Introduction

Introduction:

In this video lesson Mike Walker teaches how to play the song Home as part of our guitar series on English songs. The song is broken down into multiple lessons for easy learning. Home is the coronation song and a debut single from the winner of American Idol season 11, Phill Phillips. The song was co-written by Drew Pearson and Greg Holden. Phill performed this song for the first time on May 12th, 2012, when he was giving the season's final performance. 

Song Structure:

Introduction: The introduction consists of tuning requirements for the guitar and the basics of what you need to play this song. 

Song Arrangement: This part helps you learn about the intro section. Also, Mike shows you two different picking patterns that you can use for this song and how to move back and forth between the two patterns. 

Song Demo: In this section Mike your guitar instructor is going to teach you how to play the guitar parts of the song alongside backing tracks. 

Vocal Melody: This is the final section of this guitar lesson, and it's the added bonus where Mike teaches you how to play the vocal melody which is present in the song. 

Chords Used in Song Guitar Lesson: The entire song is written in the key of C major with a bright tempo.

B.Y.O.B. – Introduction

Welcome to the guitar lesson on one of the greatest anti-establishment rebellion songs that brings together metal, punk, and Middle Eastern melodies into a politically charged anthem. – B.Y.O.B. by System of a Down. The song has been received with love across the world and has won a Grammy for the best hard rock performance in 2006. The song has amassed more than 500 million views on YouTube since its release in 2005.

The song name is an acronym for Bring Your Own Bombs, and was made as a form of protest against the american coalition led Iraq War (2003–2011), with lyrics calling out, “Why don't presidents fight the war? Why do they always send the poor?”. It is a song written in strong political commentary on the situation of wars and oppression around the world. The band has a reputation for speaking out for social justice and matters like drug abuse, politics, and suicide in the heavy metal genre.

B.Y.O.B. Guitar Lesson

The lesson on B.Y.O.B. is brought to you by our beloved instructor, Mike Walker, who demonstrates the song in its entirety and explains all parts of the song in great detail. Since this is a heavy metal song, there are a number of unconventional rhythmic patterns and fast melodic lines for the electric guitar, which is a signature sound for this genre of music.

The song is in the key of F major, but the tuning is half a step down; all the strings are tuned down a semitone. This, firstly, widens or brightens the tone, which makes it feel ‘heavy’ and secondly, loosens the strings, which makes it easier to play at a high tempo.

The lesson is easier to master as it only requires rhythmic proficiency to play in its entirety. The song is very drums and lyrics forward, as is with most heavy metal songs. The song is fun to play because of the distorted tone of the guitar. It’s a saturated machine-like sound that has low-frequency notes, which give it a slightly percussive vibe, usually called ‘djent’.

This is also a short lesson, taught easily by Mike, comfortably suited for beginners and advanced players alike.

FAQs

Q. Can I play BYOB in standard tuning?

Yes, you can play BYOB in standard tuning, but then you’ll have to play the song in E major instead of F major, and you’ll also lose the ‘crunch’ in the strumming.

Q. How to sound like Daron Malakian?

If you want to sound like Malakian, you need an Ibanez Iceman DMM1 guitar, going into a Boss HM-2 Heavy Metal distortion pedal, into a Marshall MF350 amp.

Q. Can I play this on an acoustic guitar?

Yes, you can, but it will not have the rage that is needed to lead a rebellion against the war profiteering world leaders.

Game of Throne Rock Version Cover by Kfir Ochaion - Introduction

The "Game of Thrones" theme is one of the most recognizable TV scores ever written, and Kfir Ochaion’s rock cover gives it a powerful new energy. Kfir is an Israeli guitarist known for turning vocal melodies into expressive guitar lines. His version takes the original orchestral arrangement and transforms it into a full rock instrumental, complete with soaring leads and heavy rhythms. The cover stays true to the epic feel of the original while adding guitar-driven intensity.

Kfir Ochaion started playing guitar at age 10, inspired by classic rock legends. His YouTube channel, launched in 2014, has grown to over 2.2 million subscribers thanks to his unique style. He doesn’t just play the notes—he makes the guitar "sing" like a human voice. This "Game of Thrones" cover is a great example of his approach, where every bend and vibrato mimics the drama of the original melody. His version keeps the song’s grand scale but makes it fit perfectly for electric guitar.

Game of Throne Rock Version Cover by Kfir Ochaion Guitar Lesson

Taught by Mike Walker, this lesson breaks down Kfir Ochaion’s rock arrangement of the "Game of Thrones" theme. The song is in E minor, and the main melody follows the original tune closely but with added rock techniques. The opening riff uses sustained notes with wide vibrato to copy the horn section from the TV version. The left hand must control each note’s pitch carefully to keep the melody sounding smooth and powerful.

