Introduction

Taught by

Mike Walker

While My Guitar Gently Weeps

by Mike Dugan

Introduction

Tune into another guitar lesson on a popular Beatles song on Torrins.com, While My Guitar Gently Weeps written by George Harrison, taught by Mike Dugan. He makes learning this song fun, easy, and rewarding! He breaks this guitar song lesson into various sections like Introduction, Chords & Rhythm, Verse & Chorus (singing), Advanced Rhythm, and Solo Improvisation.

Fun Fact: George Harrison wrote While My Guitar Gently Weeps as an exercise in randomness after his return from India, where the Beatles studied Transcendental Meditation. Inspired by the idea that nothing is coincidental, he opened a book at random, saw the words "gently weeps," and turned them into one of his most iconic songs.

Chords Used in While My Guitar Gently Weeps Guitar Lesson

The guitar lesson on While My Guitar Gently Weeps is taught using chords like Am, Am/G, D7/F#, to name a few. It also involves some barre chords. Tune in to the complete guitar song lesson to know the rest of the chords that make up this song.

This version of While My Guitar Gently Weeps is played in the key of A minor. The song includes a mix of open and barre chords, adding depth and complexity to the arrangement.

The bridge introduces barre chords like C#m and F#m. Mike shares some great tips on transitioning between these barre chords smoothly, essential for mastering the flow of the song.

Strumming Pattern

For beginners, Mike keeps it simple with an easy 4-down-strum pattern that’s great for building confidence.

For intermediate and advanced players, he introduces a more intricate alternating rhythm:

DUDUDU – accenting beats two and four (like most rock songs) for a more dynamic feel.

Song Structure

The song follows a clear and repeatable structure that gives it a steady flow and allows for expressive variation. It begins with an intro, setting the tone before moving into Verse 1 and Verse 2, which establish the core melody and lyrical theme. The bridge introduces a vocal shift, featuring a touch of falsetto to accommodate the slightly higher notes, adding emotional lift and dynamic contrast. Following this, the guitar solo steps in, showcasing expressive phrasing built on the A minor pentatonic scale. The playing style, marked by smooth vibrato and a warm overdrive tone, is clearly inspired by Eric Clapton’s bluesy sensibilities. The structure then returns to the bridge and another verse, before easing into a jam section. This relaxed closing passage offers space for personal interpretation and creative improvisation, making it a satisfying conclusion to the track..

Mike teaches how to sync your singing with chord changes by accenting the words that align with the next chord. This makes it easier to play and sing simultaneously.

Improvisation Techniques

In the solo section, Mike offers a detailed breakdown of how to use the A minor pentatonic scale to craft expressive, personality-filled solos in the style of Eric Clapton.

He walks you through essential techniques like achieving smooth vibrato, bending notes accurately to stay in pitch, and adjusting your speed and tone to create a polished, professional sound. If vibrato has been a sticking point for you, Mike dedicates extra time to break down the technique in a way that's easy to grasp. And if you’re looking for more practice, our dedicated vibrato lessons are just a click away.

Why Learn While My Guitar Gently Weeps?

Great choice of song for working on barre chord transitions.
The solo section introduces you to classic rock licks, helping you develop a more expressive playing style.

Tips for Better Playing

Keep your strumming hand moving consistently to maintain rhythm.
Focus on clean chord transitions, especially in the bridge.
Practice the solo slowly first, then build up speed gradually.

FAQs – While My Guitar Gently Weeps Guitar Lesson

Q1. Is this song beginner-friendly?

There is a beginner version of this song which focuses on a simple strumming pattern.

Q2. Do I need to use falsetto when singing the bridge?

It’s optional—but using falsetto adds a smoother tone. Mike shows how to adjust based on your vocal range.

easy

Rock

Taught by

Mike Dugan

Snowtime Intermediate Version

by Steve Luciano

To become a well-rounded guitarist or to witness the magic of James Taylor’s fingerpicking at its best, you need to learn the intermediate guitar version of the song Snowtime. This is the one-song lesson that serves as a perfect blend of technical as well as musical growth; in addition to this, the entire guitar lesson is pure playing satisfaction.

With this intermediate version of the song Snowtime, you will be introduced to Travis playing, in addition to the subtle-note alternations, a skill that develops precision and independence between thumb and fingers.

Musically speaking, the song slowly builds on soft and flowing acoustic guitar with unmistakable smooth vocals layered on top of them. From this lesson, you are going to capture the serene and contemplative mood present in the song, which is quite often associated with winter. It’s a song that teaches you that sometimes simplicity when executed with proper finesse, can create a powerful musical experience.

Strumming Pattern

The song is known for its gentle fingerpicking, but when it comes to learning the intermediate version, then you have to follow the given strumming pattern to capture a laid-back and flowing feel of the song: D – D U – U D U.

