Unlock the Secrets: How to Play “Wanted Dead or Alive” on Guitar

Unlock the Secrets: How to Play “Wanted Dead or Alive” on Guitar

“Wanted Dead or Alive,” a classic rock anthem by Jon Bon Jovi, has captivated audiences since its release in 1986. Its unique sound and catchy melodies make it a favorite among guitar enthusiasts. In this comprehensive guitar tutorial, we will explore everything you need to know to master this iconic song, from guitar tabs and techniques to strumming patterns and acoustic arrangements. Whether you’re a beginner or an experienced player, this guide will help you unlock the secrets to playing “Wanted Dead or Alive.”

Understanding the Song

Before diving into the guitar tutorial, it’s essential to understand the structure and elements of “Wanted Dead or Alive.” The song features a distinct blend of acoustic and electric guitar, showcasing Jon Bon Jovi’s powerful vocals and rich storytelling.

• Artist: Jon Bon Jovi
• Album: Slippery When Wet
• Genre: Classic Rock
• Year Released: 1986

Required Equipment

To play “Wanted Dead or Alive,” you will need the following equipment:

• Acoustic or electric guitar
• Guitar tuner
• Capo (optional for certain arrangements)
• Guitar picks of your choice
• Guitar tabs or sheet music

Getting Started with Guitar Tabs

Understanding guitar tabs is crucial for learning “Wanted Dead or Alive.” Guitar tabs provide a simple way to read music, showing you where to place your fingers on the fretboard. Here’s a brief overview of how to read guitar tabs:

Each line represents a string on the guitar, with the bottom line being the lowest string (E) and the top line being the highest (e). Numbers indicate which fret to press down. For example:

e|---0---2---3---2---0---|B|-----------------------|G|-----------------------|D|-----------------------|A|-----------------------|E|-----------------------|

Following the tabs, you can learn the iconic riffs and chord progressions that make up the song.

Chords Used in “Wanted Dead or Alive”

The primary chords in “Wanted Dead or Alive” include:

• Am (A minor)
• C (C major)
• G (G major)
• D (D major)

These chords create the harmonic foundation of the song. Familiarizing yourself with these chords will help you play along with the track.

Step-by-Step Guitar Tutorial

Now that you understand the basics, let’s break down how to play “Wanted Dead or Alive” step by step.

Step 1: Tuning Your Guitar

Ensure your guitar is in standard tuning (E A D G B e). Use a guitar tuner to get each string perfectly tuned. Proper tuning is crucial for achieving the correct sound.

Step 2: Learning the Intro Riff

The intro riff is one of the most recognizable parts of the song. Here’s how to play it:

e|-------------------|-------------------|B|-------------------|-------------------|G|-----2---2---0-----|-----2---2---0-----|D|---2---2---2---2---|---2---2---2---2---|A|-0---------------0-|-------------------|E|-------------------|-3---3---2---0-----|

Practice this riff slowly, focusing on clean notes. Gradually increase your speed as you become more comfortable.

Step 3: Strumming Patterns

The strumming pattern in “Wanted Dead or Alive” is essential to match the song’s rhythm. Here’s a simple strumming pattern you can use:

D-DU-UDU (D = downstroke, U = upstroke)

Practice this pattern while alternating between the chords Am, C, G, and D. This will help you get a feel for the song’s groove.

Step 4: Verse and Chorus Progressions

The chord progressions for the verses and choruses are consistent throughout the song. Here’s a breakdown:

• Verse: Am – C – G – D
• Chorus: C – G – Am – D

Practice transitioning between these chords smoothly while maintaining the strumming pattern. This will help you build muscle memory.

Step 5: Adding Dynamics

To make your performance more engaging, consider adding dynamics. This means varying your strumming intensity throughout the song. For example:

• Play softly during the verses.
• Increase volume and intensity during the chorus.

Experiment with this to add emotional depth to your playing.

Acoustic Arrangement

If you prefer an acoustic arrangement of “Wanted Dead or Alive,” you can modify the chords and strumming pattern slightly. Use fingerpicking for a softer sound:

e|---0---2---3---2---0---|B|-----------------------|G|-----2---0---0---2-----|D|---2---2---0---0---2---|A|-0---------------2---0---|E|-----------------------|

Fingerpicking allows for a more intimate interpretation of the song, making it ideal for solo performances.

Troubleshooting Tips

As you learn to play “Wanted Dead or Alive,” you may encounter some challenges. Here are some troubleshooting tips:

• Fretting Issues: If notes sound muted, check your finger placement on the frets. Ensure your fingers are pressing down firmly and not accidentally touching adjacent strings.
• Strumming Consistency: If your strumming feels uneven, practice slowly at first. Gradually increase your speed as you develop confidence.
• Chord Transitions: If you struggle with switching chords, practice each transition slowly. Work on one transition at a time until you feel comfortable.

Enhancing Your Skills with Music Lessons

If you’re looking to further enhance your guitar skills, consider taking music lessons. A qualified instructor can provide personalized feedback and guidance tailored to your playing style. Online resources are also available, offering video tutorials and interactive lessons.

For more guitar lessons and resources, check out GuitarLessons.com.

Conclusion

Mastering “Wanted Dead or Alive” on guitar is a rewarding experience that can enhance your playing skills and deepen your appreciation for classic rock. By following this guitar tutorial, practicing the chords, riffs, and strumming patterns, you’ll be well on your way to delivering a powerful performance.

Remember, practice is key. Don’t hesitate to revisit sections of this guide as you progress. Whether you’re playing for friends, family, or yourself, the joy of performing “Wanted Dead or Alive” will resonate with you and your audience alike.

Now grab your guitar, turn up the volume, and let the music take you away!

This article is in the category Theory and created by MusicProTips Team