Satriani Pentatonic Guitar Lick Tab

This Satriani-style pentatonic lick demonstrates how Joe Satriani transforms the familiar minor pentatonic scale into something completely his own — with whammy bar, precise bends, and his signature combination of legato and picking.

About the Solo

Satriani uses the pentatonic scale as a starting point, then adds extensions, bends, and whammy bar technique to create licks that are instantly recognizable. This exercise captures that approach and builds the vocabulary you need to play in his style.

What You Will Work On

• Pentatonic extensions — going beyond the basic box shape
• Satriani whammy bar technique — subtle dips and rises for expression
• Legato within pentatonic patterns — smooth, fast runs
• Bend and release with vibrato — wide bends held with vibrato
• Position shifting — moving up the neck fluidly

Tips for Learning

• Use a floating tremolo system if possible — it changes the character of the lick.
• Work on the legato sections separately at slow speed.
• Listen to Satriani’s Surfing with the Alien album for context.
• Focus on the feel — Satriani is always musical, never just showing off.