In this video
This lesson teaches you how to play Jumpin' Jack Flash the way Keith Richards has performed it live for decades – in open G tuning with a capo at the fourth fret.
What You Will Learn:
Open G tuning with capo at fret 4 (sounding in the key of B)
The main riff using G power chord position
The chorus chord shapes at actual frets 7, 9, and 12
The signature minor pentatonic/Dorian lick from the original recording
The lead line at frets 9, 11, and 12
How to check tuning after placing the capo
Tuning Tip
After placing your capo at the fourth fret, always recheck your tuning – strings commonly go slightly sharp when a capo is applied. This is normal and not a sign of a faulty guitar.
The Main Riff
The riff uses the G power chord shape (now sounding as B due to the capo). Play fret 5 (relative to capo) with your third finger, middle two strings at fret 3 with middle and ring finger. The picking pattern goes: string 5, strings 3-4 together, strings 3-4 together – creating that iconic groove.
The Early 'And'
Just like Brown Sugar, this song emphasises playing on the 'and' before the beat: "and-one-and-two-and-three-and-four." This forward momentum is essential for capturing the Rolling Stones feel.
The Chorus Chords
The chorus uses one-finger bar chords at actual frets 12, 14, and 9 (use the dots on your fretboard as reference points). You can also use the Keith Richards signature shape at each position. This chord progression is what bands like U2 borrowed for songs like "Vertigo."