"When I'm President" by Extreme: Guitar Lesson

If you're into funk-rock, especially the kind that relies heavily on exceptional guitar work, then "When I'm President" by Extreme should be on your radar. The song, performed by Extreme's iconic guitarist Nuno Bettencourt, is a masterclass in several technical aspects of guitar playing. Sam Bell dives into every nuance of this classic album track.

Chord Progressions and Scales

The chord structure in "When I'm President" is fairly accessible, but Nuno adds his unique flair to it. The main verses typically move through a G, C, D progression but the magic is in the voicings and embellishments. It's not your garden-variety open chords; we're talking sophisticated barre and extended chords.

As for scales, this track leans heavily on the G Mixolydian and minor pentatonic. When you listen to the song, you'll find the pentatonic scale in full display during the more bluesy, expressive licks, while the Mixolydian adds that 'funky' touch.

The Solo

Ah, the guitar solo, a perfect blend of melodic storytelling and technical wizardry. Nuno brings in a balance of speed, phrasing, and melody that is just sublime. He kicks off the solo with a rapid alternate-picked sequence, making full use of the Mixolydian mode. He then transitions into a legato phrase that's both fluid and fast, giving the listener a moment to breathe before he launches into tapped harmonics.

Towards the end, he incorporates unison bends which really widen the sonic landscape and provide a beautiful climax before returning to the main riff.

Nuno Bettencourt's Signature Touch

Nuno is well-known for his impeccable timing and groove, and this song is no exception. His use of dynamics, especially in the palm-muted segments, adds nuance to what would otherwise be a straightforward riff. The fills between the vocal lines, often comprising slides and quick pull-offs, add an extra layer of excitement to the song.

Techniques Used

To truly appreciate the complexity of "When I'm President," here's a list of techniques Nuno Bettencourt employs, each worthy of further exploration:

• Alternate Picking
• Legato
• Tapped Harmonics
• Unison Bends
• Palm Muting
• Barre Chords
• Pull-offs
• Chord Progressions
• String Bending
• Slides

Each of these techniques serves to make the song what it is: a complex tapestry of rhythm, melody, and virtuosity.

So, if you're looking to expand your guitar skills or simply appreciate the musicianship involved, "When I'm President" offers a rewarding deep dive. From the rich chord voicings and innovative use of scales to the exceptional solo filled with technique and melody, this song is a testament to what a guitar can do in the hands of a master like Nuno Bettencourt.