How To Play What You Give By Tesla

So, you want to learn "What You Give" by Tesla, huh? Excellent choice! Prepare for a journey that’s less about shredding and more about grooving. Think of it as the musical equivalent of making a really good cup of coffee – satisfying and surprisingly easy once you know the steps.

Tuning In: Not as Scary as It Sounds

First things first, the tuning. This isn’t your standard E-A-D-G-B-e scenario. Instead, you're dipping into the mystical world of drop D tuning. Basically, you lower your low E string down to a D. Boom! You're halfway there.

Why drop D? Well, it gives the song that extra oomph, that deeper rumble that makes your chest vibrate (in a good way, of course). It's like adding an extra shot of espresso to your musical latte.

The Main Riff: Where the Magic Happens

The main riff is the heart and soul of “What You Give.” It’s the earworm that burrows its way into your brain and refuses to leave. Don't worry, it's a friendly earworm.

It's built around power chords, which are like the superhero of guitar chords – simple, strong, and effective. Think two or three fingers doing all the heavy lifting. Jeff Keith’s vocals glide effortlessly on top of this bedrock, making it a timeless gem.

Breaking Down the Riff: Finger Placement Fun

Picture this: your index finger is camped out on the 5th fret of the low D string. Then, your ring finger and pinky cozy up on the 7th fret of the G and high D strings, respectively. Bam! Power chord achieved.

Slide that shape up and down the neck, and you've got the basic idea. Remember, it's more about feel than perfection. Let loose and enjoy the ride!

The Chorus: Let Your Voice Soar (Or At Least Hum)

The chorus is where you get to unleash your inner rock star (or at least your inner shower singer). It's catchy, anthemic, and begging to be sung along to.

Don't be afraid to belt it out! Even if you can't quite hit those high notes like Jeff Keith (and let's be honest, who can?), the spirit is what counts. It is all about the feeling.

The Solo: Channel Your Inner Frank Hannon

Ah, the guitar solo. This is where Frank Hannon really shines. Now, don't feel pressured to replicate every single note perfectly. The beauty of a solo is that it's a chance to express yourself.

Try learning the basic structure and then adding your own little flourishes. Think of it as a conversation between you and your guitar. What does it want to say?

The Secret Ingredient: The Groove

Ultimately, "What You Give" isn't about technical wizardry. It's about the groove. It's about that feeling that makes you want to tap your foot, nod your head, and maybe even do a little air guitar dance.

Listen closely to the interplay between the guitars, bass, and drums. Feel how they lock into a tight, infectious rhythm. That's the magic of Tesla.

Final Thoughts: Just Have Fun!

So, there you have it! A simplified, no-nonsense guide to playing "What You Give." Remember, it’s about enjoying the process, not achieving instant perfection. Embrace the imperfections, let your personality shine through, and most importantly, crank it up loud!

After all, isn't that what rock and roll is all about?