D = Down Strum.
U = Up Strum.

If you wish to add more feel to the song, you can use this optional strumming variation: D – D – x – U – D U.

D = Down Strum.
U = Up Strum.
X = muted percussive strumming, which helps you add texture without overpowering the song.

Strumming works well in this song, but if you wish to capture the sound of the original recording truly, we would advise you to blend light fingerpicking with strumming transitions.

Why Learn Snowtime Song Intermediate Version On Guitar?

Snowtime by James Taylor is considered to be the perfect first step towards learning fingerstyling with light strumming; this lesson simplifies the intricate part just enough that the song lesson becomes a bit challenging and, at the same time, rewarding.

It’s a song that requires you to play your guitar gently and cleanly and follow the required rhythm. The kind of control you will learn in this song lesson will take you one level above beginners and make your sound stage-ready.

Here, you will be playing open chords, which come with tasteful embellishments; this helps you in mastering transitions while still showing you how to add musical sophistication to your guitar playing.

Snowtime is being played at a steady, reflective pace; playing it on guitar trains your mind and hands-on timing; as a result, with this slow tempo, you will learn to avoid rushing and lock your chord progression with vocals.

Taught by

Steve Luciano

Lovesong

by Mike Walker

In this video lesson J.J. Pattishall teaches how to play the song Settle Down as part of our guitar series on English songs. The song is broken down into multiple lessons for easy learning - Introduction, Chords and Rhythm, Song Arrangement, Singing and Playing and Song Demo. Don't forget to make use of the chords and tabs provided with the song lesson!

Taught by

Mike Walker

Settle Down

by J.J. Pattishall

Taught by

J.J. Pattishall

Birds of a Feather

by Pranay Verma

Pop

Taught by

Pranay Verma

Love Story

by J.J. Pattishall

Pop

Taught by

J.J. Pattishall

Goodbye Blue Sky

by Steve Luciano

Introduction

Tune into a simple fingerpicking guitar song lesson on "Goodbye Blue Sky" on Torrins. This lesson is led by our instructor, Steve Luciano, who breaks down the various sections of the song for easy understanding. This Goodbye Blue Sky guitar tutorial covers the strumming pattern, fretting, and rhythm techniques that make this song sound so great.

Interesting Fact: The song’s soft, almost lullaby-like melody is a stark contrast to its dark theme of war and destruction. Roger Waters wrote it as a reflection of his childhood memories of the London Blitz during World War II. The track opens with a child's voice saying, "Look, mummy, there's an aeroplane up in the sky!"—a chilling moment that symbolizes the innocence of youth being shattered by the horrors of war.

Chords & Tuning

"Goodbye Blue Sky" is a simple fingerpicking song. Before getting started, tune your 6th string to Drop D—this gives the song its deep, resonant tone.

Fingerpicking Pattern

The fingerpicking technique adds an intricate and melodic touch to this song while keeping the rhythm steady, making this song perfect for practising control and precision.

Song Structure & Techniques

The song kicks off with a repeating section that features pull-offs, adding a smooth, connected feel to the melody. This section repeats four times and helps build fluidity in your playing. If you’re still getting comfortable with pull-offs, be sure to explore our in-depth lesson on this essential technique.

As the arrangement develops, you’ll come across hammer-ons, which lend a punchier articulation to the notes. Steve also incorporates power chords, specifically B and F#, along with an open G, contributing to a fuller, more dynamic sound. Later in the progression, he introduces barre chords across the 2nd and 3rd strings, creating a seamless, flowing texture. These techniques come together to give the song its distinct blues-rock character while helping you improve precision and control.

Learning Made Easier

The 3-angle camera view makes learning such songs so much easier. With dedicated angles on strumming, fretting, and an overall view, you get a detailed, close-up look at all the intricate finger movements, helping you learn efficiently and effectively.

Pro Tip for Mastering the Song

Steve recommends breaking the song into sections and practising each part individually before putting everything together. This will ensure you develop muscle memory for clean and precise playing.

FAQs – "Goodbye Blue Sky" Guitar Lesson

Q1. Is this song beginner-friendly?

A: While the song follows a simple fingerpicking style, it requires coordination and control. It's great for beginners looking to build finger independence and practice melodic fingerpicking.

Q2. Do I need to use a pick for this song?

A: No, this song is best played with fingerpicking, which gives it its signature soft and flowing sound.

Q3. What’s the best way to improve my fingerpicking accuracy?

A: Slow down and focus on precision before building up speed. Keep your right hand relaxed, and ensure each note rings out clearly.

moderate

Rock

Taught by

Steve Luciano

You Shook Me All Night Long

by Mike Walker

Introduction

AC/DC is a hard rock band from Australia. The band recorded the song "You Shook Me All Night Long," which appeared in their album Back In Black. Ozzest 100 considers it one of the most Australian songs of all time.

