Learning how to play “Thunderstruck” on guitar is an exciting challenge for any rock music fan.
This song by AC/DC can really show off your skills and impress your friends.
Whether you’re a beginner just starting out or an experienced player looking to enhance your repertoire, tackling this classic will take your guitar playing to the next level.
Getting comfortable with the iconic opening riff is essential, as it sets the stage for the rest of the song.
As you progress, you’ll not only learn how to play the main melody but also master the electrifying solo that makes “Thunderstruck” a favorite among guitarists.
Practicing these parts will improve your overall guitar technique while allowing you to enjoy one of the greatest rock anthems ever created.
Once you get the hang of it, you’ll see just how rewarding it is to play such a renowned track.
So grab your guitar, plug in, and get ready to rock out to AC/DC’s timeless hit!
Key Takeaways
- Start by mastering the main riff to get a feel for the song.
- Practice the solo to showcase your skills.
- Enjoy the process and have fun playing this rock classic!
Getting Started with Your Guitar
Before you jump into playing “Thunderstruck,” it’s important to get a grip on some guitar basics.
Knowing how to tune your guitar and understand the tab will make your learning smoother and more enjoyable.
Understanding Guitar Basics
First, let’s go over some essentials.
Your guitar has six strings, each one producing a different note.
The ones closest to you are the thickest and are lower in pitch.
When you fret a string, you press it down with your fretting hand to create different notes.
Each fret corresponds to a half step up in pitch.
Familiarize yourself with basic chords like A, E, and D, as they’re useful in many songs.
Practicing these will help strengthen your fingers and improve your accuracy.
Tuning Your Guitar for Thunderstruck
Getting your guitar in tune is crucial for playing “Thunderstruck” correctly.
The standard tuning is E-A-D-G-B-e from the thickest to the thinnest string.
You can use a tuner, your phone, or even an online tuning guide to help.
Once tuned, play each string to ensure it sounds crisp.
Remember, if your guitar is out of tune, it’ll sound off when you play.
Take a moment to double-check before you dive into the song.
Tuning your guitar accurately will improve your playing significantly.
Familiarizing with Thunderstruck Tab
Now, it’s time to get to know the “Thunderstruck” tab.
The tab shows you where to place your fingers on the fretboard.
For this song, you’ll focus on a few key riffs and picking patterns.
Each line represents a string, and numbers indicate which fret to press.
Spend some time practicing the main riff.
It’s catchy and gets you familiar with how the song flows.
Take it slow at first, gradually increasing your speed as you get comfortable with the tab.
With practice, you’ll be rocking out in no time!
Mastering the Iconic Thunderstruck Riff
The “Thunderstruck” riff is a defining moment in rock music.
To master this iconic sound, you’ll break it down into three key parts: the intro riff, the verse and pre-chorus, and the chorus.
Let’s jump right in!
Playing the Intro Riff
Start with the powerful intro that sets the stage for “Thunderstruck.” The riff uses a mix of open strings and fretted notes to create that recognizable sound.
- Use your pick: Focus on a steady picking motion. This makes the riff sound sharp and clear.
- Fingers position: You’ll need to use your fingers to press down on the fretboard. The notes are mainly played on the E and A strings.
- Practice slowly: Begin at a slower tempo. Once you feel comfortable, gradually increase your speed.
Make sure to listen to the original track by Angus Young to get the feel for timing and dynamics.
Learning the Verse and Pre-Chorus
Next, move to the verse and pre-chorus.
These sections add depth and keep the energy flowing.
- Chords used: Focus on the main chords—E, D, and A. These create the backdrop for the verses.
- Strumming pattern: Pay attention to your strumming. Ensure you’re keeping it consistent with a driving rock rhythm.
- Transition smoothly: Work on switching between the chords effortlessly. This helps maintain the song’s momentum.
The pre-chorus raises the energy.
Emphasize your strumming to match the intensity of the lyrics.
Tackling the Chorus
Finally, jump into the chorus, where the energy really peaks.
