Smells Like Teen Spirit - Nirvana

About the Song and Guitarist

"Smells Like Teen Spirit" by Nirvana is an iconic anthem that defined the grunge era of the 1990s. Written by Kurt Cobain, the song features a raw, powerful riff and infectious energy that captured the rebellious spirit of a generation. Cobain's guitar work on this track is deceptively simple yet effective, utilising a mix of grunge and punk-inspired techniques. His style has had a profound influence on countless guitarists, emphasising emotion and authenticity over technical complexity. Learning this song provides not only an understanding of Cobain's approach but also insights into the heart of grunge music. Danny Gill breaks down this classic track in this exclusive Lick Library video tutorial.

Techniques Covered in the Lesson

Power Chords

Power chords are a foundational element of "Smells Like Teen Spirit." The main riff of the song is built entirely on power chords, creating its driving and heavy sound. Mastering power chords is essential for any guitarist, as they are widely used across rock, punk, and grunge genres. This technique strengthens your fretting hand and helps you understand the relationship between root notes and their harmonies.

Palm Muting

The verses of the song use palm muting to add dynamics and tension, creating a contrast with the explosive chorus. By lightly resting the palm of your picking hand on the strings, you achieve a muted, percussive sound. This technique is crucial for controlling dynamics and adding texture to your playing.

Slides

Slides are used in the transitions between chords, contributing to the fluid movement of the riff. This technique involves smoothly sliding your fretting hand from one note to another, adding a professional polish to your playing. Slides enhance fretboard mobility and help develop precision.

String Bending

While subtle, string bending adds expressive flair to the melody. This technique involves pushing or pulling the string to raise the pitch, mimicking a vocal-like quality. It’s an excellent exercise in pitch control and finger strength.

Syncopated Rhythms

The rhythm guitar parts in "Smells Like Teen Spirit" feature syncopated patterns that give the song its distinctive groove. Syncopation involves emphasising off-beats or unexpected parts of the rhythm, challenging your timing and rhythmic precision.

Hammer-Ons and Pull-Offs

These techniques are featured in some of the melodic embellishments within the song. Hammer-ons and pull-offs allow you to play notes smoothly and quickly, enhancing your legato phrasing. They also improve finger independence and fluidity.

Benefits of Learning These Techniques

1. Power Chords: Build a solid foundation for rock guitar and gain confidence in playing rhythmically tight riffs.
2. Palm Muting: Develop control over dynamics and learn to add emotional depth to your playing.
3. Slides: Enhance your fretboard navigation and create smooth transitions between notes.
4. String Bending: Improve your ear for pitch and add emotional expressiveness to solos and melodies.
5. Syncopated Rhythms: Sharpen your timing skills and make your rhythm playing more engaging.
6. Hammer-Ons and Pull-Offs: Achieve a more fluid and seamless playing style for melodic lines.

Techniques Used in the Lesson

• Power Chords
• Palm Muting
• Slides
• String Bending
• Syncopated Rhythms
• Hammer-Ons
• Pull-Offs

By diving into this lesson, you'll not only master one of the most recognisable rock songs ever written but also enhance your technique and understanding of the guitar. Get ready to channel your inner Kurt Cobain and bring this grunge classic to life!