According to rock critic Robert Christgau, this song was the only great work of art from the band. If you ever get to witness AC/DC live, you will surely hear this song, which has become a staple of the band's live performances.

In this video lesson Mike Walker teaches how to play the song You Shook Me All Night Long as part of our guitar series on English songs. The song is broken down into multiple lessons for easy learning - Introduction, Song Arrangement, Song Demo and Solo Lesson. Don't forget to make use of the chords and tabs provided with the song lesson!

Chords Used in Song Guitar Lesson

Arpeggios Verse & Chorus Chords: The song is in the key of G major and uses lots of open chords.

Song Structure

Introduction: In the introduction, Mike Walker teaches you how to tune up your guitar for this song. He also discusses the open chords you will use in this song and the G pentatonic bass chords in the solo section.

Song Arrangement: Here, you will learn how to play the iconic guitar introduction of the song. Mike also shares tips on where to play specific chords so you can quickly transition to open chords.

Song Demo: Here, Mike plays the guitar chords with the backing track to explain how to keep up with the song and maintain the rhythm.

Solo Lesson: This is the most interesting part of the song and of this guitar lesson. In this part, you learn how to play Angus Young's electric guitar solo and tips to make it sound exactly like him.

Taught by

Mike Walker

Smooth

by Mike Walker

Introduction:

Smooth By Santana is a mix of rock, blues, and it combines some melodies of Latin rhythms as well. So if you are someone who is interested in learning the ways of Santana this should be a great starting point for your musical journey.

Fun Fact: In the beginning the song was called Room 17 and the idea of the song came to the mind of Itaal Shur, but then lyrics were all take out from the song and it was given to Rob Thomas, who completely re-wrote the song and changed its original melody, that’s how Smooth came into existence by Santana.

Chords Used in Song Guitar Lesson

Arpeggios Verse & Chorus Chords: The arpeggios for this song are as follows:

e|------1-------------|

B|----3---3----------|

G|--2-------2--------|

D|--------------------|

A|--------------------|

E|--------------------|

Strumming Pattern

There are two strumming patterns for this song, the first one is pretty basic and you can play it like this: DD UU DU.

D = Down Strum
U = Up Strum

Or you can play this version which adds more groove to the song: DD X UDU.

D = Down Strum
U = Up Strum
X = Muted Strum

Song Structure

Introduction: In this introduction, Mike is going to show you how to tune up your guitar for this song.

Song Arrangement: Here, you will learn about the different guitar rhythms that you will be following as you play the song. Mike starts explaining every rhythm starting with the intro section.

Song Demo: Over here, Mike is going to show you how to play the guitar parts of the song with the backing track.

Solo 1: From this part, you will start learning how to play different solos which come in the song. This is the first solo performed by Santana in the first part of the song.

Overdub Licks: This particular section shows how to play a particular lick which is being played at the 32 second of the track.

Solo 2: This is the second solo from the song.

Solo 3: Solo which comes after the verses.

Outro Solo: This one is the last solo which Santana played and it was used as an outro for the song.

Why Learn Smooth By Santana?

Carlos Santana is known throughout the world for his amazing phrasing and his ability to sustain heavy tones on the guitar. As you learn this song, you will get to know about techniques like Vibrato, sustain, melodic soloing and smooth transition between the lead and the rhythm of the song.

FAQs-This Song Guitar Lesson

Q1. Who originally sang “Smooth?”

Ans. Smooth was performed by Santana & Rob Thomas who were part of a band called Matchbox Twenty. This song was released as a lead single from the 1999s studio album, Supernatural.

Q2. What made Santana so famous in the music industry?

Ans. Santana became much more popular after their incredible set which they performed live at Woodstock in 1969. In that same year, the band also released their self-entitled LP as well.

Q3. Is Santana considered to be a good guitarist of his time?

Ans. Santana is known to be the man who invented the Latin rock guitar genre, making it stand as one of the best of his generation.

Taught by

Mike Walker

Similar Rock Songs

Good Times Bad Times

by Mike Dugan

Good Times Bad Times - Introduction

Good Times Bad Times" is the first song on Led Zeppelin's 1969 debut album. The band released it as their first single in America. John Paul Jones wrote the main riff on a Hammond organ before playing it on bass. Jimmy Page used a Fender Telecaster guitar with a Tone Bender pedal for a fuzzy sound.

John Bonham played fast triplets on his bass drum with one foot. This drum technique impressed Jimi Hendrix. Robert Plant recorded his vocals twice to make them sound thicker. The song was almost called "A Man I Know" before they changed the title.

Good Times Bad Times Guitar Lesson

Mike Dugan's lesson breaks down every essential element of this classic track. The song's foundation lies in its deceptively simple power chord progression in E major. What makes it unique is the sliding technique between chords rather than the typical staccato approach. When playing the main riff (E5-D5-A5), focus on smoothly gliding between positions while maintaining steady palm muting for that tight, punchy sound. The verse rhythm follows a syncopated pattern that locks perfectly with John Bonham's groundbreaking drum work.

