Wonderwall by Oasis

If you're a fan of Oasis or simply looking to learn one of the most iconic songs of the '90s, "Wonderwall" is a must-learn track for any guitarist. In this detailed guitar lesson, we break down the techniques used in the song, offering a note-for-note guide to mastering it. From basic chord shapes to more intricate strumming patterns, this lesson covers everything you need to bring "Wonderwall" to life on your guitar. Whether you're a beginner or an intermediate player, this song is a fantastic addition to your repertoire, and the techniques you'll learn are both foundational and fun to play. Jamie Humphries breaks down this classic track in this exclusive Lick Library video tutorial.

The Guitar Player Behind Wonderwall

The guitar work on "Wonderwall" is primarily performed by Oasis' rhythm guitarist and songwriter, Noel Gallagher. Known for his powerful yet melodic playing style, Noel's approach on "Wonderwall" captures the essence of Britpop, blending catchy chord progressions with emotive strumming patterns. Gallagher's influence extends far beyond his technical skills; he’s renowned for making complex techniques sound accessible, particularly through his innovative use of open chords and capos. His rhythm guitar playing on this song set the stage for countless acoustic performances and has influenced guitarists across genres, thanks to his unique ability to craft memorable, anthemic riffs.

Techniques Covered in the Wonderwall Guitar Lesson

Open Chord Progressions

"Wonderwall" is famous for its use of open chord shapes, such as Em7, G, Dsus4, and A7sus4. These chords are relatively easy to play and provide a wide, ringing sound that complements the acoustic guitar. Learning these open chord progressions is an excellent way for beginner guitarists to get comfortable with chord transitions while keeping a steady rhythm.

Benefits: Mastering open chord progressions helps improve chord changes and finger positioning. It also opens up new possibilities for playing a variety of songs using similar shapes.

Strumming Patterns

The strumming pattern in "Wonderwall" is one of the trickier aspects for beginners. It involves a syncopated rhythm that adds drive to the song without overwhelming the melody. By breaking down this strumming pattern in the lesson, you will develop a greater sense of rhythm and timing, critical skills for any guitarist.

Benefits: Learning syncopated rhythms enhances your ability to lock into a groove, making your playing more dynamic and engaging.

Capo Usage

One of the key elements of "Wonderwall" is the use of a capo on the second fret. This shifts the chords to a higher pitch, giving the song its distinctive sound. Understanding how to use a capo not only helps you recreate this iconic song but also opens up possibilities for playing other songs in different keys with minimal changes to your chord shapes.

Benefits: Using a capo allows you to explore new tonal possibilities and experiment with alternate voicings for familiar chord shapes.

Arpeggiated Chord Progressions

Though "Wonderwall" is primarily known for its strumming, some sections of the song can be played using arpeggiated chord progressions, where the individual notes of the chords are plucked instead of strummed. This adds variety to the performance and can give the song a more delicate, introspective feel.

Benefits: Learning arpeggios strengthens your finger independence and coordination, crucial for more intricate guitar playing.

Slides

The slides in the transition between some chord changes are subtle but add a nice melodic touch to the song. These slides help connect different chord shapes seamlessly, creating a more fluid and expressive sound.

Benefits: Incorporating slides into your playing improves your ability to transition smoothly between chords and notes, giving your playing a more professional sound.

Barre Chords

Though most of "Wonderwall" can be played using open chords, there are opportunities to incorporate barre chords to provide a fuller sound. Learning how to play these barre chords adds versatility to your playing and allows you to approach the song with different interpretations.

Benefits: Barre chords are essential for any guitarist, as they unlock the entire fretboard and enable you to play in various keys without needing to rely on a capo.

The Influence of Wonderwall on Guitar Players

"Wonderwall" has become a rite of passage for guitarists around the world. Noel Gallagher’s approach to songwriting and guitar playing—focused on strong melodies and chord-driven progressions—has inspired countless guitarists to pick up the instrument. His ability to fuse simple techniques with evocative songwriting makes "Wonderwall" both accessible and deeply rewarding for players of all skill levels. Moreover, the song's blend of acoustic rhythm guitar and clever use of open chords has made it a cornerstone of the Britpop genre and beyond.

Guitar Techniques Used in the Wonderwall Lesson

• Open Chord Progressions
• Capo
• Syncopated Rhythms
• Arpeggios
• Slides
• Barre Chords

This lesson offers a comprehensive look at the techniques used in "Wonderwall," each serving to enhance your overall guitar playing skill set. Whether you're looking to improve your rhythm, expand your chord vocabulary, or simply learn a classic song, this lesson is a fantastic addition to your practice routine.