My Sharona Riff Lesson: The Knack Guitar Tutorial - Riffmas Guitar Lesson 3

hello everyone,

Ready for the third lesson in our Riffmas Challenge series? In this high-energy guitar lesson, we dive deep into one of the greatest power-pop anthems and most instantly catchy riffs of all time: "My Sharona" by The Knack! This is a perfect lesson for the adult learner looking to master driving rhythm, powerful chord changes, and aggressive downstrokes—techniques essential for classic rock and punk styles.

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How To Enter The Riffmas Competition: (Win an Enya Smart Guitar & TC Pedals!)
To enter the Riffmas Competition, simply post a video clip of yourself playing any of the eight scheduled riff lessons in the Facebook group, which earns you one ticket into the draw for each unique lesson for a maximum of eight total entries; this competition is open worldwide, with the winners being drawn on New Year's Eve to win a TC Electronic Mojo Mojo Overdrive pedal, a TC Electronic Ditto Loop Pedal, or an Enya Carbon Fibre Smart Travel Guitar (all prizes include a KGS T-shirt), and prizes will be posted on Monday, January 5th.

Lesson Focus: Mastering Power-Pop Rhythm and Simplicity
We start by meticulously breaking down the unforgettable opening riff and the structure of the main verses. The trick to this riff is not complexity, but maximum intensity and perfect rhythmic attack. We cover the specific power chords and muting techniques needed to achieve the massive, driving tone of the original recording. This is a foundational lesson for any player looking to master high-energy, stripped-down rock playing and great chord memory.

The main focus of this tutorial is on simplifying the subtle timing required to maintain the punch and urgency. We analyze the precise downstroke rhythm and how the riff's simple, cyclical nature creates such a powerful effect. We show you exactly how to approach the pattern to maintain the aggressive energy throughout the entire song. This is a masterclass in using raw power and simplicity effectively in rock music.

???? FREE PDF TABS DOWNLOAD: Get the complete sheet music for this lesson: https://www.kirkleesguitarschoolonline.co.uk/

Song Context:

"My Sharona" was released in 1979 and instantly became a global smash hit, defining the sound of power pop and bridging the gap between late-70s punk energy and New Wave precision. Noted for its relentless tempo, driving drums, and instantly recognizable guitar riff, the song remains a staple in rock music. Mastering this riff unlocks key concepts in rhythm and attack that are essential for high-energy guitar playing.

Master this riff and unlock the punch and power behind one of the most iconic songs of the 1970s.

Tags & Links
#TheKnack #MySharona #GuitarRiff #PowerPop #70sRock #HowToPlayGuitar #GuitarTutorial #ElectricGuitar #RiffLesson #PowerChords #Riffmas #GuitarChallenge #AdultLearner

Kirklees Guitar School is a music school based in Denby Dale, Huddersfield, UK, specialising in guitar, piano, and drum lessons. We help adults of all ages learn to play the music they love — both in-person and online.

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