Unlocking the Secrets: How to Play “Never Going Back Again”
If you’re a fan of classic rock, then you’ve undoubtedly heard Fleetwood Mac’s iconic song, “Never Going Back Again.” This beautifully crafted piece showcases the intricate fingerstyle techniques that make it a favorite among guitarists and music lovers alike. In this comprehensive guitar tutorial, we will break down the essential components of this song, helping you master its unique sound and techniques. Whether you’re an experienced player or a beginner eager to learn, this guide will provide you with all the tools you need to play “Never Going Back Again” on guitar.
Understanding the Song
“Never Going Back Again” is featured on Fleetwood Mac’s critically acclaimed album, Rumours, released in 1977. The song, performed by Lindsey Buckingham, is notable for its intricate fingerstyle guitar work, which creates a flowing, melodic sound that complements the heartfelt lyrics. The song is often regarded as a hallmark of classic rock, making it a must-learn for any aspiring guitarist.
Essential Guitar Techniques
Before diving into the actual tutorial, it’s important to familiarize yourself with some essential music techniques that will enhance your playthrough of “Never Going Back Again.” Here are the key techniques to focus on:
- Fingerstyle: This technique involves plucking the strings with your fingers instead of using a pick. It allows for greater control and a more nuanced sound.
- Travis Picking: A common fingerstyle technique where the thumb plays a steady bass line while the fingers play melody notes.
- Pull-offs and Hammer-ons: These techniques involve playing notes smoothly and fluidly, creating a more dynamic and expressive sound.
Step-by-Step Guitar Tutorial for “Never Going Back Again”
Now that you have a grasp of the essential techniques, let’s break down the song into manageable sections. Follow this step-by-step guitar tutorial to learn “Never Going Back Again” effectively.
Introduction and Chords
The song begins with a series of open chords and fingerstyle picking. Here are the primary chords you will need:
- G
- Cadd9
- Em7
- D/F#
To start, practice transitioning between these chords smoothly. Use your thumb to play the bass notes while your fingers pluck the higher strings.
Opening Riff
The opening riff is one of the most recognizable parts of “Never Going Back Again.” Here’s how to play it:
e|-------0--------0--------0--------0-------|B|-----3---3----3---3----3---3----3---3-----|G|---0-------0--------0--------0-------0---|D|-------------------------------------------|A|-------------------------------------------|E|-------------------------------------------|Practice this slowly at first, ensuring that each note rings out clearly. Gradually increase your speed as you become more comfortable.
Verse Progression
As you move into the verses, the chord progression follows a similar pattern. Here’s a breakdown:
G Cadd9e|-------0--------3--------|B|-----3---3----3---3------|G|---0-------0--------0----|D|-------------------------|A|-------------------------|E|-------------------------|Continue to incorporate fingerstyle techniques by alternating between bass notes and melody. This will help maintain the song’s flowing feel.
Chorus Section
The chorus introduces a slight variation in the chord progression. Here’s how to approach it:
Em7 D/F# Ge|-------0--------2--------0-------|B|-----3---3----3---3----3---3-----|G|---0-------2--------0-------0---|D|----------------------------------|A|----------------------------------|E|----------------------------------|Repeat this progression several times, focusing on your timing and dynamics. This section is where you can really let your personality shine through your playing.
Bridge and Outro
As we approach the bridge, the dynamics of the song build. Here’s how to play the bridge:
Cadd9 G Em7 D/F#e|-------3--------0--------0--------2-------|B|-----3---3----3---3----3---3----3---3-----|G|---0-------0--------0--------2-------0---|D|-------------------------------------------|A|-------------------------------------------|E|-------------------------------------------|Practice this section slowly, emphasizing the transitions between chords. The bridge serves as a great opportunity to experiment with dynamics, adding in more volume and intensity.
Final Thoughts on the Tutorial
Now that you’ve learned the core sections of “Never Going Back Again,” it’s time to put everything together. Start playing through the entire song, focusing on maintaining a steady tempo and smooth transitions. Remember, practice is key.
Troubleshooting Tips
As you practice, you may encounter some challenges. Here are some troubleshooting tips to help you overcome them:
- Difficulty with Fingerstyle: If you’re struggling with fingerstyle, try practicing your plucking technique separately. Focus on using your thumb for bass notes and your index and middle fingers for melody.
- Chord Transitions: If you’re having trouble transitioning between chords, slow down your practice and isolate the transitions. Gradually increase your speed as you gain confidence.
- Timing Issues: Use a metronome to help keep your timing consistent. Start slow and gradually increase the tempo as you become more comfortable with the song.
Conclusion
Playing “Never Going Back Again” on guitar is a rewarding experience that showcases the beauty of fingerstyle techniques in classic rock music. By following this guitar tutorial, practicing diligently, and addressing any challenges you face, you’ll be well on your way to mastering this timeless piece. Remember, the journey of learning guitar is just as important as the destination, so enjoy every moment of it!
For further guitar lessons and tutorials, check out our guitar resources. And for more about Fleetwood Mac and their iconic music, visit their official site for the latest updates and news.
Happy playing, and never stop exploring the wonderful world of music!
This article is in the category Theory and created by MusicProTips Team