"Mother" by Pink Floyd

Pink Floyd’s "Mother", from their iconic 1979 album The Wall, stands as a masterclass in expressive guitar playing, arrangement, and storytelling. Our in-depth, note-for-note guitar lesson at Licklibrary.com meticulously breaks down the techniques used in the song, allowing guitarists to replicate the tone, feel, and phrasing of this haunting track. Whether you're a fan of David Gilmour’s emotive soloing or looking to improve your acoustic rhythm playing, this lesson is a goldmine of timeless guitar skills. Jamie Humphries breaks down this classic track in this exclusive Lick Library video tutorial.

About the Guitarist – David Gilmour

David Gilmour, the lead guitarist and vocalist of Pink Floyd, is widely regarded as one of the most expressive and soulful players in rock history. Known for his tasteful phrasing, melodic solos, and emotive touch, Gilmour’s work on "Mother" is a perfect example of less-is-more guitar playing. His influence stretches across generations, inspiring guitarists to focus on tone, articulation, and emotion rather than sheer speed. His use of space, dynamics, and phrasing in "Mother" showcases why he remains a giant in the world of guitar.

Song Overview

"Mother" begins with a warm, introspective acoustic guitar figure that lays the emotional foundation for the song. As it progresses, it transitions into electric textures with clean tones and then builds into soaring lead work. Our lesson focuses on capturing every nuance of the acoustic rhythm, electric fills, and of course, the memorable guitar solo. Each section of the song is broken down so you can understand the technique behind the tone and how to recreate it in your own playing.

Acoustic Finger-Picking

The intro and verses of "Mother" are based on a delicate finger-picking pattern on an acoustic guitar. This part is key to creating the song’s introspective atmosphere. The finger-picking technique teaches players control, independence between the thumb and fingers, and helps in developing a strong sense of rhythm and timing.

Why it’s valuable: Finger-picking improves dexterity and coordination, especially for players transitioning from strumming to more intricate arrangements. It’s also essential for building dynamics and expression on acoustic guitar.

Barre Chords and Chord Progressions

The rhythm parts in "Mother" feature barre chords and flowing chord progressions that form the harmonic backbone of the track. Playing these smoothly is crucial to maintaining the song’s natural flow and melancholy feel.

Why it’s valuable: Mastering barre chords and progressions gives guitarists the freedom to play in any key and unlocks more complex song arrangements across genres.

Slides and Hammer-ons

Gilmour’s melodic lines often make use of expressive slides and hammer-ons, particularly in the subtle lead phrases sprinkled throughout the track. These techniques add a vocal-like quality to the guitar, mimicking the human voice and lending emotion to every note.

Why it’s valuable: Learning these expressive tools helps players craft solos and phrases that resonate emotionally, rather than just technically.

String Bending and Vibrato

The emotional impact of the solo in "Mother" lies heavily in the tasteful use of string bending and vibrato. Gilmour’s bends are perfectly in tune, and his slow, wide vibrato adds depth and sustain to each note.

Why it’s valuable: These techniques teach pitch control and expression, essential for crafting memorable solos and lead lines that speak to the listener.

Double Stops

The solo also features the occasional use of double stops, providing harmonic richness and emphasising key phrases. Gilmour uses these sparingly, but effectively, to add power and emotion to the climactic moments of the lead.

Why it’s valuable: Double stops allow players to incorporate harmonies into lead work and create fuller-sounding phrases without sacrificing clarity.

Sustain and Tone Control

One of the standout elements of Gilmour’s playing is his ability to milk every ounce of tone and sustain from his notes. Whether it's from precise finger vibrato or his signature amp and effects setup, learning how to replicate this feel is a huge benefit for any lead guitarist.

Why it’s valuable: Working on sustain and tone control sharpens your ear and helps you develop a personal voice on the instrument, beyond just playing the right notes.

Guitar Techniques Used in the Lesson

Here’s a breakdown of the guitar techniques covered in our "Mother" lesson, each with an internal link for further study:

• Finger-Picking
• Barre Chords
• Chord Progressions
• Slides
• Hammer-Ons
• String Bending
• Vibrato
• Double Stops
• Sustain

Whether you're a beginner aiming to build a solid foundation or an experienced player seeking to capture Gilmour’s iconic phrasing, our lesson on "Mother" will guide you through every detail. Learn how to channel emotion through your guitar, enhance your technique, and bring new depth to your playing—all while mastering one of Pink Floyd’s most poignant compositions.