7 Guitar Tricks To Master Ol Smokey By Hank

In the world of country music, few songs embody the timeless charm and simplicity that can be found in Hank Williams' "I'm So Lonesome I Could Cry" - commonly known by the nicknames like "Ol' Smokey". This classic has resonated with guitarists and music lovers alike, not just for its storytelling lyrics, but also for its deep, soulful melody that can be played with such finesse on the guitar. Here, we'll delve into seven guitar tricks you can master to truly bring out the spirit of "Ol' Smokey", ensuring that every note sings with the soulfulness that the song deserves.

Understanding the Essence of "Ol' Smokey"

Before diving into the technicalities, it's worth considering what makes "Ol' Smokey" so iconic:

• Simplicity: Despite its emotional depth, the song relies on a straightforward chord progression.
• The Bluesy Edge: Hank Williams incorporated blues scales and bends to add that distinctive mournful tone.
• Emotional Dynamics: The song transitions from a sad, reflective mood to one of intense loneliness, which guitarists can amplify through their play.

1. Perfect Your Chord Voicing

"Ol' Smokey" primarily uses basic chords, but for a more authentic sound, focus on your chord voicings:

• G Major: Instead of the standard open G, try using G6 or Gsus4 occasionally for a slight variation that adds richness to the sound.
• C Major: Use an alternate C chord shape with your pinky on the third fret of the B string, creating a more complex sound.
• A Minor: In certain phrases, use the Am7 shape to add a bit of jazziness to the otherwise folk arrangement.

Example:

| Chord    | Normal Voicing | Suggested Voicing |
|----------|----------------|--------------------|
| **G**    | 320033         | 3X0030 (G6)        |
| **C**    | X32010         | X32033             |
| **Am**   | X02210         | X02013 (Am7)       |

<p class="pro-note">🎶 Pro Tip: Experiment with inversions to keep the melody line on top. This can give your chords a flowing, vocal quality.</p>

2. Bluesy Licks and Melodic Lines

One of Hank's signature styles was to add bluesy licks within his melodies:

• Bends: Use slight bends in the melody to echo the crying feel of the song. Try bending the third of each chord (B for G major) up a whole step.
• Hammer-ons and Pull-offs: Incorporate these techniques for smooth transitions between notes.

Example of Bluesy Lick:

       E|--3---3/5---5b(7)---5---3--3--
       B|-----------------------------
       G|---------------3h5---5p3--
       D|---------------------------5-
       A|---------------------------2-
       E|-----------------------------

## 3. **Embellishing Chords**

Instead of playing the chords exactly as written, you can:

- **Suspend Chords:** Replace regular chords with suspended versions like Csus4 before resolving to the standard C.
- **Add9s and 7ths:** Incorporate add9 chords for richer sounds, or use seventh chords to introduce more complexity.

**Examples:**

- **C to Csus4:** Add a Sus4 and back, creating tension and release.
- **D Major to D7:** When going to the G, play a D7 before for that classic country turn.

💡 Pro Tip: Using suspended chords can give your playing an ambiguous, slightly dissonant feel that beautifully underscores the song's mood.

## 4. **Strumming Pattern**

The original recording features a simple, almost understated strum pattern:

- **Boom-chick-chick:** This rhythm forms the backbone of the song. The thumb plays bass notes (boom) followed by two higher string strums (chick).
- **Gentle Emphasis:** Hit the bass note firmly to provide the rhythm, but keep the two subsequent strums light.

### How To Strum:

```markdown
- D|----Down-strum---|---Down-strum---|
- U|---Up-strum (mute)|---Up-strum---|

5. Voice Leading

Voice leading is how each note moves from one chord to the next:

• Avoid large jumps: Try to keep the highest voice relatively close to its position in the next chord.
• Common Notes: Play common tones between chords to provide smoothness and continuity in the melody line.

Example of Voice Leading:

       E|--3---3---3---2---0---2---3---3---3---
       B|---------------1---1---3---3---3---0---
       G|--0---0---0---0---0---2---0---0---0---
       D|--0---0---2---2---2---0---0---2---2---
       A|--2---2---3---3---3---------------2---
       E|--3---3------------------------------

👓 Pro Tip: Smooth voice leading can make your transitions from one chord to the next seem effortless, enhancing the emotional pull of the song.

## 6. **Vibrato for Expression**

Hank Williams was known for his expressive vibrato, adding depth to every note:

- **Wide Vibrato:** Use a wider, slower vibrato for emphasis, especially on long held notes.
- **Controlled Vibrato:** Keep it gentle and controlled in regular playing to maintain the melodic integrity.

## 7. **Timing and Dynamics**

Timing and dynamics are crucial for storytelling through guitar:

- **Pacing:** Play slowly and deliberately, with a rhythmic flexibility that lets the song breathe.
- **Volume:** Introduce subtle dynamic changes to keep listeners engaged. Crescendo when moving into new sections or to punctuate a lyrical climax.

### How To Adjust Dynamics:

```markdown
- **Gentle:** Start soft, as if setting the stage for the story.
- **Build:** Gradually increase the volume as the narrative intensifies.
- **Peak:** Hit the high points with a bit more force or expression.
- **Subdue:** Pull back to underscore a moment of reflection or sadness.

<p class="pro-note">🥁 Pro Tip: Dynamic contrast can make the quietest moments of your playing as impactful as the loudest. Listen to the song's ebbs and flows for guidance.</p>

Final Note:

As you wrap up your exploration of "Ol' Smokey", remember that the beauty of this song lies in its simplicity and the depth of emotion it conveys. Mastering these seven guitar tricks won't just make you a better guitarist; it will allow you to tell the story of "Ol' Smokey" with the same poignant expression that made it an American classic. Now, grab your guitar, find your own interpretation of these techniques, and pour your heart into every note. Keep exploring related tutorials to expand your musical vocabulary and make each performance uniquely yours.

<p class="pro-note">💡 Pro Tip: Always listen to Hank's original recording for inspiration. It's not just about copying but about understanding the spirit behind every note and strum. Let that guide your journey with "Ol' Smokey".</p>

<div class="faq-section"> <div class="faq-container"> <div class="faq-item"> <div class="faq-question"> <h3>What is the key to playing Ol' Smokey authentically?</h3> <span class="faq-toggle">+</span> </div> <div class="faq-answer"> <p>The key lies in understanding the song's emotional depth and simplicity. Focus on playing with subtlety, using dynamics, and incorporating the bluesy elements that define Hank Williams' style.</p> </div> </div> <div class="faq-item"> <div class="faq-question"> <h3>How can I add more expression to the melody?</h3> <span class="faq-toggle">+</span> </div> <div class="faq-answer"> <p>Experiment with bends, slides, and vibrato to add emotion to your playing. The goal is to let the guitar "sing" the melody with as much feeling as the vocals.</p> </div> </div> <div class="faq-item"> <div class="faq-question"> <h3>Can I use these tricks for other songs?</h3> <span class="faq-toggle">+</span> </div> <div class="faq-answer"> <p>Absolutely! These techniques, particularly in chord voicing, strumming patterns, and dynamics, can be applied to many songs in the country or blues genre to add flavor and expression.</p> </div> </div> </div> </div>