Runnin With The Devil by Van Halen
Runnin' With The Devil is from Van Halen's self-titled debut album released in 1978. The track features Eddie Van Halen's iconic groove and a driving, swaggering riff that matched David Lee Roth's flamboyant vocal lines, helping to launch the band's rapid ascent to arena-rock stardom.
Culturally, the song became a touchstone of late 70s/early 80s hard rock. Its unapologetic energy and instantly memorable riff made it a staple on radio, in movies, and at stadiums, and it remains one of the most recognizable rock riffs of all time. This DadRock Tabs lesson breaks down how to play the rhythm guitar behind that groove, so you can capture the power of the original while developing solid rhythm technique.
🎸 Want to know the techniques, practice tips, and lesson details? Scroll below the lesson!
What You'll Learn
In this lesson you will learn how to lock in the iconic E-based riff built on power chords, palm-muted chugs, and precise rhythm. We’ll cover the main riff shape, the verse groove, timing on the downbeats, and how to transition between riffs smoothly. You’ll practice with a metronome and a backing track to stay in the pocket and develop the aggressive, tight rhythm that defines this track.
Intermediate; prior experience with power chords, palm muting, and steady alternate picking will help you get the groove faster.
🎸 Techniques Used
Practice Tips
- 💡Start slow with a metronome and loop small sections until you can lock in the groove cleanly.
- 💡Keep your palm resting lightly on the strings near the bridge to get crisp, even muting and avoid muddy chords.
- 💡Play along with a drum/backing track to nail the feel and timing against real groove.
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