How to Play “Stolen” on Guitar
Playing “Stolen” by Brand New on guitar is a rewarding challenge for any aspiring guitarist. This song, known for its intricate guitar parts and emotional depth, has become a staple in the indie rock genre. Whether you’re a beginner or an experienced guitarist, mastering “Stolen” can help you improve your skills and add a unique touch to your guitar repertoire. In this article, we’ll guide you through the process of learning how to play “Stolen” on guitar, step by step.
First, let’s discuss the basic structure of the song. “Stolen” is composed of several distinct parts, including the intro, verses, pre-chorus, chorus, and bridge. Each part requires a specific set of guitar techniques and chord progressions. To get started, you’ll need to familiarize yourself with the song’s key and tempo. “Stolen” is in the key of E minor and typically played at a moderate tempo.
Next, let’s dive into the intro. The intro of “Stolen” is characterized by a repetitive arpeggiated pattern in the E minor key. To play this part, you’ll need to alternate between the E minor chord and the E minor 7th chord. Use your fingers to strum the strings in a downward motion while pressing down on the appropriate frets. Be sure to keep a steady rhythm and maintain a consistent volume throughout the intro.
Moving on to the verses, “Stolen” features a clean guitar sound with a variety of chord progressions. The first verse is in the key of E minor and follows a simple chord progression: E minor, G major, C major, A minor. Practice each chord individually before combining them into a full progression. To create a smooth transition between chords, use a picking motion called “hybrid picking,” which involves using both your fingers and thumb to pluck the strings.
The pre-chorus introduces a more dynamic guitar part, featuring palm muting and power chords. Palm muting involves resting your palm on the strings near the bridge to create a muted, rhythmic sound. To play the pre-chorus, you’ll need to switch between the E minor chord and the E5 power chord. Focus on maintaining a consistent strumming pattern and practicing the palm muting technique to achieve the desired effect.
The chorus of “Stolen” is where the song really comes together. It features a melodic, upbeat guitar part that complements the vocals. To play the chorus, you’ll need to use a combination of fingerpicking and strumming. The chorus follows a chord progression of E minor, G major, C major, and A minor, similar to the verses. However, the rhythm and strumming pattern are slightly different, requiring a more syncopated approach. Practice the chorus slowly at first, focusing on the rhythm and melody, before gradually increasing the tempo.
The bridge of “Stolen” introduces a new guitar part, characterized by a series of fast, fingerpicked notes. This part requires precise timing and coordination. To play the bridge, you’ll need to use a combination of alternate picking and fingerpicking techniques. Pay close attention to the rhythm and note values, as the bridge can be challenging to master. Practice the bridge slowly and gradually increase the tempo as you become more comfortable with the pattern.
Once you’ve mastered each part of “Stolen,” it’s time to put everything together. Practice playing the song in its entirety, focusing on maintaining a consistent tempo and rhythm. Pay attention to the transitions between parts and ensure that your fingerpicking and strumming techniques are consistent throughout the song.
Playing “Stolen” on guitar is a challenging but rewarding endeavor. By following these steps and practicing diligently, you’ll be able to master this iconic indie rock song and enhance your guitar skills in the process. Happy playing!
