Born To Be Wild by Steppenwolf Chords & Tabs - Linwolf Sylrwood

Tabs Analysis for Guitar Composition

1. Unique Features of the Tabs

This guitar composition exhibits several distinctive characteristics that set it apart, particularly in its rhythmic phrasing and dynamic articulation.

• Measure 5 features a series of slurred notes (notated as (B3SC4)), creating a legato effect that contrasts with the staccato passages leading into it. This interplay highlights the emotional depth of the piece and showcases the guitarist's ability to manipulate tone color through varied articulation.

• Measure 10 stands out with a sequence of intricate hammer-ons and pull-offs, indicated as (B3HC4) and (B3PC4). This technique not only adds a fluid movement to a melodic line but also emphasizes key melodic notes, drawing the listener's attention.

• Measure 12 utilizes the unique technique of harmonics ((B3G3Harm)), which adds an ethereal quality to the composition, marking it as a highlight section where the guitarist can show off both technical skill and interpretative capabilities.

These musical elements work together to create a distinctive soundscape, inviting the performer to explore a range of timbres and articulations.

2. Performance Challenges and Techniques

While the piece showcases lyrical beauty, several sections present significant technical challenges:

• Challenging Sections:

  • Measures 6-8: These measures contain a rapid sequence of sixteenth notes (C___) involving complex finger movements across the fretboard. Here, transitions between the 2nd and 5th frets require precise finger placement and timing.
  • Measure 12: The use of harmonics demands both finger strength and precision, as the performer must find the exact fret locations while ensuring consistent sound quality.

• Solutions:

  • For Measures 6-8, practitioners should break down the sequence into manageable parts, practicing each section at a slower tempo before incrementally increasing speed. Focus on finger independence and relaxation to avoid tension.
  • In Measure 12, exercises using open strings to practice harmonic locations can help in developing confidence. Using the thumb as a natural anchor can also ensure better control during finger transitions.

3. Practice Recommendations

To effectively tackle the performance challenges highlighted in this composition, it is essential to employ a strategic practice regime:

• Focus on Finger Technique: For the intricate sections in Measures 6-8, consider the following:

  • Drills: Use chromatic exercises on the same frets to establish comfort and muscle memory. Focus on smooth transitions and even timing, setting a metronome to monitor rhythm.
  • Isolated Practice: Work on the specific finger placements required in these sixteenth-note sections separately from any rhythm coordination to isolate technical difficulty.

• Harmonics Mastery: In Measure 12, work on harmonic techniques:

  • Practice Approach: Isolate the harmonic notes and practice finding them without strumming the other strings. Use a clean, clear tone to distinguish the harmonic pitches and develop confidence in their execution.
  • Dynamic Control: Following this, incorporate dynamic changes by playing some notes softer or louder for expressive purposes. Make sure these dynamics do not compromise the clarity of the harmonics.

By focusing on these targeted exercises across the highlighted sections, performers will not only conquer the technical elements within this composition but will also enhance their overall playing skills, integrating expressive techniques that resonate throughout their musicianship. This approach ultimately transforms the challenging aspects of the tabs into valuable opportunities for growth as a guitarist.