That'll Be the Day

The Crickets, 1957, from The "Chirping" Crickets. Solo by Buddy Holly.

Holly opens with a descending double-stop intro and returns to the idea in a solo steeped in Chuck Berry.

That'll Be the Day opens with a descending double-stop intro from Buddy Holly, instantly setting the song's energetic tone. Holly returns to the idea in his solo, which is steeped in Chuck Berry's influence but delivered with his own bright, clean style. His phrases are rhythmic and melodic, adding excitement without losing the song's catchy feel. Holly's playing inspired countless guitarists, including the young Beatles. Listen for the double-stops that echo the intro and how they move smoothly through the chords, and for the way the solo blends rock and roll swagger with a sense of youthful exuberance, keeping the song's momentum high.

That'll Be the Day by The Crickets is featured in our Rock & Roll (#20), Rockabilly (#16) lists. The solo is played by Buddy Holly and the song was released in 1957.

In our lists

• The 25 Greatest Rock and Roll Guitar Solos — #20
• The 25 Greatest Rockabilly Guitar Solos — #16
• The Best Buddy Holly Guitar Solos — #2

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