How To Play Mission Impossible On Guitar

Okay, so you want to learn the Mission: Impossible theme on guitar? That iconic "duh-duh-duh, duh-duh-duh" that instantly screams espionage and Tom Cruise dangling from things? You've come to the right place. Let's turn you into your own personal Lalo Schifrin (the composer) – or at least someone who can impress their friends at parties.

The Easiest Mission Ever (Probably)

Forget climbing skyscrapers or decoding cryptic messages. This is way easier. We're going to focus on a simplified version that captures the essence. Think of it as Mission: Somewhat Possible – but totally achievable!

The Secret Weapon: E Minor Pentatonic

The Mission: Impossible theme dances around a scale called the E minor pentatonic. Don't let the fancy name scare you. It's basically a set of notes that sound cool together, even if you mess up a little.

Imagine the sixth string of your guitar (the thickest one) is an E. Now, picture tiny little spies tiptoeing on the frets. These little spies will be on the 0th, 3rd, 5th, 7th, and 10th frets. These are your notes. Master this and you can create all kind of cool riffs.

Duh-Duh-Duh...Guitar Style

Now for the fun part. The most recognizable part of the theme is the repeating rhythmic figure: "duh-duh-duh, duh-duh-duh." We're going to translate that to guitar notes. These little spies will be on the 0th, 3rd, and 5th frets. These are your notes.

Play the E string open (0th fret). Then, play the same string at the 3rd fret. Finally, reach to the 5th fret on the same string. Repeat that twice. You've officially entered IMF territory. Ethan Hunt would be proud.

Adding a Little Spy Drama

To add some flair, try sliding from the 3rd fret to the 5th fret. It creates a cool, almost anxious sound. Perfect for when you're trying to disarm a bomb with one second left.

Another trick is to add a bend to the note at the 5th fret. Gently push the string up, making the note sound a little higher. This adds a touch of suspense. It's like you're just barely escaping the bad guys.

The Importance of Rhythm (or: How to Not Sound Like a Mess)

The rhythm is key. Keep those "duh-duh-duhs" consistent. Use a metronome or drum beat, if you have one. Pretend you are **Lalo Schifrin** himself conducting a full orchestra.

Imagine Ethan Hunt running. It's urgent but precise. Keep the same tempo and pace, and that's it.

Jamming Like a Secret Agent

Once you have the basic "duh-duh-duh" down, experiment. Use the E minor pentatonic scale to create your own spy-themed licks and riffs. Maybe throw in some palm muting for a more aggressive sound. Maybe slide between notes. Your mission, should you choose to accept it, is to make it your own.

Record yourself playing and listen back. Were you in time? Did you use the right notes? If yes, then congratulations! If not, repeat! That's the mission.

The Unexpected Twist: Playing It For Laughs

Don't be afraid to have fun with it. The Mission: Impossible theme, when played on a ukulele with goofy facial expressions, is comedy gold. Imagine playing it on a kazoo.

The point is, music is about enjoyment. So, grab your guitar, embrace your inner secret agent (or your inner comedian), and start playing. Who knows, you might just become the next guitar hero of espionage themes! Now go practice your guitar and be awesome!