Hard to Handle, The Black Crowes (Lesson)

Hard to Handle by The Black Crowes: A Pro Perspective

Let's check out "Hard to Handle" by The Black Crowes from a professional perspective.

Overview

• Genre: Hard Rock
• Released: 1990
• Time Signature: 4/4
• Key: B Major (5 sharps)

Structure of the Song

1. Intro: 5 bars (unusual length)
2. Verse 1: 8 bars
3. Chorus: 4 bars
4. Instrumental Link: 2 bars
5. Verse 2: 8 bars
6. Chorus 2: 4 bars
7. Post-Chorus: Instrumental hook (strong identifiable motif of the song)
8. Instrumental Middle Eight: 8 bar piano solo
9. Chorus: Repeats
10. Piano Solo: Originally a guitar solo, transcribed for piano
11. Ending: Finishes on the post-chorus (no outro)

Technique Points

Key and Time Signature

• Key: B Major
• Time Signature: 4/4

Familiarity with B Major:

• Practice chords in the piano accompaniment
• Learn all inversions in the right hand

Practice Tips

1. Slow Practice with a Metronome: Essential for rhythmic accuracy.

2. Bar 32 Pedaling:

   • Use the pedal on the first three chords.
   • Example: Pedal, pedal, pedal off; pedal, pedal, pedal off; pedal, pedal, pedal off
   • Creates a crisp and resonant sound.

3. Improvisation in Bar 40:

   • Use pedal to support the bass line.
   • Maintain connection between both hands (up to five octaves apart).

Accentuation and Coordination

• Accent each 16-note group: To clarify articulation.
• Clap the rhythm in Bar 27:
  • Physically clapping helps with coordination.
  • Example: Clap the rhythm on your lap or a table while practicing.

Triplet Dynamics

• In Bar 47: Ensure triplets are played as 1, 2, 3 in a smooth flow.

Wrist Flexibility

• Maintain flexibility in the left hand, especially during octave passages.

Repetitive Motions

• In Bars 50 and 51: Utilize various fingerings for repetitive notes (e.g., 1, 4, 3).

Memorization Techniques

• Memorizing one hand allows concentration on the other.
• Especially useful for big spans (5 octaves) between hands.

Maintaining Momentum

• Stay focused over the long piece (seven to nine pages).
• Practice improvisation in Bars 40 and 56 to build confidence.

Dynamic Control

• General Dynamics:
  • Be part of the band; play prominently.
• Right Hand Solo:
  • Lower the left hand volume when the right hand takes the lead.
• Chorus Dynamics:
  • Balance loud and soft notes to enhance the musical phrase.

Conclusion

To summarize:

• Start with the piano solos in Bars 40 and 56.
• Gradually integrate them into the piece.
• Pay attention to fingerings and dynamics.
• Collaborate with your teacher to refine technique.

By investing time in solid right-hand practice and memorization, this piece will become much more manageable. Happy playing!