- Chord sequence: Familiarize yourself with the progression. It typically follows the order of E, D, and A.
- Power chords: Angus Young often uses power chords during this section. This gives it a heavier sound, perfect for rock.
- Practice dynamics: Play around with volume. You can strum loudly for a powerful effect or pull back for a quieter moment.
Stay focused on keeping your chords crisp to capture the essence of this legendary track.
With practice, you’ll nail each part of “Thunderstruck.”
Executing the Thunderstruck Solo
Getting into the Thunderstruck solo requires a solid grasp of technique and musicality.
You’ll need to break down the parts carefully and understand the unique tricks Angus Young uses.
Breaking Down the Solo Section
Start by familiarizing yourself with the solo’s structure.
The Thunderstruck solo is filled with fast runs and melodic phrases.
Pay attention to the key sections, which include both ascending and descending patterns.
Focus Points:
- Timing: Make sure you keep the rhythm tight. Use a metronome if necessary.
- Phrasing: Each melody line has a distinct character. Try to play along with the original track for better feel.
- Sections to Master: Break the solo into smaller parts. Practice each part slowly before speeding up.
Techniques for Soloing
Angus Young’s style in Thunderstruck features several techniques that you should incorporate into your playing.
One key technique is the use of picking.
Key Techniques:
- Alternate Picking: This helps in achieving speed and smoothness.
- Hammer-ons and Pull-offs: These are essential for adding flair to your runs. They make your playing sound more fluid.
- String Bending: Use bending to give the notes more expression. This technique creates a powerful dynamic in your soloing.
Make sure to combine these techniques with your personal flair to make the solo truly yours.
Keep practicing, and you’ll nail it!
Frequently Asked Questions
Learning to play “Thunderstruck” on guitar can be exciting.
Here are some common questions that can help guide you through the process, covering everything from basic steps to specific techniques.
It’s essential to start with the right tuning and familiarize yourself with the song’s chord progressions.
As you dive deeper, focus on mastering the iconic riffs and transitions that make “Thunderstruck” so recognizable.
For those looking to refine their skills, understanding how to practice guitar techniques effectively can make a significant difference in your overall performance.
What are the basic steps to learn Thunderstruck on guitar for beginners?
Start by breaking the song into smaller parts.
Focus on the intro riff first.
Practice slowly, then gradually increase your speed.
Make sure to listen to the original track while you practice for timing and feel.
Where can I find guitar tabs for Thunderstruck?
You can find guitar tabs for “Thunderstruck” on various music websites.
Check out Ultimate Guitar for a detailed guide.
You can also find tabs on many guitar lesson platforms and YouTube tutorials.
Can you play Thunderstruck on an acoustic guitar, and if so, how?
Yes, you can play “Thunderstruck” on an acoustic guitar.
Focus on the riff and adjust your picking to match the acoustic sound.
Strumming full chords will work for the verse and chorus sections.
What’s the best way to tackle the solo in Thunderstruck on guitar?
To tackle the solo, listen closely to the recording first.
Break it down into phrases.
Practice each phrase slowly before increasing your speed.
Use tools like YouTube lessons to help you master the solo.
Additionally, consider studying the techniques used by the guitarist in the solo, as this can provide valuable insights into their style.
If you’re unsure about certain riffs or chords, look up tutorials that specifically teach you how to play lead guitar, as these can help clarify complex sections.
Lastly, don’t forget to record yourself playing; this will allow you to track your progress and make necessary adjustments along the way.
How do you play the chords to Thunderstruck on guitar?
The main chords in “Thunderstruck” are simple power chords.
Familiarize yourself with Em and G power chords.
Work on transitioning between these chords smoothly as you play along with the song.
Is the Thunderstruck riff played with tapping or picking technique?
The “Thunderstruck” riff primarily uses picking technique.
However, it includes rapid alternate picking.
Focus on your picking hand to get the rhythm and speed right.
Then, practice the riff repeatedly for accuracy.