Back in the USSR – The Beatles

Dive into the timeless energy of The Beatles' classic "Back in the USSR" with Licklibrary.com's comprehensive note-for-note guitar lesson. This iconic track is a blend of rock 'n' roll, surf rock, and Beatles’ charm, offering guitarists the chance to master techniques that are both foundational and fun. Our lesson breaks down every riff, rhythm, and solo, teaching you the techniques that make the song so memorable while improving your guitar skills. Michael Casswell breaks down this classic track in this exclusive Lick Library video tutorial.

The Beatles and Their Influence on "Back in the USSR"

"Back in the USSR" is a standout track from The Beatles' 1968 "White Album." Written primarily by Paul McCartney, it showcases his remarkable versatility as he performed bass, rhythm guitar, and drums due to internal band tensions during the recording. The song draws inspiration from Chuck Berry and The Beach Boys, blending humour, cultural satire, and musical brilliance.

The guitar work in "Back in the USSR" reflects the energy and innovation of the late '60s, with McCartney's melodic ingenuity and George Harrison's technical sophistication playing key roles. Learning this song connects you to a pivotal moment in rock history while celebrating The Beatles' lasting influence on guitar music.

Techniques Covered in the Lesson

Power Chords

Power chords form the foundation of the rhythm in "Back in the USSR." These straightforward, punchy chords are essential for creating the driving energy of rock music. Mastering power chords enhances your ability to play rhythmically with precision and confidence.

Barre Chords

The track incorporates barre chords, a staple in The Beatles' catalog. These shapes allow for versatile playing across the fretboard, giving you the freedom to experiment with various chord voicings and transitions.

Slides

Slides add expressive movement to the song’s riffs. This technique is key to achieving a fluid, vocal-like quality in your playing, making your leads and transitions more dynamic.

Double Stops

Double stops are used in the guitar parts to create a rich, harmonic texture. This technique adds depth to your playing and is invaluable for creating fuller-sounding leads.

String Bending

String bending is employed to inject emotion and character into the guitar lines. Learning to control your bends ensures your notes are expressive and perfectly pitched.

Palm Muting

The rhythm sections utilise palm muting for a percussive and tight sound. Mastering this technique improves your control over dynamics and tone, an essential skill for rhythm guitarists.

Arpeggios

Arpeggios appear in the fills and backing guitar lines, adding musical complexity. Practicing arpeggios sharpens your picking precision and strengthens your understanding of chord tones.

Hammer-Ons and Pull-Offs

These techniques bring fluidity to the song's riffs, enabling seamless note transitions. Learning hammer-ons and pull-offs enhances your legato playing and speeds up your fretwork.

Benefits of Learning These Techniques

• Enhanced Rhythm Skills: Techniques like power chords, palm muting, and barre chords improve your ability to play rhythm guitar effectively.
• Increased Expressiveness: Slides, string bending, and double stops add a personal, expressive touch to your solos and riffs.
• Technical Dexterity: Hammer-ons, pull-offs, and arpeggios refine your picking hand coordination and finger strength.
• Musical Insight: Analysing and playing through "Back in the USSR" provides a deeper understanding of how iconic songs are constructed.

List of Guitar Techniques in "Back in the USSR"

• Power Chords
• Barre Chords
• Slides
• Double Stops
• String Bending
• Palm Muting
• Arpeggios
• Hammer-Ons
• Pull-Offs

Unleash your potential as a guitarist by mastering "Back in the USSR" with our detailed lesson. Every riff you learn is another step toward developing a more dynamic and versatile guitar style!