The guitar solo represents one of Jimmy Page's most inventive early recordings. Using a Leslie speaker cabinet (typically used for organs), Page created that distinctive swirling, phase-shifted tone. The solo primarily uses the E minor pentatonic scale (E-G-A-B-D) but incorporates several blues techniques. Pay special attention to the quick hammer-on/pull-off licks between the 12th and 15th frets on the B string, and the dramatic whole-step bends on the G string at the 14th fret. The solo's second half features rapid alternate picking that requires precise right-hand control.

For the rhythm parts, the secret lies in the dynamic contrast between sections. The verses use a tight, muted strumming pattern (down-up-down-up with emphasis on beats 2 and 4), while the choruses open up with full, ringing chords. Notice how Page slightly delays his strums during the verses to create that signature laid-back groove. The bridge section introduces a clever variation with quick chord changes (E-D-C#m-B) that build tension before returning to the main riff.

Advanced players should study the subtle nuances that make this recording special. Page's use of partial chords (often just the root and fifth with occasional added octaves) creates a lean, powerful sound. His muting technique - a combination of left-hand fret muting and right-hand palm muting - gives the rhythm parts their distinctive percussive quality. For authentic tone, use a Telecaster with the tone knob rolled back slightly, a medium-gain overdrive, and a small tube amp set clean with just a touch of natural breakup.

FAQs

Q. What tuning does this song use?

Standard tuning (E A D G B E). No special tuning needed.

Q. Is this song good for beginners?

The power chords are easy, but the slides and strumming take practice.

Q. What guitar effects were used?

Page used a Tone Bender fuzz pedal and Leslie speaker on the solo.

Taught by

Mike Dugan

Final Countdown

by Mike Walker

Introduction:

The Final Countdown is the iconic song of Swedish rock band Europe which was released in 1986. The song was written by lead singer Joey Tempest.

Strumming Pattern

This song has a mix of palm-muting rhythm, open strumming, and melodic lead parts. The common strumming pattern which you can follow for this song is D D D D D D D D .

Make sure to keep your strokes short and control them using palm muting.

Song Structure

Introduction: In this section your guitar instructor Mike Walker is going to teach you how to tune your guitar in order to use it for the song.

Intro Parts: In this part of the guitar lesson your guitar instructor is going to show you how to play the synth part which comes in the intro of the song.

Song Arrangement Part 1: This section shows how you should be playing the verse section of the song and you will be playing these particular chords twice in the song.

Song Arrangement Part 2: Here, Mike shows you how to play the interlude, which is present in the song and is played alongside crash symbols.

Song Demo: This is the part where Mike Walke shows you how to play the guitar parts with the backing track.

Main Motif: This is the section where you will learn how to play the iconic motif, which

makes the song so memorable and classic.

Solo Lesson: Mike shares his knowledge of how you should be playing the harmonic solo of

this song in addition to the guitar chords.

Harmony Solo: This particular guitar part is played above the arpeggios section of the song.

Why Learn Final Countdown Song On Guitar By Europe Song?

Final Countdown is more than just a rock song, it's a rock anthem which has an instantly recognizable melody which is played at the beginning of the song.

The main keyboard riff can be easily played on guitar and learning it will help you practice lead techniques. The intro and the verse are great for learning melodic playing which is used a lot of time in rock music.

FAQs – This Song Guitar Lesson

Q1. Why is the Final Countdown so Famous?

Ans. The song reached number spot in 25 different countries, it is Europe’s only top 10 hit to this day. In addition to this, it is the band's most popular song of all time, the song which made the band famous all over the world.

Q2. What is the original BPM of the Final Countdown?

Ans. Final Countdown has a somber tune to it, as a result, the tempo of the song lies in 118 BPM. You can also use a half-time tempo at 59 BPM, or double-time it at 236 BPM.

Q3. Who is Europe's lead singer?

Ans. Joey Tempest is the lead singer of the rock band Europe.

Q4. How many hits did Europe have?

Ans. Europe has 20 albums in the Billboard 200 charts, including The Final Countdown and Out Of This World. In addition to this, they have three songs in the top 30 singles on the Billboard Hot 100 Chart.

Fun Fact: The lyrics of the song were written after getting inspired by David Bowie’s “Space Oddity.” The song was only intended to be a concert opener, but it became the band’s best song of all time.

Taught by

Mike Walker

Livin on a Prayer

by Mike Walker

In this video lesson Mike Dugan teaches how to play the song The Sky is Crying as part of our guitar series on English songs. The song is broken down into multiple lessons for easy learning - Chords, Rhythm, and Sing and Play. Don't forget to make use of the chords and tabs provided with the song lesson!

