If you’ve ever tried to learn the guitar, you’ve likely encountered the phrase “Every Good Boy Deserves Fudge.” It’s a mnemonic for remembering the notes on the treble clef staff: E, G, B, D, F. But this phrase is also the title of a book by David Mead, a guitar instructor and author. The book is a collection of tips, tricks, and techniques for guitarists of all levels, but it’s not a typical method book. It’s more of a reference guide, a compilation of practical advice that Mead has gathered over years of teaching and playing.
The book covers a wide range of topics, from basic chord shapes and strumming patterns to more advanced concepts like modes, arpeggios, and improvisation. It’s organized into short, digestible sections, each focusing on a specific aspect of guitar playing. This makes it easy to dip in and out, rather than reading cover to cover. The writing is clear and concise, with diagrams and musical examples to illustrate the points. Mead’s tone is friendly and encouraging, but not overly simplistic; he assumes the reader has some basic knowledge of the guitar, like how to hold it and tune it.
In real-world usage, this book works best as a supplement to regular practice or lessons. It’s not a structured course, so beginners might find it overwhelming if they try to use it as their primary resource. Intermediate players, however, will likely find plenty of useful nuggets to refine their technique or expand their musical vocabulary. For example, the sections on chord inversions and voice leading are particularly helpful for those looking to write songs or accompany singers. The improvisation tips are practical, focusing on using scales and patterns in musical contexts rather than just running them up and down.
One of the strengths of the book is its emphasis on musicality over mere technical prowess. Mead often stresses the importance of listening and playing with others, which is a refreshing change from books that focus solely on speed and dexterity. He also includes advice on gear, practice routines, and even performance anxiety, making it a well-rounded guide for the gigging or aspiring guitarist.
However, there are limitations. The book doesn’t delve deeply into any single topic; it’s more of a sampler. If you’re looking for an in-depth study of music theory or a step-by-step method to master the fretboard, you’ll need to look elsewhere. Also, the musical examples are mostly in standard notation and tablature, but some sections assume you can read music, which might be a barrier for strictly tab readers. Additionally, the book’s layout can feel a bit cluttered, with sidebars and boxes breaking up the flow.
Compared to other guitar books, such as Guitar Aerobics or The Advancing Guitarist, Every Good Boy Deserves Fudge is less systematic and more of a grab bag. It’s similar in spirit to a compilation of magazine columns, which makes sense given Mead’s background as a writer for guitar magazines. It’s not as comprehensive as a full method book, but it’s more approachable than a dense theory tome.
Who is this book for? It’s ideal for the self-taught guitarist who has been playing for a year or two and wants to fill in gaps in their knowledge without committing to a formal course. It’s also good for teachers looking for supplemental material to assign to students. It’s not suitable for absolute beginners who don’t yet know basic open chords, nor for advanced players seeking deep theoretical analysis. Those looking for a structured curriculum should consider other options.
In summary, Every Good Boy Deserves Fudge is a handy resource that lives up to its mnemonic title: it helps you remember and apply the fundamentals of guitar playing in a musical way. It won’t turn you into a virtuoso overnight, but it might just make your practice sessions more productive and enjoyable. As with any instructional book, the value comes from how you use it—consistent practice and application are key.
