Randy Rhoads’ guitar work on Ozzy Osbourne’s Blizzard Of Ozz album is legendary, and “Suicide Solution” is a standout track for guitarists. In this lesson, we’ll break down the iconic guitar parts from the studio version of “Suicide Solution”, focusing on the riffs and fills that make this song a classic.
Tuned to standard tuning (E A D G B E), “Suicide Solution” is surprisingly accessible for many guitar players. Rhoads crafted riffs that are both powerful and relatively straightforward to learn. While his virtuosity is undeniable, this track offers a fantastic entry point into his signature style for guitarists who may not be ready to tackle his more complex solos right away.
One of the key elements of “Suicide Solution” is the variation in the verse fills. Randy Rhoads didn’t simply repeat the same lick throughout the verses; he subtly altered them, adding depth and interest to the song. We will meticulously examine each of the four verses, ensuring you grasp every nuance of these unique fills. Understanding these variations is crucial for accurately playing the studio version of the song.
It’s important to note that the studio version of “Suicide Solution” does not feature a traditional guitar solo. This differs significantly from the live rendition on “Tribute,” where Rhoads unleashes an unforgettable unaccompanied solo. While that live solo is incredible (and covered in a separate lesson), our focus here is solely on the studio arrangement, highlighting the tight, riff-based guitar work that defines the original recording.
Learning “Suicide Solution” is a rewarding experience for any guitarist. It’s a fantastic way to delve into the genius of Randy Rhoads and add a cornerstone of rock guitar to your repertoire. So pick up your guitar and let’s explore the riffs and fills of this Ozzy Osbourne classic!