Taught by

Mike Walker

The Sky is Crying

by Mike Dugan

Taught by

Mike Dugan

Postcards From Paraguay

by Mike Walker

Taught by

Mike Walker

Belle

by Mike Walker

Taught by

Mike Walker

Beat It

by Bill Peck

Taught by

Bill Peck

Lithium

by J.J. Pattishall

Taught by

J.J. Pattishall

Pirates of The Caribbean Theme

by Mike Walker

Taught by

Mike Walker

Holes to Heaven

by J.J. Pattishall

Taught by

J.J. Pattishall

Songs with Similar Difficulty

But It Rained

by Mike Walker

In this video lesson Mike Walker teaches how to play the song But It Rained as part of our guitar series on Indian songs. The song is broken down into multiple lessons for easy learning - Introduction, Intro Solo, Chords, Rhythm, and Overdubs, Solo Lesson, Song Demo and Overdubs with Backing Track. Don't forget to make use of the chords and tabs provided with the song lesson!

In this video lesson Bobby Koelble teaches how to play the song Pull the Plug as part of our guitar series on English songs. The song is broken down into multiple lessons for easy learning - Introduction, Song Arrangement and Solo Lesson. Don't forget to make use of the chords and tabs provided with the song lesson!

Indian Rock

Taught by

Mike Walker

Pull the Plug

by Bobby Koelble

Metal

Taught by

Bobby Koelble

Sufi Rock Version Licks and Solos

by Mike Walker

Indian Pop

Taught by

Mike Walker

Auliya

by Steve Luciano

Auliya – Introduction

Auliya is a deeply emotional song from the 2019 Bollywood film Hum Chaar, sung by Atif Aslam. The song blends traditional and modern musical styles, creating a calm and reflective mood that touches on themes of devotion and longing. The lyrics, written by Shabbir Ahmed, speak to a heartfelt yearning and spiritual connection, which Atif Aslam delivers with sincere emotion. This combination makes Auliya stand out as a beautiful ballad that resonates with many listeners.

The film Hum Chaar tells the story of four friends navigating their relationships and personal growth, and Auliya fits perfectly into this narrative as a soulful reflection of their emotional struggles. Composed by Vipin Patwa, the song’s melody and arrangement carry a softness that matches the film’s thoughtful tone. The song’s lyrical video, with its simple yet expressive visuals, has also helped it gain popularity, making it a memorable and meaningful part of the movie’s soundtrack.

Auliya – Guitar Lesson

Steve Luciano’s lesson on Auliya breaks down the guitar work in a way that’s approachable and easy to follow. The song features a variety of chords that create a rich and layered sound, starting with some basic shapes like Bm7, D, and E, then moving to more colorful ones like Bbmaj7 and Gb/Bb. These chords give the song a blend of warmth and depth, making it interesting to play and listen to.

The arrangement uses some chord variations that might sound complex at first, but Steve simplifies them by explaining how each chord relates to the song’s key and mood. For example, the Asus2 chord adds a gentle, open sound, while Bm/A and A/C# are examples of chords with bass notes that add smooth transitions and melodic movement in the progression. Steve highlights these to help players understand how small changes in chord shapes can make a big emotional impact.

Steve also focuses on rhythm and dynamics, showing how playing softly and with feeling can bring out the song’s introspective quality. The strumming pattern isn’t rushed; it lets the chords breathe, matching the slow, meditative pace of the song. For those interested in fingerpicking, Steve demonstrates how picking certain notes within the chords can add texture and emphasize the melody, giving beginners a chance to develop control and expression in their playing.

Overall, the lesson is designed to make the song accessible while still preserving its emotional depth. Whether you’re new to guitar or more experienced, Steve’s clear guidance helps you capture the spirit of Auliya, making it a rewarding song to learn and perform.

FAQs

Q. What key is Auliya played in?

The song uses chords mostly around B minor and D major, giving it a warm and reflective feel.

Q. Are there difficult chords in Auliya?

There are some chord shapes with added bass notes like Bm/A and A/C#, but Steve breaks them down simply for easier learning.

Indian Pop

Taught by

Steve Luciano

Nadaan Parindey

by Mike Walker

In this video lesson Mike Walker teaches how to play the song Nadaan Parindey as part of our guitar series on Indian songs. The song is broken down into multiple lessons for easy learning - Introduction, Intro Chords and Lead, Verses and Vamp, Solo 1, Verse-3, Chorus, Main Solo Rhythm, Bridge and Licks, Final Section, Complete Song with Backing Track and Main Solo Lesson. Don't forget to make use of the chords and tabs provided with the song lesson!

Indian Pop

Taught by

Mike Walker

Zero Tolerance

by Bobby Koelble

Introduction:

Torrins brings you an in-depth guitar lesson on Zero Tolerance by Death, taught by none other than Bobby Koelble—one of the original guitarists on the track. This lesson dissects the song’s intricate riffs, multiple solos, and unique techniques to help you master this classic death metal piece.

