How To Play Smells Like Teen Spirit is a song by the American rock band Nirvana, released in 1991 as the lead single from their second studio album, Nevermind. The song was written by Nirvana’s lead singer and guitarist, Kurt Cobain, and drummer Dave Grohl. It became one of the band’s most popular songs and is widely considered to be one of the greatest rock songs of all time.
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The song is a grunge anthem that helped to popularize the genre in the early 1990s. It is characterized by its distorted guitars, pounding drums, and Cobain’s angst-ridden lyrics. The song’s lyrics are open to interpretation, but they are generally thought to be about teenage alienation and rebellion.
How To Play Smells Like Teen Spirit is a relatively simple song to play on guitar. The main riff is based on a power chord progression, and the solo is composed of a series of pentatonic scales. The song can be played in standard tuning, or it can be played with a drop-D tuning, which lowers the pitch of the low E string by one whole step.
1. Power chords
Power chords are a fundamental part of “Smells Like Teen Spirit.” They create the song’s instantly recognizable main riff and provide the foundation for the rest of the song’s instrumentation. Without power chords, “Smells Like Teen Spirit” would lose its characteristic grunge sound and much of its overall impact.
Power chords are relatively easy to play, making them a good choice for beginner guitarists. They are also very versatile and can be used in a variety of musical genres, from rock to metal to punk.Here is a step-by-step guide to playing the main riff of “Smells Like Teen Spirit” on guitar:1. Tune your guitar to standard tuning (E, A, D, G, B, E).2. Place your index finger on the 5th fret of the low E string.3. Place your middle finger on the 7th fret of the A string.4. Strum the low E string and the A string simultaneously.This is the basic power chord shape. You can move this shape up and down the neck of the guitar to play different power chords.To play the main riff of “Smells Like Teen Spirit,” you will need to play the following power chords in succession: E5 D5 C5 G5* A5You can strum these chords in a down-up-down-up pattern, or you can palm mute them for a more aggressive sound.Power chords are an essential part of “Smells Like Teen Spirit” and they are a fundamental part of grunge music in general. By understanding how to play power chords, you can learn to play this iconic song and many other grunge classics.
2. Pentatonic scales
Pentatonic scales are an essential part of “Smells Like Teen Spirit.” They are used in the song’s solo, which is one of the most iconic guitar solos in rock history. Pentatonic scales are also used throughout the rest of the song, giving it its characteristic grunge sound.
Pentatonic scales are easy to play, which makes them a good choice for beginner guitarists. They are also very versatile and can be used in a variety of musical genres, from rock to blues to country. Pentatonic scales are often used in improvisation, as they provide a simple yet effective way to create melodic solos.
The solo in “Smells Like Teen Spirit” is a perfect example of how pentatonic scales can be used to create a memorable and melodic solo. The solo is based on the A minor pentatonic scale, which is one of the most common pentatonic scales used in rock music. The solo is relatively easy to play, but it is full of feeling and emotion. It is a perfect example of how pentatonic scales can be used to create a powerful and expressive guitar solo.
If you are a beginner guitarist, learning how to play pentatonic scales is a great way to improve your playing. Pentatonic scales are easy to play and they can be used to create a variety of different sounds. They are also a great way to learn how to improvise guitar solos.
3. Drop-D tuning
Drop-D tuning is a common tuning used in rock and metal music. It is often used to create a heavier, more aggressive sound. Drop-D tuning is achieved by lowering the pitch of the low E string by one whole step, from E to D. This creates a wider interval between the low E string and the A string, which can make it easier to play certain chords and riffs.
- Heavier sound: Drop-D tuning gives “Smells Like Teen Spirit” a heavier, more aggressive sound. This is because the lower pitch of the low E string creates a thicker, more powerful sound.
- Easier to play: Drop-D tuning can make it easier to play certain chords and riffs. This is because the wider interval between the low E string and the A string makes it easier to reach certain notes.
- More versatile: Drop-D tuning is a versatile tuning that can be used to play a variety of different songs. It is a popular tuning for rock and metal music, but it can also be used to play blues, country, and even pop music.
Whether you choose to play “Smells Like Teen Spirit” in standard tuning or drop-D tuning is a matter of personal preference. If you are looking for a heavier, more aggressive sound, then drop-D tuning is a good option. However, if you are more comfortable with standard tuning, or if you are playing other songs that are in standard tuning, then you may want to stick with standard tuning.
4. Palm muting
Palm muting is a fundamental technique for playing grunge music. It is used to create a percussive, muted sound that is characteristic of the genre. Palm muting is achieved by placing the palm of your picking hand on the strings near the bridge of the guitar. This will mute the strings and create a percussive sound when you strum them.
- Creates a percussive sound: Palm muting creates a percussive sound that is characteristic of grunge music. This sound is created by the muted strings striking the frets of the guitar.
- Adds aggression to the sound: Palm muting can add aggression to the sound of a guitar. This is because the muted strings create a more distorted and aggressive sound than open strings.
