In this episode of the Guitar Music Theory podcast, Desi is joined by his daughter Lila to look back at some of the biggest pop hits of 2025.

Together, they explore why these songs connect so strongly with listeners and what guitarists can learn from them. From chord progressions and melodies to groove, phrasing, and feel, this conversation pulls musical ideas out of modern pop songs and translates them into concepts you can apply to guitar.

Even if pop is not your main genre, these songs offer valuable lessons in simplicity, songwriting, and musical impact. Plus, this episode features a fun and honest father-daughter discussion that gives a fresh perspective on today's music.

Whether you are curious about current pop trends or looking for new inspiration for your guitar playing, this episode offers insight, analysis, and plenty of takeaways.

Email Desi
https://www.guitarmusictheory.com/contact/

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New Book: Lead Guitar Unlocked: Master Expressive Soloing With the Pentatonic Scale
https://www.amazon.com/Lead-Guitar-Unlocked-Expressive-Pentatonic/dp/B0FY4XH4TP

Backing Tracks
https://www.karaoke-version.com/

In this Q&A episode, Desi answers listener questions on a wide range of guitar topics—including how to choose the right song tempo, whether you need warm-ups, practical ear-training methods, when to use modes, and how chord extensions actually work. You'll also hear tips on improvisation, fretboard navigation, and developing better musical instincts.

If you're looking to deepen your understanding of both the technical and musical sides of guitar, this episode is packed with clear explanations and real-world examples to help you grow as a player.

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https://www.GuitarMusicTheory.com

NEW BOOK: Lead Guitar Unlocked: Master Expressive Soloing With the Pentatonic Scale
https://www.amazon.com/Lead-Guitar-Unlocked-Expressive-Pentatonic/dp/B0FY4XH4TP

In this episode, Desi Serna is joined by friends and fellow guitarists Matt Reviere and Jon "HW" Sullivan for a lively discussion about one of the most debated solos of the 1980s — Steve Howe's guitar solo in "Heat of the Moment" by Asia.

The trio breaks down why the solo doesn't quite hit the mark, exploring its phrasing, tone, and fit within the song. Along the way, they take a deep dive into Steve Howe's legendary work with Yes, examining how such a brilliant player could deliver something that feels so out of place.

Then things get creative — each guitarist reveals and plays a replacement solo they composed themselves, reimagining what the song could sound like with a stronger melodic statement.

It's equal parts music theory, guitar nerdery, and good humor between three friends who love to analyze and play great guitar music.

• Desi: Heat of the Moment Solo – Desi

• Jon "HW": Heat of the Moment Solo – HW

• Matt: Heat of the Moment Solo – Matt

🎵 Get the Backing Track:
Asia – "Heat of the Moment" Guitar Backing Track (Karaoke-Version.com)

🎚️ Tone Used:
Inspired by the 80s – Kemper Pack by Tone Junkie

🎸 Free Custom Video Course:
https://www.GuitarMusicTheory.com

📘 Lead Guitar Unlocked: Master Expressive Soloing With the Pentatonic Scale:
https://www.amazon.com/Lead-Guitar-Unlocked-Expressive-Pentatonic/dp/B0FY4XH4TP

In episode 178 of the Guitar Music Theory Podcast, I pay tribute to Kiss lead guitarist Ace Frehley with some of my favorite guitar solos he recorded.

Free Video Course
https://www.GuitarMusicTheory.com

Huey Tribute
Come see me play live on 11/21/2025
https://cainarts.org/event/heart-of-rock-roll-the-authentic-tribute-to-huey-lewis-the-news/cain-center-for-the-arts/north-carolina/

Ace Frehley Guitar Solos ⚡️ Spotify Playlist
https://open.spotify.com/playlist/1ZfV8unmk7W4Y5F4mKbw78?si=48235bd7b3244c51

Backing track courtesy of Karaoke Version
https://www.karaoke-version.com/

In this episode, I break down the 1975 Rainbow classic featuring Ritchie Blackmore and Ronnie James Dio. I take you through the signature opening riff, the shifting minor key changes, the alternate-picked arpeggios, and the fiery solo that defines the track. I also talk about Blackmore's Strat/Marshall setup and show you how studying this song can improve your technique, deepen your understanding of music theory, and boost your confidence as a guitarist.

Free Custom Video Course

Be sure to visit https://www.GuitarMusicTheory.com and answer the question about your playing. I'll send you a free custom video course with a clear, step-by-step plan to help you reach your guitar goals and start sounding like the player you've always wanted to be.

In episode 176 of the Guitar Music Theory podcast, I talk with Roger and Tony Langdon, founders of The Heart of Rock and Roll—America's #1 Huey Lewis tribute band. We dive into what it takes to run a high-level tribute act, including building a band, nailing the sound, preparing for gigs, and delivering a polished live show.

The Heart of Rock and Roll
Learn more about the band at https://hueytribute.com/

Free Guitar Video Course
Enroll in a free video course at https://www.GuitarMusicTheory.com and get custom instruction based on your current playing level.

In episode 175 of the Guitar Music Theory podcast, I answer listener emails about:

• Using your thumb to fret the 6th string in barre chords and possible workarounds
• How to improve your rhythm and memorize songs more effectively
• The G form barre chord and how it's used in modern playing
• A theory-based analysis of Foo Fighters' use of pedal tones in chord progressions
• Why sus4 and minor 6 chords don't naturally occur in certain scale degrees
• Why guitarists sometimes play notes like F# over A minor—mixing scales in blues-based rock

Plus, I mention the JamZone app and how it can help you practice and play along with real songs.

Zoom Classes
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In episode 174 of the Guitar Music Theory podcast, I chat with Carrie Underwood guitarist Matt Reviere about recreating classic 80s guitar tones for the Kemper Profiling Amplifier and Line 6 Helix using the new Inspired by the 80s pack from Tone Junkie. We discuss his workflow for analyzing songs, dialing in tones, and jamming on iconic riffs from artists like Dire Straits, The Police, Bon Jovi, and more.

🎛️ Check out the Tone Junkie pack here: tonejunkiestore.com/inspiredby/p/inspired-by-the-80s-kemper

🎸 Get started with a free video course tailored to your current level at GuitarMusicTheory.com