Fun Fact: The title Zero Tolerance was later used for two compilation albums released under Chuck Schuldiner’s name, featuring rare demo material from both Death and Control Denied.

Tuning and Song Structure

Standard tuning, down a whole step.
Multiple solos from both Chuck Schuldiner and Bobby Koelble.
This Lesson is structured into key sections: Introduction, Intro Riff, Solo-1 (Chuck), Chorus, Bridge, Main Solos (Chuck & Bobby), Solo 2 (Bobby), Song Demo, and Final Note on Chorus.
Make sure to use the provided chords and tabs to follow along!

Breaking Down the Song

Intro Riff

Mostly in the key of E minor.
Straightforward riff featuring power chords, including low E power chords.
Incorporates muted string techniques for a tight and punchy sound.

First Solo (Chuck Schuldiner)

Simple power chord progression in the background, one of which is C.
Features an E minor major 7 arpeggio.
Chuck was known for focusing on feel rather than strict technical terms—tune into the lesson for an in-depth breakdown!

Chorus

Includes a riff and a melody.
Has a slow tempo (for a Death song), making it one of the easier riffs to play.
Features low E power chords, single notes, and palm-muted sections, along with other chords.

Bridge

A relatively easy section featuring some power chords and palm-muted notes.
Watch the lesson to master the additional chords!

Main Solo (Chuck Schuldiner)

Opens with a harmonized melodic lick up the 3rd.
Uses the A harmonic minor scale.
Bobby shares valuable insights on writing melodic solos—a must-watch for aspiring songwriters.

Main Solo (Bobby Koelble)

Played in F# minor.
Starts with an introductory lick harmonized up a 5th, then shifts to a minor 3rd harmony.
Solo is broken down into multiple digestible sections for easy learning.

Solo 2 (Bobby Koelble)

A short but technical solo occurring between the verse and chorus.
Starts with a C note and a tapped harmonic.
This section covers artificial harmonics.

Final Note on Chorus

Discusses the background chords heard in the final chorus.
Bobby teaches unique finger positioning techniques to recreate the exact sound.

Song Demo & Summary

To wrap it all up, Bobby plays the full song with a backing track, demonstrating how all the sections come together.

Why Learn Zero Tolerance?

Learn palm muting, power chord progressions, and harmonized melodies.
Master multiple solo styles, from Chuck’s emotive phrasing to Bobby’s technical intricacies.
Get valuable songwriting and soloing insights from an original artist of the song.

FAQs – Zero Tolerance Guitar Lesson

Q1. Is this lesson beginner-friendly?

This lesson leans more towards intermediate to advanced players.

Q2. How can I improve my palm muting technique?

Focus on muting with the side of your palm near the bridge while maintaining a tight, controlled attack.

Q3. Are tabs provided for the lesson?

Yes! The chords and tabs included will help you nail every section.

moderate

Metal

Taught by

Bobby Koelble

Always with me Always with you

by Bobby Koelble

Introduction

Join our expert instructor, Bobby Koeble, for an in-depth lesson on "Always With Me, Always With You" by Joe Satriani. This song is a lyrical masterpiece known for its challenging legato-style licks and smooth melodic phrasing. This intermediate to advanced-level lesson will walk you through every section of the song, helping you master both the technical and emotional elements that make it so iconic.

Interesting fact: Joe Satriani wrote "Always With Me, Always With You" as a heartfelt tribute to his wife. Unlike many of his other complex, high-energy tracks, this song stands out for its melodic simplicity and emotional depth. Satriani has said that the song represents a peaceful and constant connection with his wife, capturing the feeling of always being together no matter the distance.

Bobby has broken down the song lesson into various sections for a detailed understanding.

Introduction
Separate lessons for Solo section 1-6
Conclusion and backing track

Chords Used

This song is in the key of B major and follows a 3/4 time signature. Some of the key chords used are:

B11 – Uses the E string for added depth.
E major – Bobby teaches a unique fingering that differs from standard chord shapes.
G# minor and F#sus4 – Essential for the song’s harmonic feel.

Tune into the song lesson to learn the rest of the chords that make up this song.

Strumming Pattern

The rhythm of this song is signature to the tune. It follows a strict 8-note rhythm with incorporated techniques such as:

Palm muting
Arpeggios
Sliding

Bobby also shares alternative ways to approach the rhythm so you can find what works best for you.

Song Structure

This song features a flowing, solo-driven structure:

Intro: It has a lyrical melody featuring legato-style licks

Solo Section 1: It is played in the key of B major and incorporates harmonics, vibrato, and sliding.

Solo Section 2: Moves higher up the neck and incorporates heavy use of vibrato and smooth phrasing.

