Introduction
Introduction:
Chet is a fingerpicking legend and in this song he used Travis picking technique which helped him in building amazing melody and harmonisation with other instruments.
Chords Used in Song Guitar Lesson:
Arpeggios Verse & Chorus Chords: The song follows the typical chord progression in the key of C major, which incorporates the dominant 7th in addition to the passing chords to add richness.
The arpeggios patterns are as follows:
Bass: C - G - C - G
(A) (D) (A) (D)
Melody: pluck pluck
(B) (G)
Strumming Pattern:
Mr Bojangles doesn’t follow your traditional strumming pattern because it uses fingerstyle arrangement. In here the thumb is playing alternative bass notes while fingers are used for plucking chords for harmony and melody.
The most common fingerstyle arrangement that you can follow for this is T - F - T - F
- T (Thumb) plays the bass notes on the low strings (E, A, or D)
- F (Fingers - Index/Middle) pluck the melody notes on the higher strings (G, B, or E)
Song Structure:
Introduction: In this introduction by Muriel Anderson your guitar instructor for this song lesson you will get to know about the finger arrangement used and fingerstyle that you have to follow.
Section A - Part 1: Muriel has divided the song in different parts and this is the part 1 of the song arrangement. Here you will learn the chords you will be playing at the intro of the song.
Section A - Part 2: In this part you will learn the remaining chords for the intro section of the song.
Section B: From here, you will be moving to the second half of the song.
Turnaround Variation: Right here in the guitar lesson, you will learn how to smoothly transition from one guitar section to the other in the song. It will follow a shorter chord progression.
Variation: Your guitar instructor is going to show you how to make a slight change or embellishment in the melody while keeping the core structure of the song intact.
Tag: In here you will learn about the tag which is the small section repeated after you complete with the verse guitar tunes.
Conclusion: This is the last part of this guitar lesson, here Muriel talks about the song and how one can make little improvisation in it to make it sound fuller.
This song has fast paced, driving strumming which allows you to develop strumming rhythm and endurance. It is pretty great for practicing dynamic strumming and percussive accents. Due to quick chord shifting you will be able to build finger strength and speed.
FAQs – This Song Guitar Lesson
Q1. What happened to the Mumford & Sons lead singer?
Ans. The lead singer of the group said that he will be leaving the band in October 2022 due to some controversial issues with the members. But he made sure that none of the band members and their families had to suffer any consequences.
Q2. Will Mumford & Sons be touring in 2025?
Ans. The band is embarking on a global club tour, which will start in March 2025.
Q3. What kind of band is Mumford & Sons?
Ans. They are a British folk-rock band who are known for their raucous, fast-paced, and sonically dense instrumentation. The lyrics are highly concentrated on christianity.
Mr Bojangles
Introduction
Section A - Part 1
Section A - Part 2
Section B
Turnaround Variation
Variation
Tag
Conclusion
Introduction:
Chet is a fingerpicking legend and in this song he used Travis picking technique which helped him in building amazing melody and harmonisation with other instruments.
Chords Used in Song Guitar Lesson:
Arpeggios Verse & Chorus Chords: The song follows the typical chord progression in the key of C major, which incorporates the dominant 7th in addition to the passing chords to add richness.
The arpeggios patterns are as follows:
Bass: C - G - C - G
(A) (D) (A) (D)
Melody: pluck pluck
(B) (G)
Strumming Pattern:
Mr Bojangles doesn’t follow your traditional strumming pattern because it uses fingerstyle arrangement. In here the thumb is playing alternative bass notes while fingers are used for plucking chords for harmony and melody.
The most common fingerstyle arrangement that you can follow for this is T - F - T - F
- T (Thumb) plays the bass notes on the low strings (E, A, or D)
- F (Fingers - Index/Middle) pluck the melody notes on the higher strings (G, B, or E)
Song Structure:
Introduction: In this introduction by Muriel Anderson your guitar instructor for this song lesson you will get to know about the finger arrangement used and fingerstyle that you have to follow.
Section A - Part 1: Muriel has divided the song in different parts and this is the part 1 of the song arrangement. Here you will learn the chords you will be playing at the intro of the song.
Section A - Part 2: In this part you will learn the remaining chords for the intro section of the song.
Section B: From here, you will be moving to the second half of the song.
Turnaround Variation: Right here in the guitar lesson, you will learn how to smoothly transition from one guitar section to the other in the song. It will follow a shorter chord progression.
Variation: Your guitar instructor is going to show you how to make a slight change or embellishment in the melody while keeping the core structure of the song intact.
Tag: In here you will learn about the tag which is the small section repeated after you complete with the verse guitar tunes.
Conclusion: This is the last part of this guitar lesson, here Muriel talks about the song and how one can make little improvisation in it to make it sound fuller.
