Beat It

The recording

Following Michael Jackson's vision for a crossover hit, Steve Lukather initially tracked aggressive rhythm parts, but the arrangement was significantly altered after Eddie Van Halen rearranged the middle section of the song to accommodate his guitar solo. This edit necessitated splicing the master tape, which disrupted the synchronization of the original tracks. Consequently, Lukather and drummer Jeff Porcaro were tasked with reconstructing the rhythm section to fit the existing vocals and Van Halen's newly recorded solo. These final rhythm parts were re-recorded with a cleaner, warmer tone to ensure the track's success on pop radio, resulting in the iconic, driving sound of the final master.

Tuning E Standard

Original gear

Fender Deluxe

Amp · Steve Lukather · Riff

After initially tracking the rhythm parts with a large Marshall setup, Steve Lukather recorded these final rhythm guitar parts through a Fender Deluxe at the request of producer Quincy Jones to achieve a tone better suited for a pop crossover hit.

Frankenstrat

Guitar · Eddie Van Halen · Solo

Eddie Van Halen played his self-built guitar for the recording of the solo.

Marshall amplifier

Amp · Eddie Van Halen · Solo

Eddie Van Halen used a rented Marshall amplifier while recording his guitar solo for the track at Westlake Studio B.

Echoplex tape delay

Delay · Eddie Van Halen · Solo

Eddie Van Halen utilized his favored tape delay unit during the session.

Alternatives

Practical playing approach

Recreation guidance, not a claim about undocumented studio control positions.

1. 1.Play the main riff with aggressive palm muting to maintain tight rhythm alignment with the drums.
2. 2.Use a bridge humbucker pickup with high output for the solo section.
3. 3.Incorporate fast two-handed tapping techniques reminiscent of Eddie Van Halen's signature style during the solo.