main riff is a simple but catchy 4-note pattern played on the 5th, 7th, 9th, and 10th frets of the A string. The rhythm is: down-up-down-up.
Add the palm muting. To palm mute, place the edge of your picking hand close to the bridge. This will create a percussive sound when you strum down on the strings.
Play the outro solo. The outro solo is a melodic and shreddy section that ends the song. It’s not necessary to learn the solo for beginners, but it’s a fun challenge for experienced players.

6 Easy Steps to Master “Crazy Train” on Guitar