This song has fast paced, driving strumming which allows you to develop strumming rhythm and endurance. It is pretty great for practicing dynamic strumming and percussive accents. Due to quick chord shifting you will be able to build finger strength and speed.
FAQs – This Song Guitar Lesson
Q1. What happened to the Mumford & Sons lead singer?
Ans. The lead singer of the group said that he will be leaving the band in October 2022 due to some controversial issues with the members. But he made sure that none of the band members and their families had to suffer any consequences.
Q2. Will Mumford & Sons be touring in 2025?
Ans. The band is embarking on a global club tour, which will start in March 2025.
Q3. What kind of band is Mumford & Sons?
Ans. They are a British folk-rock band who are known for their raucous, fast-paced, and sonically dense instrumentation. The lyrics are highly concentrated on christianity.
Mr Bojangles
Introduction
Section A - Part 1
Section A - Part 2
Section B
Turnaround Variation
Variation
Tag
Conclusion
Explore More in English Songs
Introduction:
Torrins brings you one of the most legendary rock riffs ever recorded-Smoke on the Water by Deep Purple, taught by Mike Walker. This guitar lesson is designed to break down the song step by step, covering everything from the iconic riff to solo improvisation. Whether you’re picking up the electric guitar for the first time or looking to level up your playing, this one’s a must-learn.
Fun Fact: Although the song appeared on Machine Head in 1972, it wasn’t released as a single until 1973. Surprisingly, the band didn’t expect it to be a hit. But it climbed to number 4 on the Billboard pop charts and became one of the most recognizable riffs in rock history.
Chords and Song Key
This lesson is taught in the key of B♭, but the song carries a G minor feel throughout. You’ll be using a few essential power chords like G5, A♭5, and others as you move through the sections.
The song’s time signature is 4/4, with a tempo of 112 BPM. Two main scales are used across the lesson: the G minor scale and the G blues pentatonic, both of which are central to the solo and improvisation parts.
Iconic Intro Riff
It’s the riff that every guitarist wants to play and for good reason. Mike breaks it down clearly, explaining which strings to let ring and how to get that gritty rock tone. He demonstrates both fingerpicking and pick-style playing, so you can choose the approach that suits you best.
Verse and Chorus Sections
In the verse, you’ll be working with a group of three chords, using arpeggios and palm muting to add texture. The phrasing follows a clean 4-bar structure, making it easy to follow.
The chorus section also relies on arpeggios. Mike walks through each measure in detail, grouping chords and explaining the rhythm so you can play with ease and confidence.
Rhythm Underneath the Solo
For the rhythm guitar players, Mike breaks down the part that supports the solo section. This part mostly uses just two chords, but involves some precise fingerpicking techniques to maintain the groove and drive.
Solo Lesson
Mike takes you through the solo lick by lick, staying in the G minor scale. He explores techniques like vibrato to add feel and energy. It’s a great way to learn how to play expressively.
Solo Demo and Improvisation
Once the solo is broken down, Mike ties everything together with a full solo demo played along with a backing track. Then comes the fun part, improvisation. He shares how to use:
- G minor and G pentatonic scales
- G pentatonic with a flat 5
- Phrasing on the 15th fret
You’ll also pick up a few stylistic ideas inspired by Jon Lord’s playing style, which adds a cool, classic-rock flavor to your soloing.
Why Learn - Smoke on the Water?
- One of the most famous riffs in rock history
- Teaches you both rhythm and lead techniques
- A solid introduction to rock improvisation
- Perfect for building confidence on the electric guitar
FAQs – Smoke on the Water Guitar Lesson
Q1. Is this song beginner-friendly?
Yes, and Mike simplifies each section so it’s approachable even if you’re just getting started.
Q2. Do I need an electric guitar?
It’s recommended, as this song is designed with electric tone and expression in mind.
Q3. Can I play the riff with a pick?
Absolutely. Mike shows both finger and pick methods—you can choose what feels right.
Introduction:
Torrins brings you an in-depth guitar lesson on Zero Tolerance by Death, taught by none other than Bobby Koelble—one of the original guitarists on the track. This lesson dissects the song’s intricate riffs, multiple solos, and unique techniques to help you master this classic death metal piece.
Fun Fact: The title Zero Tolerance was later used for two compilation albums released under Chuck Schuldiner’s name, featuring rare demo material from both Death and Control Denied.
Tuning and Song Structure
- Standard tuning, down a whole step.
- Multiple solos from both Chuck Schuldiner and Bobby Koelble.
- This Lesson is structured into key sections: Introduction, Intro Riff, Solo-1 (Chuck), Chorus, Bridge, Main Solos (Chuck & Bobby), Solo 2 (Bobby), Song Demo, and Final Note on Chorus.
- Make sure to use the provided chords and tabs to follow along!
Breaking Down the Song
Intro Riff
- Mostly in the key of E minor.
- Straightforward riff featuring power chords, including low E power chords.
- Incorporates muted string techniques for a tight and punchy sound.
