Times Like These by Foo Fighters

“Times Like These” by Foo Fighters is a modern rock anthem that showcases a blend of rhythmic complexity and melodic subtlety, making it an excellent choice for guitarists aiming to enhance their skills. At Licklibrary.com, our note-for-note guitar lesson for "Times Like These" breaks down each section of the song meticulously, focusing on the core techniques used by the Foo Fighters’ guitarists. This lesson not only helps you replicate the song but also builds foundational skills that can be applied across various musical styles. Danny Gill breaks down this classic track in this exclusive Lick Library video tutorial.

The Guitarists Behind the Song

The Foo Fighters, led by the iconic Dave Grohl, crafted "Times Like These" with the help of their talented guitarists, including Chris Shiflett and Pat Smear. Known for their unique blend of raw energy and melodic nuance, these guitarists have influenced countless players worldwide. Their work on this song demonstrates their ability to merge intricate rhythms with emotionally resonant melodies, providing a masterclass in modern rock guitar.

Techniques Highlighted in the Lesson

Palm Muting

This technique is used throughout the song to create dynamic contrasts and add rhythmic precision. By muting the strings with the palm of your picking hand, you can produce a tight, percussive sound that enhances the song's groove. Learning palm muting improves your control and articulation, essential skills for playing rhythmically intricate pieces.

Arpeggios

Arpeggiated chords form the backbone of the song's intro and verse sections. Breaking down chords into individual notes creates a flowing, melodic feel that defines the song's emotional impact. Mastering arpeggios enhances finger dexterity and timing, making them a valuable tool for creating memorable guitar parts.

Alternate Picking

The driving rhythm sections employ alternate picking, where upstrokes and downstrokes alternate to maintain speed and fluidity. This technique is vital for improving picking efficiency and precision, especially in fast-paced sections.

Chord Progressions

"Times Like These" features distinctive chord progressions that blend open and barre chords to create a rich harmonic texture. Studying these progressions helps guitarists understand the structure of modern rock songs and expand their chordal vocabulary.

Hammer-Ons and Pull-Offs

The song incorporates subtle hammer-ons and pull-offs to embellish its melodic lines. These techniques enable smooth transitions between notes and add a lyrical quality to your playing.

Slides

Sliding between notes and chords is a signature element in the song, adding a fluid and expressive touch. Learning slides improves fretboard navigation and the ability to connect musical ideas seamlessly.

Syncopated Rhythms

One of the song's standout features is its syncopated rhythms, where accents fall on unexpected beats. This creates a compelling groove and adds complexity to the rhythm guitar parts. Practicing syncopation enhances your sense of timing and rhythmic versatility.

Why Learn These Techniques?

• Palm Muting: Improves dynamics and rhythmic clarity, making your playing more versatile and precise.
• Arpeggios: Develops finger independence and adds melodic depth to your repertoire.
• Alternate Picking: Builds speed and accuracy, crucial for tackling intricate passages.
• Chord Progressions: Expands your knowledge of harmony and enhances songwriting skills.
• Hammer-Ons and Pull-Offs: Adds fluidity and expressiveness to your playing.
• Slides: Improves fretboard control and musical phrasing.
• Syncopated Rhythms: Strengthens your timing and ability to groove.

Guitar Techniques Covered in This Lesson

• Palm Muting
• Arpeggios
• Alternate Picking
• Chord Progressions
• Hammer-Ons
• Pull-Offs
• Slides
• Syncopated Rhythms

Whether you're a beginner looking to improve your skills or an experienced guitarist seeking to refine your technique, the "Times Like These" guitar lesson offers valuable insights and hands-on practice. Dive into this lesson to master a modern classic and elevate your guitar playing to new heights!