The Man Who Sold The World by David Bowie Chords & Tabs - Puclife

Guitar Tabs Analysis

Musical Analysis

The analyzed tabs presents a rich tapestry of melodic phrases and intricate techniques that are characteristic of advanced guitar compositions. One prominent feature is the use of hammer-ons (e.g., (B3HC4)) and pull-offs (e.g., (B3PC4)) found predominantly in small measures 8 to 10, creating fluid movement between notes. These techniques showcase the player's dexterity and enhance the lyrical quality of the piece.

Specifically, in measure 12, a sequence of slides (e.g., (B3SC4)) provides a smooth transition between pitches, adding emotional depth to the performance. The use of harmonics (e.g., (B3G3Harm)) in measures 16 and 17 introduces a unique sonic texture that contrasts sharply with the more conventional notes around it. These harmonic passages not only require precise fingering but also insight into timing and tonal quality.

Performance Challenges

The tabs does contain several performance challenges that may require focused practice.

1. Complex Fingerings: Measures 5 through 7 include intricate barre chords mixed with arpeggios, which may pose a challenge for less experienced players. The necessary finger stretches can be demanding, particularly in achieving clarity and sustain across all strings.

2. Speed and Fluidity: The aforementioned hammer-ons and pull-offs, especially in measures 8 to 10, require a high degree of coordination and speed. The performer must ensure that the hammer-on notes are executed cleanly without unintended noise from adjacent strings.

3. Dynamic Control: The use of palm muting (PM) and percussive hits (x) requires deliberate timing and distribution of hand movements. Measures 20 through 22 particularly showcase this technique, combining fast strums with muted notes that necessitate rhythmic precision.

Suggested Solutions

• For Complex Fingerings: Invest time on each barre chord, ensuring the thumb placement is correct for optimal pressure and clarity across chords. Encourage slow practice to ensure comfort before increasing speed.

• For Speed and Fluidity: Use a metronome to gradually increase tempo while practicing the hammer-ons and pull-offs. Begin slowly to master their execution, then increase the tempo in increments.

• For Dynamic Control: Practice segments involving palm muting separately, focusing first on the muted hits before integrating full strums. Experiment with hand placement to find the most comfortable position for achieving a consistent muted sound.

Practice Recommendations

To navigate the challenges present in this music effectively, the following specific practice strategies are recommended:

1. Targeting Complex Fingerings:

   • Measures 5-7: Isolate these measures and practice transitioning slowly between the chords, ensuring each note rings out clearly. Use fingerings that are comfortable and reposition your left hand as needed to reduce strain.

2. Improving Speed and Fluidity:

   • Measures 8-10: Break down the section into smaller phrases. Focus on the hammer-ons and pull-offs, slowly building up speed while ensuring clean articulation.

3. Enhancing Dynamic Control:

   • Measures 20-22: Isolate practice on the muted and percussive elements. Without playing the melodic line, focus solely on the timing of the palm muting and percussion hits, using a metronome to keep a steady rhythm.

By centering practice around these specific sections and techniques, players can significantly enhance their performance capabilities and overall enjoyment of this engaging and technically demanding tabs.