“Back in Black” by AC/DC is probably one of the most recognizable rock anthems to have ever hit the public. Released in 1980 as the title track of their album, this is a powerful dedication to the band’s late lead singer, Bon Scott. To guitarists, learning the “Back in Black” guitar tab is almost a rite of passage. In this article, you will get an in-depth look at how to play this legendary track, complete with helpful tips and resources.
Introduction to “Back in Black”
“Back in Black” is more than just a song; it’s an anthem of rock that has stood the test of time. From that unbelievable riff to the electrifying guitar work from Angus Young, it’s got to be learned by any serious guitarist. The song is in the key of E major, and this riff employs a mix of power chords and single-note lines.
Understanding the Basics of the Tab
Getting the Tab Basics In no time, you’ll be playing off the tab. First, though, just a little about how the song is structured: “Back in Black” is one of those typical versechorus-verse types with arguably one of the most recognizable intro riffs ever concocted; it repeats throughout. The tab, as you can see, is written in standard notation-six lines to correspond with the six strings of the guitar. Numbers on the lines show which frets to press down on what strings.
Key Points to Remember:
- Tuning: Standard E (E A D G B E)
- Tempo: 92 BPM
- Key: E Major
Breaking Down the Intro Riff
The intro riff of “Back in Black” is without a doubt one of the most recognizable riffs in the entire history of rock. It’s relatively simple, but the precision and timing need to be just right. The riff is played with a mix of power chords and single notes, primarily on the low E and A strings.
Intro Riff Tab:
e|-----------------------------|
B|-----------------------------|
G|-----------------------------|
D|-----------------2-0---------|
A|---------2-0-----------2-0---|
E|--0--3--------3---------------|Tips for Mastery:
- Start slow and gradually increase speed.
- Focus on clean transitions between the power chords and single notes.
- Use alternate picking to maintain a smooth flow.
Mastering the Verse and Chorus
The verse and chorus sections are more complicated and heavier compared to the intro riff of “Back in Black.” The verse basically hangs on the E5, D5, and A5 power chords, while the chorus focuses more on the driving rhythm of the song.
Verse Tab:
e|--------------------------------|
B|--------------------------------|
G|--------------------------------|
D|-----2--------0-----------------|
A|-----2--------0-----------------|
E|--0--------3--------------------|Chorus Tab:
e|--------------------------------|
B|--------------------------------|
G|--------------------------------|
D|-----2--------2------0---2------|
A|-----2--------2------0---2------|
E|--0--------3---------0---0------|Practice Tips:
- Keep a steady rhythm, especially during chord transitions.
- Practice with a metronome to ensure you’re staying on beat.
- Pay attention to dynamics; the verse should be slightly quieter than the chorus.
Solo Breakdown
Back in Black” solo is a great example of Angus Young’s virtuosity. Although it might seem a bit intimidating at first, one can quickly see that breaking this solo down into smaller sections makes it so much easier to work with. The solo plays over the verse chords, and that brings in another layer of complexity with the rhythm.
Solo Tab (First Few Bars):
e|------------------------------------------|
B|------------------------------------------|
G|------------------------9-7--------------|
D|------9b11----9-7-9-7-9-------9-7-9-7-----|
A|------------------------------------------|
E|------------------------------------------|Solo Tips:
- Start by learning the solo slowly, focusing on accuracy.
- Pay attention to bends and slides, which add expression to the solo.
- Once comfortable, practice along with the original track to match the feel.
Common Mistakes to Avoid
When learning “Back in Black,” there are a few common things to watch out for. Among them are: rushing the intro riff, lacking dynamics, and playing the solo too fast. To avoid these mistakes, follow these tips:
- Slow Practice: Start slow and gradually build up speed.
- Use a Metronome: This will help you keep time and maintain the groove.
- Focus on Dynamics: Make sure you’re differentiating between the quieter verse and the more powerful chorus.
Research Table:
| Section | Difficulty Level | Key Techniques | Common Mistakes |
|---|---|---|---|
| Intro Riff | Easy | Alternate Picking, Timing | Rushing the riff |
| Verse | Moderate | Power Chords, Rhythm | Sloppy chord transitions |
| Chorus | Moderate | Dynamics, Rhythm | Neglecting dynamics |
| Solo | Advanced | Bends, Slides, Timing | Playing too fast, Inaccurate bends |
FAQs
Q. How long does it take to learn “Back in Black” on guitar?
The time it takes to learn “Back in Black” depends on your skill level. Beginners might take a few weeks, while more experienced guitarists could master it in a few days.
Q. What’s the best way to practice the “Back in Black” guitar tab?
Start by breaking the song into sections. Practice each section slowly, and once you’re comfortable, increase the tempo. Using a metronome can help you maintain a steady rhythm.
Q. Can I play “Back in Black” on an acoustic guitar?
Yes, you can play “Back in Black” on an acoustic guitar. While it’s traditionally played on an electric guitar, the chords and riffs translate well to an acoustic setup.
Q. Is “Back in Black” a good song for beginners?
Yes, the intro riff and main rhythm parts are accessible to beginners also making it a great song for those looking to build their skills.
Q. Where can I find a reliable “Back in Black” guitar tab?
You can find reliable tabs on websites like Ultimate Guitar or Songsterr. Ensure the tab you choose has good ratings and reviews.
Conclusion
Back in Black guitar tab mastery is one of those challenging yet rewarding milestones a guitarist can ever hope to achieve. You will be able to build your skills and confidence progressively by breaking down the song into its key elements: intro riff, verse, chorus, and solo. With consistent practice and paying attention to little things, you’ll not only be playing this iconic track but also understand how rock guitar works a lot more. From complete beginners to accomplished players, “Back in Black” has something to teach and entertain any player of any age. Moreover, keep practicing, stay patient, and enjoy learning one of rock’s anthems.