Runnin’ With The Devil Guitar TAB

Runnin’ with the Devil by Van Halen is a debut-album classic from 1978. Eddie Van Halen’s guitar work throughout the track — including the solo — is a display of effortless technique, feel, and the kind of natural musical talent that redefined what was possible on electric guitar.

About the Solo

Eddie’s playing on this track is relaxed and confident — he makes it sound easy. The solo combines pentatonic vocabulary with Eddie’s unique phrasing and expressive bends. It is an introduction to his style that every rock guitarist should study carefully.

What You Will Work On

• Eddie Van Halen phrasing — relaxed, confident, and musical
• Pentatonic vocabulary — classic EVH-style licks and patterns
• Expressive bends — natural pitch bending with great feel
• Whammy bar technique — subtle use for expression
• Right-hand touch — how Eddie’s picking style shapes his sound

Tips for Learning

• Study the whole track — Eddie’s rhythm playing is as important as the solo.
• Focus on the feel before the technique — EVH is all about natural musicality.
• Work on your bending accuracy — EVH always hits the pitch perfectly.
• Listen to the early Van Halen records to understand the context of this style.