How to Play “Broken Wings” by Alter Bridge on Guitar
“Broken Wings” by Alter Bridge is a powerful and emotional song that has captivated guitarists and fans alike since its release. The song features intricate guitar riffs and solos that require a combination of technical skill and feel. In this article, we will guide you through the essential steps and techniques needed to play “Broken Wings” on guitar.
Before diving into the song, it’s important to familiarize yourself with the key and tempo of “Broken Wings.” The song is written in the key of A minor and is performed at a moderate tempo of around 100 bpm. To achieve the desired tone, we recommend using a clean sound with moderate gain settings on your amplifier.
Section 1: The Intro
The intro of “Broken Wings” consists of a series of fast-paced, finger-tapping guitar riffs. To play this section, you will need to be comfortable with alternate picking and finger-tapping techniques. Start by practicing the following pattern:
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A|——————————————————–|
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This pattern should be played with alternate picking, starting with downstrokes on the first note of each string. As you become more comfortable with the pattern, gradually increase the speed to match the tempo of the song.
Section 2: The Chorus
The chorus of “Broken Wings” features a melodic guitar riff that requires both accuracy and timing. To play this section, you will need to use a combination of alternate picking and economy picking techniques. Here’s a breakdown of the riff:
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e|——————————————————–|
B|——————————————————–|
G|——————————————————–|
D|——————————————————–|
A|——————————————————–|
E|——————————————————–|
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The riff should be played with alternate picking, using downstrokes for the first note of each string and upstrokes for the second note. For the second note of each string, use an economy pick to achieve a smooth transition between notes.
Section 3: The Solos
The solos in “Broken Wings” are a showcase of the guitarist’s technical prowess. To play these solos, you will need to be proficient in both fast and slow playing techniques. Start by practicing the following solo patterns:
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B|——————————————————–|
G|——————————————————–|
D|——————————————————–|
A|——————————————————–|
E|——————————————————–|
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This pattern should be played with alternate picking, focusing on maintaining a consistent tempo and dynamic range. As you become more comfortable with the pattern, experiment with different scales and techniques to add your own flair to the solos.
Conclusion
Playing “Broken Wings” by Alter Bridge on guitar requires a combination of technical skill, feel, and practice. By following the steps outlined in this article, you will be well on your way to mastering this iconic song. Remember to take your time, practice consistently, and enjoy the process of learning a new piece of music.