First Solo (Chuck Schuldiner)
- Simple power chord progression in the background, one of which is C.
- Features an E minor major 7 arpeggio.
- Chuck was known for focusing on feel rather than strict technical terms—tune into the lesson for an in-depth breakdown!
Chorus
- Includes a riff and a melody.
- Has a slow tempo (for a Death song), making it one of the easier riffs to play.
- Features low E power chords, single notes, and palm-muted sections, along with other chords.
Bridge
- A relatively easy section featuring some power chords and palm-muted notes.
- Watch the lesson to master the additional chords!
Main Solo (Chuck Schuldiner)
- Opens with a harmonized melodic lick up the 3rd.
- Uses the A harmonic minor scale.
- Bobby shares valuable insights on writing melodic solos—a must-watch for aspiring songwriters.
Main Solo (Bobby Koelble)
- Played in F# minor.
- Starts with an introductory lick harmonized up a 5th, then shifts to a minor 3rd harmony.
- Solo is broken down into multiple digestible sections for easy learning.
Solo 2 (Bobby Koelble)
- A short but technical solo occurring between the verse and chorus.
- Starts with a C note and a tapped harmonic.
- This section covers artificial harmonics.
Final Note on Chorus
- Discusses the background chords heard in the final chorus.
- Bobby teaches unique finger positioning techniques to recreate the exact sound.
Song Demo & Summary
To wrap it all up, Bobby plays the full song with a backing track, demonstrating how all the sections come together.
Why Learn Zero Tolerance?
- Learn palm muting, power chord progressions, and harmonized melodies.
- Master multiple solo styles, from Chuck’s emotive phrasing to Bobby’s technical intricacies.
- Get valuable songwriting and soloing insights from an original artist of the song.
FAQs – Zero Tolerance Guitar Lesson
Q1. Is this lesson beginner-friendly?
- This lesson leans more towards intermediate to advanced players.
Q2. How can I improve my palm muting technique?
- Focus on muting with the side of your palm near the bridge while maintaining a tight, controlled attack.
Q3. Are tabs provided for the lesson?
- Yes! The chords and tabs included will help you nail every section.
Similar Fingerstyle Songs
Songs with Similar Difficulty
Introduction
Get ready to master another death metal classic on Torrins—Symbolic by the band Death. This lesson is taught by Bobby Koelble himself, one of the guitarists on the original track. Bobby breaks down the song into several parts, covering essential chords, rhythms, and guitar tones, ensuring a detailed and engaging learning experience.
Fun Fact
Bobby Koelble joined Death after being recommended to Chuck Schuldiner, the band's co-founder, by a friend working at a local music store. Koelble and Schuldiner had known each other since high school in Orlando. After joining the band, Koelble toured with Death across the United States, Canada, Europe, and Japan before the band eventually disbanded.
Chords and Techniques Used in Symbolic
- Tuning: Standard tuning down a whole step
- Key: E minor
- Some of the chords used in this song are G#, F#, Bm, and A7. Tune in to the lesson to know the rest of the chords used in this song.
Song Structure
- Main Riff: The main riff repeats seven times and features vibrato, alternative picking, and palm muting. It includes a few power chords, one being G#.
- Chorus: The chorus riff follows the same pattern as the main riff but repeats 14 times. Tune in to the lesson for a detailed breakdown of the rest of the chorus.
- Solo Section: The solo section features four power chords. In this section, there’s a transition riff as well, which consists of four single notes and a power chord.
- Solo section played by Bobby in the original song: It is played in the key of F# and features chords like B minor, F# power chord, and A7—all diatonic to F#. He breaks down the solo into three sections: beginning, middle, and end and shares valuable tips on mastering the solo, including his creative process behind crafting the iconic riff.
Bobby plays all elements slowly, first to make it easier to follow, then repeats them at normal speed. He also explains the guitar tone in detail.
Why Learn Symbolic?
This lesson provides a detailed breakdown of one of death metal’s most iconic tracks. Bobby Koelble’s insight into the composition and technique will help you refine your alternative picking, palm muting, and power chord transitions. It's a challenging yet rewarding song to master for any metal guitarist. If you’re an advanced player or an intermediate player looking for songs to improve your techniques, this song has to be in your repertoire.
Tips to Improve Your Playing
- Start by playing the riffs at a slower pace, then gradually increase your speed.
- Pay close attention to the vibrato and palm muting techniques to capture the song’s unique tone.
- Focus on smooth chord transitions during the solo to maintain the song’s flow.
FAQs – Symbolic Guitar Lesson
Q1. Is this song suitable for beginners?
Ans: This lesson is recommended for intermediate to advanced players due to its fast-paced riffs and complex solos.
Q2. What tuning is used for this song?
Ans: The song is played in standard tuning down a whole step.





























