Master "I Want You To Want Me" by Cheap Trick on Guitar with LickLibrary

Dive into the quintessential rock anthem "I Want You To Want Me" by Cheap Trick, with our detailed guitar lesson at LickLibrary. This timeless track, known for its catchy hooks and brilliant guitar play, offers an exciting challenge for guitarists eager to refine their technique and add some classic rock flair to their repertoire. Our lesson breaks down the song note-for-note, highlighting specific guitar techniques that not only define the track but also enhance your overall guitar skills. This lesson is taught by Sam Bell.

Guitar Techniques Explored in "I Want You To Want Me"

This lesson is designed to help you master several key guitar techniques that are integral to rock music, especially as demonstrated in "I Want You To Want Me." Here’s what you’ll learn:

String Bending

String bending is a pivotal technique in rock guitar, adding expression and a vocal-like quality to the lead lines. In this song, bends are used to convey emotion and tension, particularly in the guitar solos and fills. Mastering this technique will allow you to add more soul and expressiveness to your playing.

Barre Chords

Barre chords form the backbone of many rock songs, offering a fuller sound and versatility in chord transitions. This track utilizes barre chords to create a powerful rhythm section that drives the song. Learning these will improve your fret-hand stamina and enhance your ability to play more complex chords.

Power Chords

Power chords are simplified two or three-note chords that are a staple in rock music. They are used extensively in "I Want You To Want Me" to create a robust and driving sound. These chords are crucial for playing rock rhythms and are relatively easy to learn, making them great for beginners and experienced players alike.

Palm Muting

Palm muting involves damping the strings with the side of your picking hand to produce a chunky, muted sound. This technique is used throughout the song to control the dynamics and add a percussive element to the guitar parts. It’s essential for creating the distinctive chugging sound of rock rhythm guitar.

About the Guitarists of Cheap Trick

Rick Nielsen, the lead guitarist of Cheap Trick, is renowned for his charismatic stage presence and inventive guitar playing. His approach combines clever pop sensibilities with hard-rocking riffs, making "I Want You To Want Me" a showcase of his dynamic playing style. Nielsen's influence extends beyond just guitar techniques; his ability to craft engaging and memorable guitar parts has inspired countless musicians. Learning his parts in this song offers a window into his creative process and can greatly influence your approach to guitar playing.

Benefits of Learning These Guitar Techniques

By focusing on these techniques, you’ll not only be able to play "I Want You To Want Me" authentically but also build a solid foundation for other genres. Each technique enhances your versatility and adaptability, making you a more well-rounded player. Whether you’re bending strings to express a musical phrase or using palm muting for rhythmic precision, these skills are transferable and elevate your musical expression.

Conclusion

Our lesson on "I Want You To Want Me" by Cheap Trick is more than just a song tutorial—it’s a deep dive into the art of rock guitar. By mastering the techniques showcased in this classic track, you’ll expand your musical vocabulary and be better equipped to tackle various musical challenges.

List of Guitar Techniques Used in This Lesson

• String Bending
• Barre Chords
• Power Chords
• Palm Muting

This lesson serves as an excellent resource for enhancing your guitar skills while enjoying the music of one of rock's legendary bands.