How to Play Panama by Van Halen on Guitar
Van Halen’s “Panama” is one of the most iconic songs in rock history, and its catchy guitar riffs have captivated guitarists for decades. Whether you’re a beginner or an experienced player, learning how to play “Panama” on guitar can be a rewarding challenge. In this article, we’ll guide you through the essential steps and techniques to master this classic tune.
Understanding the Song Structure
“Panama” follows a straightforward structure with a verse-chorus pattern. The song consists of three main parts: the intro, the verse, and the chorus. Familiarize yourself with these sections to understand where each guitar part fits in the song.
1. The Intro
The intro of “Panama” is characterized by a distinctive, melodic guitar riff. To play this part, you’ll need to use a combination of open strings and fretted notes. Here’s a step-by-step guide:
- Start by tuning your guitar to the standard tuning (E-A-D-G-B-E).
- Play the following notes in the order they appear: E, B, E, B, G, E, B, E, E, B, E, B, G, E, B, E.
- Use a picking pattern that alternates between downstrokes and upstrokes to create a smooth, flowing sound.
2. The Verse
The verse of “Panama” features a slightly more complex guitar part with additional chords and notes. Here’s how to play it:
- Play the following chords in the order they appear: G, D, Em, C.
- Use a fingerpicking pattern to create a rhythmic, driving sound.
- Remember to mute the strings between chords to avoid unwanted noise.
3. The Chorus
The chorus of “Panama” is where the iconic guitar solo takes place. To play this part, you’ll need to use a combination of bends, vibrato, and palm muting. Here’s a breakdown of the key elements:
- Start by playing the following notes in the order they appear: E, G, B, D, F.
- Bend the third fret on the B string to achieve the iconic “bend” sound.
- Use vibrato to add expression to your playing.
- Palm mute the strings to create a distinctive, choppy sound.
Practicing and Tips
Mastering “Panama” by Van Halen on guitar requires consistent practice and attention to detail. Here are some tips to help you improve:
- Start by practicing each part of the song separately before trying to play them together.
- Focus on your timing and rhythm, as these are crucial to nailing the song.
- Record yourself playing the song to identify areas for improvement.
- Don’t be afraid to experiment with different techniques and effects to make your playing unique.
By following these steps and tips, you’ll be well on your way to mastering the iconic guitar parts of “Panama” by Van Halen. Happy practicing!