The rhythm parts use palm-muted power chords to build tension in the verses. The pre-chorus switches to open chords with ringing arpeggios, creating contrast before the heavy riff returns. Kfir’s version includes a guitar solo section that wasn’t in the original. This solo uses the E harmonic minor scale for a dramatic, cinematic sound. Fast alternate picking runs and controlled bends make this part challenging but rewarding to learn.

For the main theme, Kfir uses slides and legato to connect notes fluidly. The phrasing is key, with pauses in the right places. The chorus brings big power chords and double stops to thicken the sound. Dynamic control is crucial here, as the part shifts between loud, aggressive strums and softer, cleaner passages.

Beginners should start by learning the melody slowly, focusing on note accuracy before adding vibrato. Intermediate players can work on the solo’s faster licks and the precise muting needed for the rhythm parts. Advanced guitarists should study how Kfir blends techniques—hybrid picking, bends, and harmonics—to make the guitar sound almost orchestral.

FAQs

Q. What effects does Kfir use in this cover?

A medium-gain overdrive, delay for atmosphere, and reverb to create space.

Q. Is this song good for beginners?

The melody is playable at slower speeds, but the solo and dynamic control require intermediate skills.

Q. How do I practice the fast alternate picking parts?

Use a metronome starting at half speed. Increase tempo only when you can play cleanly.

Black Magic Woman - Introduction

"Black Magic Woman" is one of Santana’s most famous songs, though it was originally written by Peter Green of Fleetwood Mac in 1968. Santana’s 1970 version, featured on the album Abraxas, transformed the track into a Latin rock masterpiece. The song blends bluesy guitar riffs with Afro-Latin percussion, creating a hypnotic and rhythmic groove. Carlos Santana’s smooth yet fiery guitar playing gives the track its signature sound, making it instantly recognizable.

The lyrics tell the story of a man enchanted by a mysterious woman, a common theme in blues music. Santana’s version extends the original with an instrumental section that transitions into "Gypsy Queen," a piece by jazz guitarist Gábor Szabó. This fusion of styles helped define Latin rock and cemented Santana’s place in music history. The song became a massive hit, reaching No. 4 on the Billboard Hot 100 in 1971, and remains a classic rock staple today.

Black Magic Woman Guitar Lesson

Taught by Mike Walker, this lesson breaks down how to play "Black Magic Woman" in the original key. The song revolves around three main chords: Dm7, Am7, and Gm7, giving it a moody, bluesy feel. The rhythm follows a Latin-inspired groove, with a steady pulse that makes it perfect for practicing timing and feel.

The intro features Santana’s iconic minor pentatonic lick, played with smooth bends and vibrato. The verse uses a repeating chord progression (Dm7 - Am7 - Gm7 - Dm7), with a laid-back strumming pattern that locks in with the percussion. The chorus shifts to a more open sound, letting the chords ring out before returning to the verse groove.

For the solo sections, Santana uses the D minor pentatonic scale (D-F-G-A-C) with added bluesy bends and expressive phrasing. The key is to play with emotion—let notes sustain, add vibrato, and slide between positions for that signature Santana sound. The transition into "Gypsy Queen" introduces faster, more intricate picking patterns, so start slow and focus on clarity.

Beginners should first master the chord changes and basic rhythm. Intermediate players can work on the intro riff and solo licks, paying attention to bends and vibrato. Advanced players should experiment with improvisation over the Dm7 vamp, using Santana’s phrasing as inspiration.

FAQs

Q. What tuning is used for this song?

Standard tuning (EADGBE)—no drop tuning or capo needed.

Q. How do I get Santana’s tone?

Use a smooth overdrive (not too distorted), with slight delay and reverb. Roll off some treble for warmth.

Q. What’s the strumming pattern?

A relaxed down-down-up with emphasis on beats 2 and 4 to match the Latin groove.

Q. Can I play this without a band?

Yes, but focus on keeping the rhythm tight—the groove is essential.

Q. How do I practice the bends in the solo?

Start slow, ensuring each bend reaches the correct pitch (e.g., bend G to A in the D minor scale).

Tere Mere Beech Mein is a song that has a strong sense of melody; it can also be used to practice chord transitions, and allows you to express emotions via guitar. If you are someone who performs, this one song is a must-have in the set list of your acoustic performance. Unlike most of the love songs that are part of Bollywood movies, Tere Mere Beech Mein is a bit different; the song does not idealise love; it shows the modern reality of relationships with a cheeky twist, which made its video more memorable.

