Mastering the Art of Playing ‘Rip and Tear’ on the Guitar- Techniques and Tips Unveiled
How to Play “Rip and Tear” on Guitar
Guitarists often seek to master classic rock songs that have left a lasting impact on the music industry. One such song is “Rip and Tear” by the legendary band AC/DC. Known for its powerful riffs and energetic rhythm, “Rip and Tear” is a must-learn for any guitar enthusiast. In this article, we will guide you through the essential steps to play “Rip and Tear” on guitar, ensuring that you can rock out like Angus Young in no time.
Understanding the Song Structure
Before diving into the guitar tabs, it’s crucial to understand the song structure of “Rip and Tear.” The song consists of three main parts: the intro, the main riff, and the solo. The intro is a short, melodic section that sets the tone for the rest of the song. The main riff is the iconic, driving part that powers the song, and the solo is a showcase of technical skill and creativity.
Learning the Intro
The intro of “Rip and Tear” is a simple, yet catchy melody that can be played using a combination of open strings and fretted notes. Start by tuning your guitar to the standard E minor tuning (EADGBE). To play the intro, follow these steps:
1. Play the open E string.
2. Move to the second fret on the A string and play a minor third (E minor third).
3. Move to the third fret on the D string and play a major third (E major third).
4. Move to the fourth fret on the G string and play a minor third (E minor third).
5. Move to the fifth fret on the B string and play a major third (E major third).
6. Return to the open E string.
Repeat this pattern until the intro ends.
Mastering the Main Riff
The main riff of “Rip and Tear” is a classic AC/DC power chord riff. To play it, follow these steps:
1. Tune your guitar to the standard E minor tuning (EADGBE).
2. Play the following power chords:
– E minor (EADGBE)
– G major (GBDFE)
– E minor (EADGBE)
– G major (GBDFE)
3. Repeat this pattern throughout the song, emphasizing the downstroke for a heavier sound.
Playing the Solo
The solo in “Rip and Tear” is a showcase of Angus Young’s guitar prowess. To play the solo, follow these steps:
1. Tune your guitar to the standard E minor tuning (EADGBE).
2. Begin with a series of fast, alternate-picked notes, starting with the E minor pentatonic scale (E, G, A, B, D).
3. Move to the G major scale (G, A, B, C, D, E, F) for a few bars.
4. Return to the E minor pentatonic scale for the remainder of the solo.
5. Add bends, vibrato, and palm muting to add emotion and dynamics to your playing.
Practicing and Improving
Now that you have the basic tabs and techniques for “Rip and Tear,” it’s time to practice. Start by playing along with the song to get the timing and rhythm down. Then, focus on improving your technique by practicing the solo and main riff at different speeds. With dedication and persistence, you’ll soon be able to play “Rip and Tear” with confidence and pride.
Remember, learning a classic rock song like “Rip and Tear” is not just about mastering the guitar tabs; it’s about understanding the music and expressing yourself through your playing. Enjoy the journey and rock on!
