Why This Solo Is Hard to Learn
Two interlocking guitar parts
Don Felder and Joe Walsh play harmonised lines that weave together. At full speed it's hard to tell which notes belong to which guitarist.
Nearly two minutes of material
At 1 minute 47 seconds, this is one of the longest iconic guitar solos in rock. That's a lot of phrases to memorise and a lot of stamina required.
Harmony intervals change throughout
The two guitars harmonise in thirds, sixths and unisons at different points. Understanding these intervals is key to playing either part accurately.
The Two Guitar Parts
Slowing down to 50% lets you clearly hear and separate both parts. Here's what to listen for.
Guitar 1 - Lead Melody
The higher, more prominent melody line. This is the part most people recognise and learn first.
- Higher register, more melodic
- Prominent in the mix
- Uses bends and slides
- Good starting point for learning
Guitar 2 - Harmony
The lower harmony that gives the solo its distinctive sound. Essential for playing with another guitarist.
- Lower register, supports the melody
- Harmonises in 3rds and 6ths
- More rhythmically precise
- Learn second for full understanding
How to Practice This Solo
Open the pre-configured practice session
Click the button above to load PracticeLoop with the solo looped from 4:20 to 6:07 at 50% speed.
Listen and identify both parts
At 50% speed, focus on separating the two guitar lines. The lead melody sits higher, the harmony lower. Learn to hear them independently.
Break it into short sections
The solo is nearly 2 minutes long. Use the AB loop to isolate 10-15 second phrases and master them individually before connecting them.
Learn one guitar part at a time
Pick either the lead melody or harmony and learn it through the entire solo before attempting the other part.
Gradually increase speed
Work from 50% through 65% and 75% to full speed. Only move up when you can play the current speed cleanly from start to finish.
Speed Progression Plan
This solo is long. Be patient with the speed increases.
Map out the notes
Identify every note in your chosen guitar part. Work phrase by phrase, using AB loops to isolate sections. This stage will take the longest.
Connect the phrases
Start linking the individual phrases together. Focus on smooth transitions and consistent timing across the full solo.
Add dynamics and feel
The solo builds in intensity. Work on the dynamics - starting gentler and building to the climactic ending. Add vibrato and expression.
Play with the recording
Play along with the original. If any section falls apart, isolate it and drop back to 65% for that part. Build stamina by playing the full solo repeatedly.
Built for Guitar Practice
Speed Control 0.25x - 2x
Fine-grained slider with presets. Pitch is preserved so both guitar parts stay in tune for playing along.
AB Looping
Essential for a solo this long. Loop 10-second phrases to master them before moving to the next section.
Saved Loops
Name sections like "Opening phrase", "Harmony section", "Climax". Come back to any part across practice sessions.
Keyboard Shortcuts
Space to play/pause, [ and ] for loop points, L to toggle loop. Keep your hands on the guitar.
Frequently Asked Questions
Why is the Hotel California solo so hard to learn?
It features two interlocking harmony guitar parts played simultaneously by Don Felder and Joe Walsh. Each part is complex on its own, and they harmonise in thirds and sixths throughout. The solo also runs for nearly two minutes, requiring stamina and memorisation of a long passage.
Should I learn both guitar parts?
Start with the lead melody (Guitar 1) as it's more prominent and recognisable. Once you have that down, learning the harmony part gives you a complete understanding of the solo. If you play with another guitarist, you can perform the full dual-guitar arrangement.
What speed should I start at?
Start at 50%. The solo is long and harmonically complex, so you need the extra time to identify which notes belong to which guitar part. At 50% speed, the two parts separate clearly.
Does slowing down change the pitch?
No. PracticeLoop preserves the original pitch at all speeds. Both guitar parts stay in tune whether you're at 50% or 100%, so you can play along accurately.