Learn to Play "Something" by The Beatles
"Something" by The Beatles is one of the most iconic love ballads of all time, written by George Harrison and featured on the legendary album Abbey Road. The song showcases masterful songwriting paired with a delicate yet impactful guitar performance, making it a must-learn for guitarists looking to expand their skills and expressiveness. This lesson dives deep into the guitar techniques used in the song, providing a detailed exploration of how each technique enhances your playing. Michael Casswell breaks down this classic track in this exclusive Lick Library video tutorial.
About the Guitarist: George Harrison’s Influence
George Harrison, often referred to as the "quiet Beatle," was a revolutionary guitarist whose contributions to The Beatles shaped the sound of modern music. In "Something," Harrison's subtle yet poignant approach to the guitar melds seamlessly with the song's romantic tone. His use of melodic phrasing, expressive bends, and precise articulation exemplifies his ability to transform simple ideas into profound musical statements. By studying Harrison’s techniques in this song, guitarists can learn the art of tasteful playing that prioritises emotion over technical flashiness.
Guitar Techniques Explored in the Lesson
Slides
Slides are used extensively throughout "Something" to create smooth, lyrical transitions between notes. This technique adds a vocal-like quality to your playing, enhancing expressiveness. Practicing slides improves your finger control and helps you maintain a fluid motion along the fretboard.
String Bending
String bending is a hallmark of Harrison’s lead playing in "Something." By bending notes up to precise pitches, Harrison adds a singing quality to the melody, emphasising emotion in key moments. Mastering string bends improves pitch accuracy and helps you add dynamic tension to your solos.
Vibrato
Harrison’s vibrato technique shines in "Something," where he applies it delicately to sustain notes and add richness to his phrasing. Vibrato not only enhances the sustain of a note but also gives you greater control over its tonal character, making your playing more expressive.
Hammer-Ons and Pull-Offs
These techniques are utilised to create smooth, flowing lines within the solos. Hammer-ons and pull-offs allow for faster, more legato phrasing, giving your playing a lyrical quality reminiscent of vocal runs. They also enhance finger strength and dexterity.
Double Stops
Double stops—playing two notes simultaneously—add harmonic depth to lead passages. Harrison uses this technique to create lush textures that complement the melody. Practicing double stops improves your finger independence and helps you explore harmonic interplay in your solos.
Learn more about double stops.
Arpeggiated Chord Progressions
The rhythm guitar in "Something" features arpeggiated chord progressions, which involve picking the individual notes of a chord in sequence rather than strumming them all at once. This technique creates a more intricate and engaging accompaniment. Learning arpeggios improves your picking accuracy and chordal knowledge.
Finger-Picking
Harrison’s subtle finger-picking style adds a gentle, personal touch to the rhythm guitar parts. This technique enhances your control over dynamics and helps you achieve a softer, more nuanced sound compared to using a pick.
Learn more about finger-picking.
Slides and Bluesy Bends
Harrison incorporates bluesy bends and slides in the solo, blending blues influences with the melodic pop sensibilities of The Beatles. These techniques lend a soulful character to the performance, making it both emotionally resonant and musically compelling.
Learn more about bluesy bends.
Why Learn These Techniques?
- Improved Expression: Techniques like vibrato, string bending, and slides allow you to convey emotion through your playing.
- Enhanced Dexterity: Hammer-ons, pull-offs, and finger-picking challenge your fretting and picking hands, building strength and precision.
- Harmonic Knowledge: Arpeggios and double stops deepen your understanding of harmony and chord structures.
- Stylistic Versatility: Learning from Harrison’s approach can inspire new ways to integrate blues, pop, and classical influences into your playing.
Guitar Techniques in "Something"
Here’s a comprehensive list of guitar techniques covered in this lesson:
By learning "Something," you’ll gain a deeper appreciation for George Harrison’s artistry and develop skills that can elevate your guitar playing to new heights. Explore these techniques in-depth and start making your guitar sing like never before!
About The Tutor
Tutor Profile
Michael Casswell
It is with great sadness that we post the news of Michael Casswell's tragic death in a swimming accident while on holiday in Spain. All of us at Licklibrary are shocked and saddened by MIke's passing, and our deepest sympathies go out to his family at this difficult time. Michael...