The ULTIMATE Summertime Blues Guitar Lesson (Eddie Cochran, The Who)

Today I want to share with you a song about a fussy, and frustrated teenager.

It beautifully captures a place and time relatable to many.

You only need 3 chords to play the original version from 1958. 

So tune up, and let’s dive into this Summertime Blues guitar lesson!

Who originally sang Summertime Blues?

"Summertime Blues" is an iconic rock and roll song that was written by Eddie Cochran and his manager Jerry Capehart. Eddie recorded the song in 1958, and it has since become one of his most lasting hits.

The song's lyrics depict the frustrations of a teenager who is unable to work during the summer due to age restrictions and therefore cannot afford the things he wants. It captures the rebellious spirit of youth and the desire for independence. The lyrics convey Eddie’s desire to earn money and buy a car to impress girls, but he is hindered by societal rules and regulations.

The recording of "Summertime Blues" took place at Gold Star Studios in Los Angeles, California. Eddie’s energetic guitar playing and spirited vocals, along with the catchy melody, contributed to the song's success.

When "Summertime Blues" was released it received critical acclaim and has since been recognized as one of the greatest rock and roll songs of all time. 

It reached the top 10 on the Billboard Hot 100 chart in the United States and also achieved success in various other countries. The song has by covered by many artists over the years, including the Who, which I will break down as well.

"Summertime Blues" has been included in numerous lists of the greatest songs in rock music history. Eddie Cochran's contribution to rock and roll, particularly through this song, has solidified his legacy as one of the genre's most influential figures.

Summertime Blues Chords

You only need to know 3 chords to play “Summertime Blues” on guitar, E, A, and B7.

All of these chords can be played in open position. Here’s how I would play them.

For E, I would play all 6 strings like this:

I would play A from the 5th string down like this:

And finally, B7 can be played from the 5th string down like this:

What key is Summertime Blues in?

Eddie Cochran’s version of “Summertime Blues” is in the key of E major. The 3 main chords used in the song are E, A, and B7. These chords are the primary chords in the key of E major. 

Here's how they relate:

• E (I): The E chord is the tonic chord in the key of E major, often represented by the Roman numeral "I". As the tonic chord, it provides a sense of resolution and stability in the key. The E major chord consists of the notes E, G#, and B
• A (IV): The A chord is the subdominant chord in the key of E major, typically represented by the Roman numeral "IV". As the subdominant chord, it sits a fourth above the tonic chord (E). The A major chord consists of the notes A, C#, and E.
• B7 (V7): The B7 chord is the dominant seventh chord in the key of E major, commonly represented by the Roman numeral "V7". As the dominant seventh chord, it provides tension and leads back to the tonic chord (E). The B7 chord consists of the notes B, D#, F#, and A.

In the context of a typical chord progression in the key of E major, you might see these chords used in various combinations. For example, a common progression could be:

E (I) - A (IV) - B7 (V7) - E (I)

This progression, often referred to as the I-IV-V7-I progression, is used in many songs across different genres. 

Summertime Blues Guitar Lesson (The Who Live At Leeds)

“Summertime Blues” as recorded by the Who is done in the key of A major, and then modulates to the key of B major.

The version I cover here was released in 1970 on the Live At Leeds album. Their rendition of the song became a significant hit and had a notable impact on both the band's career and the rock music scene at the time.

The story behind The Who's cover of "Summertime Blues" dates back to their early days when they were still establishing themselves as a prominent rock band. The band had been performing the song live for years, often as part of their energetic and dynamic stage performances. They had built a reputation for their high-octane live shows, and "Summertime Blues" became a staple of their setlist.

In 1970, The Who recorded their version of "Summertime Blues" for their live album "Live at Leeds." The album was recorded during a concert at the University of Leeds, and "Summertime Blues" was one of the standout tracks. The Who's cover brought renewed attention to the song, introducing it to a new generation of fans and cementing its status as a rock classic.

The impact of The Who's cover of "Summertime Blues" was significant in several ways:

The release of "Live at Leeds" brought The Who widespread acclaim and helped solidify their reputation as one of the greatest live rock bands of all time.

The Who's cover of "Summertime Blues" remains one of the most iconic versions of the song, alongside Eddie Cochran's original recording. It continues to be celebrated as a classic rock anthem and is frequently included in retrospectives of The Who's legendary career.

Overall, The Who's cover of "Summertime Blues" not only paid homage to a rock and roll classic but also helped propel the band to new heights of success and cement their status as one of the greatest rock acts of all time.

Conclusion:

So, there you have it! "Summertime Blues" is a timeless anthem that captures the teenage spirit of frustration and angst for freedom.  Whether you're a fan of Eddie Cochran's original or The Who's electrifying cover, this song is a blast to play on guitar. 

With just three chords, even beginners can get started strumming along to this classic.  So grab your guitar, find those E, A, and B7 chords, and get ready to chase away your own summertime blues!

Have fun! And for more rock and roll guitar check out this Johnny B Goode guitar lesson or this Paint It Black guitar lesson next!