Solo Section 3: This section has a harmony and melody change and is slightly longer and more complex. It introduces left-hand legato techniques.

Solo Section 4: Main melody moves up an octave and incorporates two-handed tapping.

Solo Section 5: It is the most rhythmically challenging part that includes double stops and varied phrasing.

Solo Section 6: Returns to the earlier melody with subtle variations in slide and inflexion. It has a fast legato-based lick to close out.

Outro: Bobby wraps up the lesson by playing along with the backing track

Why Learn This Song?

Master left-hand legato techniques
Develop precise control over sliding and vibrato
Incorporate bluesy elements into your playing
Build confidence with soloing and tapping

FAQs- Always With Me, Always With You Song Guitar Lesson

Q1. Is this song suitable for beginners?

No, this lesson is best for intermediate to advanced players due to the complex legato and tapping techniques.

Q2. How can I improve my sliding and vibrato?

Focus on timing and pressure consistency. Bobby shares detailed tips on mastering both.

moderate

Rock

Taught by

Bobby Koelble

Symbolic

by Bobby Koelble

Introduction

Get ready to master another death metal classic on Torrins—Symbolic by the band Death. This lesson is taught by Bobby Koelble himself, one of the guitarists on the original track. Bobby breaks down the song into several parts, covering essential chords, rhythms, and guitar tones, ensuring a detailed and engaging learning experience.

Fun Fact

Bobby Koelble joined Death after being recommended to Chuck Schuldiner, the band's co-founder, by a friend working at a local music store. Koelble and Schuldiner had known each other since high school in Orlando. After joining the band, Koelble toured with Death across the United States, Canada, Europe, and Japan before the band eventually disbanded.

Chords and Techniques Used in Symbolic

Tuning: Standard tuning down a whole step
Key: E minor
Some of the chords used in this song are G#, F#, Bm, and A7. Tune in to the lesson to know the rest of the chords used in this song.

Song Structure

Main Riff: The main riff repeats seven times and features vibrato, alternative picking, and palm muting. It includes a few power chords, one being G#.
Chorus: The chorus riff follows the same pattern as the main riff but repeats 14 times. Tune in to the lesson for a detailed breakdown of the rest of the chorus.
Solo Section: The solo section features four power chords. In this section, there’s a transition riff as well, which consists of four single notes and a power chord.
Solo section played by Bobby in the original song: It is played in the key of F# and features chords like B minor, F# power chord, and A7—all diatonic to F#. He breaks down the solo into three sections: beginning, middle, and end and shares valuable tips on mastering the solo, including his creative process behind crafting the iconic riff.

Bobby plays all elements slowly, first to make it easier to follow, then repeats them at normal speed. He also explains the guitar tone in detail.

Why Learn Symbolic?

This lesson provides a detailed breakdown of one of death metal’s most iconic tracks. Bobby Koelble’s insight into the composition and technique will help you refine your alternative picking, palm muting, and power chord transitions. It's a challenging yet rewarding song to master for any metal guitarist. If you’re an advanced player or an intermediate player looking for songs to improve your techniques, this song has to be in your repertoire.

Tips to Improve Your Playing

Start by playing the riffs at a slower pace, then gradually increase your speed.
Pay close attention to the vibrato and palm muting techniques to capture the song’s unique tone.
Focus on smooth chord transitions during the solo to maintain the song’s flow.

FAQs – Symbolic Guitar Lesson

Q1. Is this song suitable for beginners?

Ans: This lesson is recommended for intermediate to advanced players due to its fast-paced riffs and complex solos.

Q2. What tuning is used for this song?

Ans: The song is played in standard tuning down a whole step.

moderate

Metal

Taught by

Bobby Koelble

Hotel California (Original Rock Version)

by Steve Luciano

Introduction:

Torrins brings you a detailed lesson on Hotel California by The Eagles, taught by Mike Walker. This song is a rock guitar masterpiece, featuring multiple guitar parts, intricate solos, and the signature 12-string acoustic intro that every guitarist wants to master.

To ensure a smooth learning experience, this lesson includes tabs and lyrics and breaks down each guitar part step by step.

Fun Fact: In 1998, during their induction into the Rock and Roll Hall of Fame, all seven Eagles members performed Hotel California together for the only time ever.

Chords, Rhythm, & Song Arrangement

This lesson covers multiple guitar parts, from acoustic rhythm to electric lead work.