Song Structure

Introduction: The introduction is from Mike Walker, who tells you how the song has a bit of a jazz feel to it. Along with this, he also tells how this song uses some really nice chords and licks, which are not easy to play but can be learned with practice.

Song Arrangement - Section A: The lesson is divided into different sections, this particular section starts at the beginning of the song and it continues till one minute, and even in this lick you will find little breaks present in it.

Song Arrangement - Sections B and C: In this part of the guitar lesson, you will find tunes and chords that keep on repeating themselves throughout the song. As a result, this section is quite literally the most important section to learn if you want to play this song on guitar.

Song Arrangement - Sections D, E, and F: The D section is only played once in the entire song, after which come E and F, which come at the end of the song.

Song Demo: In this part, you will find Mike playing the guitar parts of the song with the backing track to show you how you should be syncing up your guitar chords with those of the vocals and other instruments that are present in the song.

Overdub Licks: The overdub licks are basically the extra guitar chords that play on top of the main guitar. You can play a song without these, but adding them to your arsenal will help you become a better guitarist.

Easy Version: This particular section shows you how to play the easier version, which is specifically designed for those who are looking to sing and play the song altogether.

Why Learn Tere Mere Beech Mein Song?

The song uses both major and minor chords effectively; it is not easy to learn, but definitely worth a try even for beginners, as they will get to know about various technicalities of guitar playing. In addition to this, it’s a perfect song to practice lead melody on guitar or accompany a lead vocalist with lush chords.

Bolna is a beautiful romantic song from the 2016 Bollywood movie Kapoor & Sons, known for its soft melody and emotional depth. Sung by Arijit Singh and Asees Kaur, the track quickly became a favorite for its heartfelt lyrics and the way it captures the delicate feelings of love and longing. The song’s title, which means "Speak, my beloved," hints at the gentle plea for connection and openness between two people, which fits perfectly with the film’s story about complicated relationships and emotional honesty.

What makes Bolna special is how it combines traditional Indian music elements with modern sounds, giving it a timeless vibe that appeals to listeners across generations. The music arrangement uses simple yet rich chords and soft instrumentation that support the vocals without overpowering them. The song’s popularity was boosted not only by its emotional impact but also by its music video featuring the film’s stars, adding a visual layer to the story of love and vulnerability that the lyrics express.

Bolna – Guitar Lesson

In this lesson, Steve Luciano takes you through the gentle guitar parts that shape Bolna’s soothing atmosphere. The song is played in the key of F major, which is bright and warm, setting the perfect mood for a romantic ballad. It starts with a delicate arpeggio pattern on the F major and G major chords, where the notes of each chord are played one by one rather than strummed all at once. This picking style gives the song its soft, flowing feel right from the beginning.

The chord progression is straightforward but rich, moving through chords like F, Bb, Dm7, Am7, and Gm7. These chords include some minor sevenths and major sevenths, which add a smooth, jazzy flavor to the harmony without making it complicated. Steve breaks down how to play each chord cleanly and how to move between them smoothly, which is key to keeping the song’s gentle and emotional tone intact.

Steve also explains some subtle techniques like fingerpicking and how to emphasize certain notes in the arpeggio to bring out the melody within the chords. This approach helps players understand how to make a simple chord progression sound expressive and full of feeling. By following Steve’s step-by-step guide, guitarists can learn to capture the song’s soft dynamics and emotional nuances, making Bolna a great practice piece for anyone looking to improve fingerstyle playing and chord transitions.

FAQs

Q. What key is Bolna played in?

Bolna is in the key of F major, which gives the song its warm, romantic feel.

Q. What guitar technique is used in the intro of Bolna?

The intro uses arpeggios, where the notes of the chords are picked one at a time, creating a flowing melody.

Main Tenu Samjhawan Ki is a song that has a romantic melody and comes with heartfelt lyrics, thus making it a crowd pleaser, and you can even use it to impress someone close to you. The melody of the song complements the vocal expressions, so if you are looking for a song to improve your singing and guitar skills, then there’s no better love song than this one. 

Rahat Fateh Ali Khan sang the original song Main Tenu Samjhawan Ki for the Punjabi film Virsa (2010). The song quickly became a cult classic in Pakistan, who love to listen to indie music, and after that, Bollywood brought this song to Indian audiences. 

Strumming Pattern 

For the mellow vibe of the song, we have come up with a simple strumming pattern which goes like this: D–D UUD– UUD D–

• D = Down Strum. 
• U = Up Strum. 

To play this strumming pattern with precision, you should start with a gentle Down-Down, make sure you keep the strumming more relaxed and smooth, because the song is quite emotional and has a flowing feel to it. If you wish, you can slightly vary the dynamics during the verse and chorus sections of the song. 

