Introduction:

Seven Nation Army is an iconic song by The White Stripes that has become an anthem in many events and gatherings. Known for its prominent bass riff, the song can actually be played easily on a guitar by master and beginner alike. In this article, we will guide you step-by-step on how to play Seven Nation Army on your guitar.

Step 1: Get Familiar with the Tune

Before you begin, make sure to listen to the song ‘Seven Nation Army’ multiple times. This practice will help you become familiar with the tune and overall structure of the song, making it easier as you learn to play it on your guitar.

Step 2: Tune Your Guitar

Make sure your guitar is in standard tuning (E-A-D-G-B-E). If necessary, use a tuner to ensure the correct tuning of your instrument

Step 3: Learn the Main Riff

The central part of Seven Nation Army consists of seven simple notes which form a recognizable riff. Here’s how to play those seven notes:

E|——————-

B|——————-

G|——————-

D|—7—7—–5—–

A|-5—5—5-7——-

E|——————-

Use your index finger to press down on the fifth fret of the A string and pluck it. This is E note.

Next, use your ring finger to press down the seventh fret of D string for two times. This is B note.

Go back to A string on fifth fret for one more E note.

Afterward, use middle finger to press A string on sixth fret; this is C note.

Lastly, play two notes from E string by pressing down seventh fret of A string (D note) and finishing at fifth fret of D string (G note).

Start slow and gradually increase your speed as you get comfortable with the riff.

Step 4: Master the Chorus

The chorus is simple as well. It consists of these chords: G5, A5, and B5. Here’s how to play them:

G5:

E|——

B|——

G|—4–

D|—5–

A|-3—-

E|——

A5:

E|——–

B|——–

G|-2——

D|–2—–

A|-0——

E|——–

B5:

E|——–

B|——-

G|–4—-

D|–4—-

A|–2—-

E|——–

Step 5: Put It All Together

Now that you know the main riff and the chords for the chorus, it’s time to put it all together. Play through the entire song, alternating between the main riff and the chords for the chorus.

Verse: Main Riff (8 times)

Pre-Chorus: A5 (2 times) – B5 (2 times)

Chorus: G5 (4 times)

Verse: Main Riff (8 times)

Pre-chorus: A5 (2 times) – B5 (2 times)

Chorus: G5 (4 times)

Verse/Outro: Main Riff (16 times)

Take it slow, practice each section separately, and eventually, you’ll be able to play Seven Nation Army effortlessly on your guitar.

Conclusion:

Playing Seven Nation Army on a guitar is an enjoyable and rewarding experience for players of all levels. By following these simple steps and practicing regularly, you’ll be able to add this classic song to your repertoire in no time. Enjoy playing!