Guitar 1: The 12-string acoustic intro played by Steve Luciano.
Guitar 2: Played on an acoustic guitar, covering the main chord progression with precise picking patterns. This part starts with an open D chord and moves through a D major triad.
Chords Used: D, Em, F#m, Bm, and more. Mike breaks down which strings to leave open and which to mute for the perfect sound.
Guitar 3 (Reggae Section): A muted electric guitar rhythm that appears in the verse section. Played in the key of B minor, with movable F# and E9 chords. It also has some inverted chords. The strumming pattern follows a downstroke with an open fretboard, followed by a down-up motion. Tune into the learn it seamlessly by the pro!
Guitar 4 (Muted Clean Part): A subtle section that introduces muting techniques and power chords, adding to the song's dynamic feel.
Guitar 5 & Guitar 6: These sections introduce lower and higher harmonies, reinforcing the layered guitar arrangement.

Mike walks through each of these sections in detail, ensuring you can replicate the exact feel of the original recording.

Lead Guitar-Licks & Solos

Overdub Licks: The first chorus features a double-stop lick with hammer-ons and pinch harmonics.
Three Guitar Solos: The solos blend B minor pentatonic, B minor, and B harmonic minor scales. Some licks focus on bends, slides, and expressive phrasing.
Outro Solo: Features two interwoven guitar parts, with the first part built around arpeggios like the B minor arpeggio.

Mike takes you through each solo note by note, showing how to nail the tone and phrasing of this legendary song.

Beginner-Friendly Chord Progression

If you're not ready to tackle all the guitar layers, Mike provides a simplified chord progression that lets beginners play along with the song.

Chords Used: A, E, F#m, Em, and others.
Alternative Strumming Pattern: A beginner-friendly rhythm variation to match the song’s feel.

Why Learn Hotel California?

Essential for Rock Guitarists – It is one of the most recognizable intros and solos in rock history.
Teaches Advanced Techniques – This song includes various techniques like fingerpicking, muting, harmony lines, and expressive soloing.
Perfect for Rhythm & Lead Players – The song covers both acoustic strumming and intricate lead work.

FAQs – Hotel California Guitar Lesson

Q1: Is this lesson beginner-friendly?

While the original song is challenging, the lesson includes simpler chord progressions and rhythm parts for beginners.

Q2: What techniques will I learn?

Muted strumming, harmony playing, arpeggios, lead phrasing, and solo improvisation techniques.

moderate

Rock

Taught by

Steve Luciano

Fear of the Dark Solos

by Mike Walker

Fear of the Dark - Introduction

Fear of the Dark is one of Iron Maiden’s most famous songs, released in 1992 on the album of the same name. Written by bassist Steve Harris, it explores the fear of darkness and the unknown. The song starts slow and eerie, then explodes into fast, heavy riffs. It became a fan favourite, especially in live shows where the crowd sings along.

The lyrics describe the creeping fear of being alone in the dark, where every shadow feels threatening. Bruce Dickinson’s powerful vocals and the twin-guitar harmonies make it unforgettable. The song’s structure is dynamic; starting quietly, building tension, then bursting into full energy. It remains one of their most-streamed tracks today.

Fear of the Dark Guitar Lesson

Taught by Mike Walker, this lesson breaks down the song’s F major to D minor shifts. The intro uses clean arpeggios (F - C - Dm - Bb) before the heavy riff kicks in. The main riff is in D minor, played with palm muting for a tight sound. The tempo starts at 80 BPM but speeds up later.

The verse has a chugging rhythm (D5 - C5 - Bb5), while the chorus opens up with power chords (F5 - C5 - D5 - Bb5). The solos use the D harmonic minor scale (D-E-F-G-A-Bb-C#), giving them a dark, dramatic feel. The twin-guitar harmonies are a key feature—two guitars play different but matching melodies.

For the solos, Dave Murray and Adrian Smith use the D harmonic minor scale (D-E-F-G-A-Bb-C#). This scale gives the leads their dramatic, almost classical sound. The twin-guitar harmonies are a key feature—one guitar plays a melody while the other plays a matching part at a different pitch. These harmonies use intervals of thirds and sixths to create that classic Iron Maiden sound.

The bridge section before the final chorus has a rhythm part with quick chord changes. Here, you switch between D5 - F5 - C5 - Bb5 in rapid succession. The key is to keep your palm muting consistent while moving between chords. The song ends with a repeat of the intro arpeggios.

Beginners should start by learning the power chord shapes and the galloping rhythm pattern. Practice the palm muting to get that tight, punchy sound. Intermediate players can work on the twin-guitar harmonies—try recording one part and playing the other over it. Advanced players should focus on the vibrato and bends in the solos, which need to be precise to match the original recording.

FAQs

Q. What tuning does Iron Maiden use for this song?

Standard tuning (EADGBE), though they sometimes play it half-step down live.

Q. How do I play the rhythm correctly?

Use downstrokes on the main beats and upstrokes in between (down-down-up). Start slow with a metronome.

Q. Why does the solo sound so dramatic?

It uses the D harmonic minor scale, which has a raised 7th note (C# instead of C natural).

Q. Can I play this song on a single guitar?

Yes, but you’ll miss the harmonies. Try recording one guitar part and playing the other over.