Jimi Hendrix - All Along the Watchtower - Guitar Tab

Electric Ladyland

1968 4:01

Listen on Spotify

About All Along the Watchtower

Few cover versions have so thoroughly overtaken the original, and Jimi Hendrix's reading of this Dylan song is the reason most guitarists want to learn it. The track is built on a repeating three-chord vamp in C# minor, and getting that vamp to feel right is the first real challenge: the rhythm needs to be loose and slightly behind the beat, not clamped down. On top of that foundation, Hendrix layers multiple guitar parts, including wah-inflected lead lines, slide work, and rhythm fills that weave in and out. Beginners often underestimate how much is happening at once. Pick one part at a time and get it solid before adding the next layer. The solo sections are where the phrasing really demands attention, so use the Practice Toolbar to loop each phrase slowed down until the bends and vibrato feel natural under your fingers, rather than rushed. Tone and feel will carry you further here than sheer speed.

• The song centers on a three-chord vamp in C# minor, so nailing the laid-back rhythmic feel is as important as the notes themselves.
• Hendrix overdubbed several guitar parts on the recording, including slide guitar, making it worth isolating each layer when you practise.
• The solo uses wide string bends and heavy vibrato, so use the Practice Toolbar to loop phrases slowed down and build accuracy before going up to tempo.