- Can be used to create a variety of sounds: Palm muting can be used to create a variety of sounds, from a light percussive sound to a heavy, distorted sound. This versatility makes palm muting a valuable technique for guitarists of all levels.
Palm muting is an essential technique for playing “Smells Like Teen Spirit.” It is used extensively throughout the song to create the song’s signature sound. Without palm muting, “Smells Like Teen Spirit” would lose much of its aggression and power.
FAQs on “How to Play Smells Like Teen Spirit”
This section addresses common concerns and misconceptions about playing “Smells Like Teen Spirit” on guitar.
Question 1: What is the most challenging part of playing “Smells Like Teen Spirit”?
One of the most challenging parts of playing “Smells Like Teen Spirit” is the fast and aggressive strumming pattern. The song requires a consistent and powerful strumming hand to maintain the energy and drive of the track.
Question 2: What type of guitar is best for playing “Smells Like Teen Spirit”?
While “Smells Like Teen Spirit” can be played on any electric guitar, a solid-body guitar with humbucking pickups is recommended. Humbuckers provide a thicker and more distorted sound, which is essential for capturing the song’s grunge aesthetic.
Question 3: What are the most important techniques to master for playing “Smells Like Teen Spirit”?
Mastering palm muting, power chords, and barre chords is crucial for playing “Smells Like Teen Spirit.” Palm muting creates the song’s signature percussive sound, while power chords and barre chords form the foundation of the song’s harmonic structure.
Question 4: How can I improve my accuracy when playing the “Smells Like Teen Spirit” riff?
Practice the riff slowly and gradually increase the speed as you become more comfortable. Focus on maintaining a consistent strumming pattern and fretting the notes cleanly. Using a metronome can also help improve accuracy and timing.
Question 5: What other Nirvana songs are good for practicing the techniques used in “Smells Like Teen Spirit”?
Other Nirvana songs that utilize similar techniques include “Come as You Are,” “Lithium,” and “Heart-Shaped Box.” Practicing these songs can help improve overall playing skills and reinforce the techniques required for “Smells Like Teen Spirit.”
Question 6: What are some tips for playing “Smells Like Teen Spirit” live?
When playing “Smells Like Teen Spirit” live, it’s important to manage the song’s energy levels. Start with a strong and aggressive attack, but be prepared to adjust the dynamics throughout the performance. Maintaining clear communication with the band is also essential to ensure a cohesive and powerful live rendition.
Summary: Mastering “Smells Like Teen Spirit” requires dedication, practice, and a solid understanding of essential guitar techniques. By addressing common challenges and misconceptions, these FAQs provide a comprehensive guide to help aspiring guitarists conquer this iconic grunge anthem.
Transition: Explore the next section to delve deeper into the historical context, cultural impact, and enduring legacy of “Smells Like Teen Spirit.”
Tips for Playing “Smells Like Teen Spirit”
Mastering “Smells Like Teen Spirit” requires dedication and a solid understanding of essential guitar techniques. Here are some tips to help you conquer this iconic grunge anthem:
Tip 1: Practice Regularly
Consistency is key. Regular practice will improve your accuracy, speed, and overall playing skills.
Tip 2: Master Palm Muting
Palm muting is the rhythmic technique used to create the song’s signature percussive sound. Practice muting the strings while strumming to achieve the desired effect.
Tip 3: Focus on Power Chords
Power chords are the foundation of the song’s harmonic structure. Familiarize yourself with the power chord shapes and practice transitioning between them smoothly.
Tip 4: Practice Barre Chords
Barre chords are used in the song’s bridge section. Practice forming these chords correctly to ensure clean and accurate execution.
Tip 5: Use a Metronome
A metronome can help you maintain a steady tempo and improve your overall timing. Practice with the metronome to develop a consistent strumming pattern.
Tip 6: Listen to the Original Recording
Listen attentively to the original recording to familiarize yourself with the song’s dynamics, guitar tone, and overall feel. This will help you capture the essence of the song in your own playing.
Summary: By following these tips, you can develop the skills necessary to play “Smells Like Teen Spirit” with confidence and authenticity. Remember, practice, patience, and a genuine passion for music are essential ingredients for mastering this iconic anthem.
Transition: Explore the next section to delve deeper into the historical context, cultural impact, and enduring legacy of “Smells Like Teen Spirit.”
Conclusion
Mastering “Smells Like Teen Spirit” is a testament to the enduring power of music. Through its exploration of essential guitar techniques, this article has provided a comprehensive guide to conquering this iconic grunge anthem. By practicing regularly, focusing on palm muting, power chords, and barre chords, and immersing oneself in the original recording, aspiring guitarists can unlock the secrets of this timeless song.
Beyond its technical intricacies, “Smells Like Teen Spirit” stands as a symbol of teenage angst, rebellion, and the raw energy of the grunge era. Its impact on popular culture is undeniable, having inspired countless musicians and shaping the sound of a generation. As we continue to celebrate its legacy, let us remember the enduring power of music to connect, inspire, and resonate with our deepest emotions.
