Cemetery Gates – Pantera

“Cemetery Gates” by Pantera stands as one of the most iconic metal ballads of all time, blending melody, aggression, and technical prowess in equal measure. At Licklibrary.com, our detailed, note-for-note guitar lesson on this classic track takes you deep into the mind of Dimebag Darrell—one of metal’s most revered guitar heroes. This lesson not only teaches you how to play every note exactly as it was recorded, but also focuses on the core guitar techniques used throughout the song, making it a must for any guitarist wanting to level up their skills. Andy James breaks down this classic track in this exclusive Lick Library video tutorial.

About the Song and Guitarist

Released in 1990 on Pantera’s seminal album Cowboys from Hell, “Cemetery Gates” was a defining moment for the band, showcasing their versatility beyond relentless grooves and shredding solos. Guitarist Dimebag Darrell, known for his searing tone, inventive riffs, and explosive solos, delivered a masterclass in both dynamics and emotion on this track.

Dimebag’s influence on modern metal cannot be overstated. From precision rhythm work to harmonic trickery and soulful bends, his unique voice on the guitar continues to inspire generations of players. “Cemetery Gates” captures his genius—juxtaposing melancholic melodies with explosive solo passages—and is a perfect study in expressive playing and technical mastery.

What You'll Learn in This Lesson

Our in-depth video lesson takes you through every section of the song, focusing on the intricate guitar parts and the essential techniques that drive the track.

1. String Bending and Bluesy Bends

Dimebag’s expressive phrasing is full of string bending, including subtle bluesy bends that give emotional weight to the melodies. You'll learn how to control your bends for pitch accuracy and vibrato, crucial for soulful lead playing.

2. Pinched Harmonics

One of Dimebag’s signature sounds, pinched harmonics add a screeching, aggressive tone to his licks. You’ll learn how to master this technique and apply it with precision during riffs and solos.

3. Vibrato

Dimebag’s vocal-like vibrato is a defining characteristic of his soloing style. This lesson teaches you how to develop a strong, controlled vibrato that gives your notes life and personality.

4. Legato Techniques – Hammer-ons and Pull-offs

The solo in “Cemetery Gates” features fluid legato lines built from hammer-ons and pull-offs. You’ll learn to execute these seamlessly, improving your speed and smoothness.

5. Dive Bombs and Whammy Bar Tricks

Few guitarists use the whammy bar with as much character as Dimebag. This lesson explores his dramatic dive bombs and other whammy bar tricks to add chaos and color to your playing.

6. Arpeggios and Arpeggiated Chord Progressions

Both the intro and solo sections utilize carefully picked arpeggios and arpeggiated chord progressions to create atmosphere and tension. This is an excellent opportunity to improve your picking accuracy and fretboard knowledge.

7. Power Chords and Palm Muting

The heavier riff sections are built on classic power chords combined with tight palm muting, creating that thick, chugging rhythm tone Pantera is known for. You’ll get tight with your picking hand and learn how to lock into a groove.

8. Trills and Slides

The fast, expressive trills and dramatic slides in this track give motion and intensity to Dimebag’s solos. These techniques are great for developing finger independence and dynamic contrast in your playing.

9. Tapped Harmonics and Two-Handed Tapping

The song’s outro solo features a brilliant use of tapped harmonics and two-handed tapping, techniques that deliver jaw-dropping sounds and extended range. We break these down note by note to help you bring them into your own solos.

Why Learn These Techniques?

Each technique used in “Cemetery Gates” isn’t just about flash—it’s about musical expression. You’ll learn how to:

• Add character to your lead lines with bends, vibrato, and harmonics.
• Develop smooth legato runs for fluid soloing.
• Build a strong foundation in rhythm with power chords and palm muting.
• Add advanced tricks like two-handed tapping and whammy bar dives to expand your sonic palette.
• Enhance your fretboard vision through arpeggios and tapping shapes.

Whether you’re a seasoned guitarist or an intermediate player looking to break through to the next level, this lesson gives you the tools and inspiration to play like a pro.

Guitar Techniques Used in This Lesson

• Vibrato
• String Bending
• Bluesy Bends
• Pinched Harmonics
• Hammer-ons
• Pull-offs
• Legato
• Dive Bombs
• Whammy Bar Tricks
• Power Chords
• Palm Muting
• Arpeggios
• Arpeggiated Chord Progressions
• Trills
• Slides
• Tapped Harmonics
• Two-Handed Tapping

Ready to master one of the most emotionally and technically rich metal tracks of all time? Dive into our Cemetery Gates lesson and start shredding like Dimebag today.