Technical Skills You Are Going To Learn From The Guitar Lesson Of Main Tenu Samjhawan Ki-

Here’s what you are going to learn in this guitar lesson, instructed by Steve Luciano:

• Open chords and smooth transitions, which help you in improving left-hand flexibility and timing. 
• You will be developing expressive strumming patterns in order to match the song's emotional tonality. 
• Besides this, you can also incorporate expressive touch via fingerpicking, which allows you to mimic the original instrumental texture of the song. 

Why Learn the Main Tenu Samjhawan Ki Song On Guitar?

The song Main Tenu Samjhawan Ki is built on gentle and repetitive chord progressions, which are easy to play, so much so that even a beginner can play it after learning a few basic chords. At the same time, these chords pack a powerful yet ideal pattern that you can use for understanding strumming control and smooth transitions. 

FAQs – Main Tenu Samjhawan Ki Song Guitar Lesson

Q1. Do I need a capo to play the song Main Tenu Samjhawan Ki on my guitar?

Ans. See, a capo is optional if you are playing the song in its original key, but if you wish to use a capo, you can put it on the 3rd fret. On the other hand, if you are going with the male vocals, then it would be best to play the song without using a capo. 

Q2. Can I play this song on the guitar while singing it at the same time? 

Ans. Yes, that would be great. This is a perfect song for practicing strumming and singing together, all thanks to its slow tempo and predictable rhythm. 

In this video lesson Steve Luciano teaches how to play the song Baatein Ye Kabhi Na (Khamoshiyan) as part of our Guitar series on song lessons. The song lesson is broken down into multiple lessons for easy learning - Introduction and Song Arrangement. Don't forget to make use of the chords and tabs provided with the song lesson!

Welcome to the guitar lesson for Main Rahoon Ya Na Rahoon, a touching Hindi song that became hugely popular soon after its release in 2015. Sung by Armaan Malik and composed by Amaal Mallik, the song beautifully captures the feeling of love that stays alive even when two people are apart. The lyrics express this emotional idea in a simple but powerful way, with lines like “Main rahoon ya na rahoon, tum mujh mein kahin baaki rehna,” meaning “Whether I am here or not, stay somewhere inside me.” 

The song’s music video adds another layer to the story, featuring Bollywood actors Emraan Hashmi and Esha Gupta, shot in the picturesque setting of Goa. The visuals tell a gentle, heartfelt tale of two people connected by love despite their struggles. The song has been praised for its emotional depth and was recognized with awards for both its music and video, which speaks to how much it resonated with fans. It’s a song that feels personal and timeless, making it perfect for anyone who wants to learn a romantic, meaningful tune on guitar.

Main Rahoon Ya Na Rahoon – Guitar Lesson

In this lesson, instructor Steve Luciano breaks down a simple version of Main Rahoon Ya Na Rahoon that’s perfect for beginner and intermediate players. The chords used in the song include G, D7, Em7, Am7, Dsus4, B7, A, F, and Fmaj7. Steve carefully explains each chord, focusing on making them easy to switch between, so the song flows smoothly. 

He also shows how to handle the more complex chords like F and Fmaj7 by using simplified finger positions that still sound full but aren’t overwhelming for new players.

Steve’s approach to teaching the strumming pattern is relaxed and easy to follow. He demonstrates a gentle rhythm that fits the soft mood of the song, helping learners capture the emotional tone without rushing or overcomplicating things. 

The pattern combines downward and upward strums in a way that supports the vocal melody, making it easier for those who want to sing along while playing. Steve also encourages players to listen closely to the original track to get a feel for the pacing and dynamics.

Beyond chords and strumming, Steve touches on small musical details like where to let notes ring longer and how to add little pauses for effect. These subtle tips help bring out the song’s tender vibe and make your playing sound more expressive. He also offers advice on timing changes, especially around the chorus, so you can keep the song’s natural flow. 

The lesson is designed to make the learning process feel smooth and enjoyable, even if you’re new to guitar.

FAQs

Q. Is this version good for beginners?

Yes, Steve’s simplified chord shapes and strumming pattern are beginner-friendly and easy to follow.

Q. Can I play this song without barre chords?

Absolutely. Steve shows easier alternatives for the harder chords so you don’t have to use barre chords if you’re not comfortable with them yet.

In this video lesson Mike Walker teaches how to play the song Har Saans Mein as part of our guitar series on Indian songs. The song is broken down into multiple lessons for easy learning - Introduction, Song Arrangement , Easy Version, Song Demo, Solo 1, Solo 2, Solo 3, Solo 4 and Overdub Licks and Improvisation. Don't forget to make use of the chords and tabs provided with the song lesson!