Learn The Solo Guitar in "Gravity" by John Mayer!

Gravity is packed with tasty John Mayer solo guitar. And we should never expect any less from this guy! Let's look at how to play those solos and make them sound super authentic.

First, in case you missed the first part of this foray into Gravity, check out my lesson on the chords and rhythm parts. Second, before you even watch today's video lesson, give the solos a go on your own! ;)

Gravity by John Mayer: Learn the Solos by Ear

There’s so much more to music than notes. And though the notes in Gravity aren't too difficult to figure out, it has tons of subtleties that make a huge difference to the result.

Give the original track another listen and pay close attention to the slides and embellishments, which notes are played loud and soft, where he lingers, where he moves the melody along, and more. You can’t get this stuff from seeing the notes on a page, but you'll pick them up if you transcribe the original. I think you’ll be surprised by what you discover. ;)

🎸 Sing through your instrument: If you’ve ever wanted to hear a guitar sing, this song is a prime example. He uses lots of finesse in these solos. Though there's plenty for us to learn, feel free to express yourself through the instrument as you play this song, just like a singer would. :)

So, try transcribing these solos for yourself, then come back to this lesson and see how well you did!

Gravity by John Mayer: Intro Solo

This one ain't too difficult, but it takes some practice to nail John Mayer's feel. The count is also tricky - it's a 12:8 feel, and I think it's best you hear it out rather than counting beats. :) Jam with the original and pay attention to the chord changes.

It's important to note that he's got his amp up high and is playing delicately, which gives his sound a particular quality. Also make sure you use the palm of your fretting hand to mute the thicker strings, and mute with your fretting hand too.

You'll notice that he repeats the first phrase later on in the solo, showing us a crucial skill for lead playing. If you do this, you'll notice your solos and melodies sound awesome. Learn from the best!

Second Guitar Solo

There's some lovely slide work in the second solo in Gravity, and we slide high up the neck several times. When you do this, it's a good idea to stare at the note you want to hit. This makes it easier to stop your finger in time. :)

And when you're sliding a lot, make sure your strings are clean. If they're not, change 'em! Otherwise you'll wear out the skin on your fingertips.

💡 Feel It: Though this section is simple, the challenge is to make it sound delicate and sweet. Put some touch and emotion into your playing! :)

John Mayer also does an awesome harmonics trick. He plays harmonics at fret 12 then bends the string behind the nut to change the pitch of the harmonic. And he gets it perfectly in tune! It's a bit sore on the fingers, but it sounds wicked.

How to NAIL These Guitar Solos

Want to know how to really nail this lead work? The key is to listen to the original a lot and try to hear the subtleties. The technique and timing is quite easy, so focus on the touch and the tone, and try to replicate it in your playing. Enjoy!

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