"You Ain't the First" by Guns N' Roses

Guns N' Roses, a band synonymous with hard rock and the gritty, glam-induced rebellion of the late '80s and early '90s, have a track in their repertoire that breaks the mould of their typical sound. "You Ain't the First" from their prolific album Use Your Illusion I is a unique piece that showcases the band’s versatility and provides an interesting study for guitarists. This acoustic-driven track, steeped in a bluesy, country vibe, differs significantly from the band's usual electric onslaught yet offers a rich array of guitar work that merits a detailed look, especially focusing on the contributions of lead guitarist Slash. Sam Bell breaks down the classic track in this exclusive Lick Library video tutorial.

Chords and Progression

"You Ain't the First" employs a simple yet effective chord progression that resonates with the song's laid-back, almost melancholic feel. The song predominantly uses open chords, making it accessible for guitarists of all levels. The primary chords used are G, C, and D, which form the backbone of many traditional and contemporary pieces. These chords are played in an open position, which gives the song its open, resonant quality.

The progression is cyclical, which is common in folk and country genres, adhering closely to a I-IV-V pattern typical of many popular songs, but with a laid-back, almost lazy strumming style that underscores the song's casual feel.

Guitar Scales and Solo Analysis

The lead guitar work by Slash in "You Ain't the First" is subtle yet masterful, staying true to the song’s overall vibe while still providing that distinctive Slash flair. The solo primarily utilises the G major pentatonic scale, with occasional dips into the G blues scale to add a bit of a gritty feel. The G major pentatonic scale (G, A, B, D, E) is perfect for the country-blues infusion heard here, providing a melodic yet laid-back sound that complements the acoustic rhythm.

Slash’s approach in this track is noteworthy for its restraint. The solo is constructed with phrases that speak more through melody than complexity, featuring smooth bends and vibrato that give it an expressive quality. Notably, the use of string bending and vibrato adds emotional depth to the solo, while slides and double stops provide texture and layers to the overall sound.

Slash’s Playing Style and Techniques

Slash's playing on this track exemplifies his ability to adapt to different musical settings. Known for his aggressive electric guitar solos, Slash here adopts a more subdued, melodic approach. His use of acoustic guitar in "You Ain't the First" provides a warm, rich tone that enhances the song’s introspective quality. Techniques like the gentle use of hammer-ons and pull-offs within the solo sections are executed with precision, ensuring that every note is clear and resonant.

Conclusion

"You Ain't the First" offers a different lens through which to view the guitar stylings of Guns N' Roses, particularly Slash. The song is a testament to the band’s musical flexibility and Slash’s virtuosity and adaptability as a guitarist. It’s a track that may not showcase the high-energy, in-your-face rock that Guns N' Roses is famous for, but it beautifully highlights the subtler, more nuanced aspects of guitar performance.

Guitar Techniques Used in "You Ain't the First"

This song features a variety of guitar techniques that enrich its straightforward chord progression and melody:

• String Bending
• Vibrato
• Slides
• Double Stops
• Hammer-Ons
• Pull-Offs

Each of these techniques adds a layer of complexity and expression to the song, making it a great piece for guitarists looking to explore acoustic playing within a rock context. Whether you're a beginner aiming to grasp basic chord progressions or an advanced player interested in the nuanced expression of lead guitar, "You Ain't the First" serves as a splendid learning tool and an enjoyable piece to play.