Creep by Radiohead

Take a deep dive into one of the most iconic alternative rock anthems of the 1990s with our detailed, note-for-note Creep guitar lesson from LickLibrary.com. This comprehensive lesson breaks down every part of the song’s structure and style, allowing guitarists of all levels to connect with the emotion and technique behind one of Radiohead’s most recognisable hits. Jamie Humphries breaks down this classic track in this exclusive Lick Library video tutorial.

About the Song: Creep

Released in 1992 as the debut single by English rock band Radiohead, Creep has become a timeless anthem of alienation and introspection. The song is best known for its powerful chord progression, dynamic contrast between verse and chorus, and the explosive, distorted guitar bursts that make it instantly recognisable. With its melancholic tone and raw delivery, Creep is both haunting and relatable—a perfect track for players looking to expand their emotional range on the guitar.

The Guitar Work in Creep

Creep might seem simple at first listen, but it is full of guitar techniques that are both expressive and powerful. The interplay between clean and distorted tones helps players learn how to shape dynamics in a song, while specific techniques used by guitarist Jonny Greenwood add a distinct edge that turns a straightforward progression into a powerful sonic experience.

Our lesson focuses on breaking down each section of the song, offering insight into both rhythm and lead parts. Whether you’re playing the melancholic verse or digging into the heavy, feedback-laden chorus, we’ll guide you through the techniques used to make this song unforgettable.

Guitar Techniques Covered

Power Chords

A major building block in rock guitar, power chords are used throughout Creep to drive the song’s progressions. Mastering these chords helps build strength and control in your fretting hand while laying the foundation for countless other rock and punk songs.

String Bending

Jonny Greenwood’s signature bursts of noise in the chorus rely heavily on string bending. This technique adds tension, emotion, and aggression to the performance. Practicing bends improves pitch control and expressive phrasing.

Slides

Smooth transitions between notes in Creep are executed using slides. This technique contributes to the song’s emotional fluidity and adds a vocal-like quality to your playing. Slides enhance your ability to connect melodic phrases seamlessly.

Palm Muting

The verses are played with subtle, rhythmic palm muting, which helps to create contrast and build tension leading into the explosive choruses. Palm muting tightens up your rhythm and gives you more dynamic control.

Hammer-ons and Pull-offs

These fundamental techniques show up in melodic embellishments and are essential for legato playing. Practicing hammer-ons and pull-offs develops finger strength, coordination, and smoothness in your lead lines.

Barre Chords

The ability to cleanly execute barre chords is crucial in Creep, especially during the verse and chorus progressions. Mastering this technique enables you to play a wide variety of chords and enhances hand endurance.

Distortion and Dynamic Contrast

While not a “technique” in the traditional sense, understanding how and when to use distortion is a key part of playing Creep. The sharp contrast between the clean verses and distorted choruses teaches players how to use tonal shifts for emotional impact.

About the Guitarist: Jonny Greenwood

Jonny Greenwood, Radiohead’s lead guitarist, is widely considered one of the most innovative and expressive guitarists of his generation. Known for his unconventional playing style and use of effects, Greenwood combines classical music training with a raw rock sensibility. On Creep, his explosive guitar interjections in the chorus became a defining element of the track, perfectly complementing Thom Yorke’s anguished vocals. Greenwood’s approach challenges guitarists to think beyond scales and licks, and instead focus on tone, emotion, and texture.

Why Learn Creep?

Learning Creep gives guitar players a comprehensive introduction to expressive playing. The track’s blend of rhythm and lead parts, its iconic chord progression, and the dynamic use of distortion provide a full toolkit for anyone looking to level up their playing. Whether you're a beginner mastering power chords or an intermediate guitarist working on bends and tone shaping, this lesson is a valuable addition to your repertoire.

Guitar Techniques Used in Creep

• Power Chords
• String Bending
• Slides
• Palm Muting
• Hammer-ons
• Pull-offs
• Barre Chords

Unlock the full emotional and technical depth of Creep with this exclusive LickLibrary.com lesson and gain essential skills to boost your guitar playing to new heights.