Wind of Change – Scorpions

Take a deep dive into one of the most iconic rock ballads of all time with our note-for-note guitar lesson of Wind of Change by Scorpions. This in-depth lesson captures every nuance of the original track, from the emotive clean tones and melodic solos to the expressive bending and vibrato that define the song’s unforgettable guitar work. Whether you're an intermediate player looking to level up or a seasoned guitarist wanting to master this legendary tune, this lesson offers everything you need to recreate the magic of Wind of Change with precision and feel. Danny Gill breaks down this classic track in this exclusive Lick Library video tutorial.

About the Song and Guitarists

Released in 1990 on the album Crazy World, Wind of Change became an international anthem of hope and unity following the fall of the Berlin Wall. The song was penned by Scorpions' lead singer Klaus Meine, but the guitar work that supports the melody is crafted with finesse by legendary guitarist Matthias Jabs, with contributions from rhythm guitarist Rudolf Schenker.

Jabs is known for his precise technique, melodic sensibility, and tasteful soloing—traits that shine throughout Wind of Change. His ability to blend expressive lead lines with technical accuracy makes him a highly influential figure in rock and hard rock guitar. Schenker’s rhythm playing adds depth and solid structure to the track, grounding Jabs’ soaring lead lines. Studying their playing not only helps guitarists understand the song itself but also offers valuable insights into melodic phrasing and tone control in rock ballads.

Song Breakdown & Key Guitar Techniques

Intro and Verse: Melodic Phrasing and Clean Tone Control

The opening whistle melody is mirrored beautifully on the guitar using clean tones and expressive phrasing. Guitarists will work on developing subtle vibrato and accurate slides to emulate the vocal-like quality of the main melody. Learning this section trains players in articulation and touch sensitivity—essential skills for emotional expression on the instrument.

Pre-Chorus: Chord Progressions and Dynamic Changes

In the pre-chorus, the focus shifts to smooth chord progressions and dynamic rhythm playing. Players learn how to move between open and barre chords while maintaining a balanced dynamic range. Mastering these transitions enhances rhythm control and song flow comprehension.

Chorus: Octave Melodies and Sustained Notes

The chorus features powerful octave melodies that elevate the energy of the song. These parts are excellent for developing pitch control and melodic awareness. In addition, players will benefit from learning how to use sustain to hold notes with emotional intensity, reinforcing phrasing skills.

Solo: Bends, Legato, and Harmonics

Matthias Jabs delivers a solo that is both lyrical and technical. Students will explore expressive string bending, melodic legato passages, and tasteful use of harmonics. These techniques push players to develop greater control, tone variation, and expressive soloing capability.

Outro: Emotional Recap and Dynamic Control

The outro revisits the main melodic themes, allowing players to further refine their vibrato and phrasing. It's a perfect section for reinforcing all the expressive techniques covered in the song and provides a satisfying conclusion to a deeply musical journey.

Why Learn Wind of Change?

Learning Wind of Change offers guitarists the chance to work on a wide range of essential techniques in a musical and expressive context. It’s not just about technical chops—it’s about developing your ability to convey emotion through your playing. The slower tempo and melodic focus make it ideal for players who want to deepen their feel and touch on the instrument.

Whether you’re performing the song live, playing along at home, or simply adding to your technique toolbox, this lesson equips you with skills that transcend genres.

Techniques Covered

• Vibrato
• Slides
• Chord Progressions
• Octave Melodies
• Sustain
• String Bending
• Legato
• Harmonics

Let this lesson guide you through the emotional power and technical artistry of one of rock's most iconic guitar-driven ballads. Start your journey with Wind of Change today on LickLibrary.com.