How to Play “Love Will Tear Us Apart” on Guitar
For guitar enthusiasts and fans of Joy Division, learning how to play “Love Will Tear Us Apart” on guitar is a dream come true. This iconic song, released in 1980, has left an indelible mark on the music world. With its haunting lyrics and atmospheric sound, “Love Will Tear Us Apart” has become a staple in the post-punk genre. In this article, we will guide you through the essential steps and techniques to master this classic tune on the guitar.
Before diving into the details, it’s important to familiarize yourself with the song’s structure. “Love Will Tear Us Apart” is a three-chord song, with the chords G, D, and A being the main components. The song follows a simple chord progression, which repeats throughout the entire track. To play the song, you’ll need to be proficient in these three chords and be able to switch between them smoothly.
1. Learn the Chords: Begin by learning the G, D, and A chords. Practice each chord individually, focusing on proper finger placement and strumming technique. Use a metronome to maintain a consistent tempo and ensure you’re playing the chords in time.
2. Practice Switching Chords: Once you’re comfortable with each chord, start practicing the chord progression. Begin by playing the G chord, then switch to the D chord, and finally move to the A chord. Repeat this sequence multiple times, gradually increasing the speed to build muscle memory.
3. Strumming Pattern: The strumming pattern for “Love Will Tear Us Apart” is straightforward. Use a downstroke for the G chord, followed by an upstroke for the D chord, and then a downstroke for the A chord. Continue this pattern throughout the song, maintaining a steady rhythm.
4. Add Palm Muting: To achieve the signature sound of “Love Will Tear Us Apart,” palm mute the strings while strumming. This technique creates a muted, percussive sound that adds depth to the song. Palm muting involves resting the edge of your picking hand on the strings, just above the bridge, to dampen the sound.
5. Practice the Riff: The riff in “Love Will Tear Us Apart” is a key element of the song. It involves playing the G, D, and A chords in quick succession, creating a driving rhythm. Practice this riff separately, focusing on the timing and the transition between chords.
6. Play the Full Song: Once you’re confident with the chords, strumming pattern, and riff, put it all together to play the full song. Start with the intro, followed by the main riff, and then the verse and chorus. Pay attention to the dynamics and mood of the song, and try to convey the emotion behind the lyrics.
Remember, practice is key to mastering “Love Will Tear Us Apart” on guitar. Take your time to learn each part of the song, and don’t be discouraged if it takes a while to get it right. With persistence and dedication, you’ll soon be able to play this classic tune with confidence and pride.
