Hey guitar enthusiasts! Ready to dive into the electrifying riffs of Tesla? Today, we’re breaking down their iconic hit, 'What You Give.' This track is a fantastic blend of bluesy undertones and hard rock energy, perfect for intermediate players looking to expand their repertoire. So, grab your axe, tune up, and let’s get started!

Understanding the Song Structure

Before we shred, let's understand the song's structure. 'What You Give' typically follows a verse-chorus structure with a bridge and a guitar solo. Knowing this helps you anticipate the changes and nail the transitions. The song kicks off with a memorable intro riff that sets the tone for the entire track.

Intro Riff

The intro riff is built around power chords and some nifty finger work. Start with a solid E5 power chord (E-5-7 on the A string). Then, slide up to an F#5 power chord (F#-7-9 on the A string). The magic lies in the rhythm – it’s not just straight eighth notes. You'll want to listen closely to the original recording to get the timing right. Pay attention to the subtle nuances and accents that give the riff its signature feel.

Next, there's a cool little lick that follows. This involves some bending on the B string. Aim for a full-step bend to really make it sing. Practice this slowly at first to ensure your intonation is spot on. Gradually increase the speed as you become more comfortable. Remember, clean bends are crucial for capturing the essence of the riff.

Verse

The verse calms things down a bit, focusing on rhythm guitar with some chord variations. The chords are mostly open position chords. Think A, D, and E. The key here is to keep a steady rhythm and focus on your strumming technique. Experiment with different strumming patterns to find what works best for you. Adding a slight palm mute can give the verse a more subdued, controlled feel.

Notice how the guitar work complements Jeff Keith's vocals. The guitar doesn't overpower the vocals but rather supports them, creating a cohesive sound. Listen carefully to how the dynamics change throughout the verse, and try to emulate that in your own playing.

Chorus

The chorus is where the energy picks up. It's a full-on rock anthem with bigger, bolder chords. Power chords are your best friend here. Focus on delivering each chord with maximum impact. Strive for a full, resonant sound that cuts through the mix. You'll want to emphasize the downstrokes to create a powerful, driving rhythm.

Don't be afraid to dig in and really attack the strings. The chorus is your chance to unleash your inner rock god! Pay attention to the transitions between the chorus and the verse. These transitions are crucial for maintaining the song's flow and momentum.

Bridge

The bridge offers a change of pace, often featuring arpeggiated chords or a melodic line. In 'What You Give,' the bridge provides a moment of introspection before building back up to the final chorus. The guitar work becomes more intricate and nuanced, requiring a lighter touch and greater precision.

Consider incorporating some fingerpicking techniques to add depth and texture to your playing. Experiment with different voicings and inversions of the chords to create a richer harmonic landscape. The bridge is an opportunity to showcase your musicality and versatility.

Guitar Solo

Now, for the main event – the guitar solo! Tesla's guitar solos are known for their blend of technical skill and melodic sensibility. Frank Hannon’s solo in 'What You Give' is no exception. It’s packed with fast licks, bluesy bends, and soaring high notes. Start by learning the basic structure of the solo. Break it down into smaller, manageable phrases.

Practice each phrase slowly and deliberately, focusing on accuracy and articulation. Use a metronome to gradually increase your speed. Pay attention to the phrasing and dynamics of the solo. Notice how Hannon uses bends, slides, and vibrato to add expression and emotion to his playing.

Transcribing the solo can be incredibly helpful. Write out the notes and tabs, and analyze the underlying scales and modes. This will give you a deeper understanding of the solo's construction and allow you to incorporate similar ideas into your own playing.

Key Techniques to Master

To really nail 'What You Give,' there are a few key techniques you'll want to focus on. These include power chords, bending, vibrato, and rhythm playing. Let's break them down.

Power Chords

Power chords are the bread and butter of rock guitar. They provide a solid foundation for riffs and rhythm playing. Practice your power chord transitions, focusing on smooth, seamless changes. Experiment with different voicings and inversions to add variety to your playing. You can also try adding some palm muting to create a more aggressive, percussive sound.

Bending

Bending is essential for adding emotion and expression to your playing. Work on your bending accuracy, aiming for consistent, controlled bends. Practice bending to different intervals, such as whole steps, half steps, and quarter steps. Use your ears to guide you, and strive for perfect intonation. There are many resources online that can help you improve your bending technique, including video tutorials and ear-training exercises.

Vibrato

Vibrato is another crucial technique for adding character to your playing. Experiment with different types of vibrato, such as finger vibrato and wrist vibrato. Find what feels most natural and comfortable for you. Pay attention to the speed and width of your vibrato, and adjust it to suit the musical context. A subtle vibrato can add warmth and richness to your tone, while a more exaggerated vibrato can create a dramatic, emotive effect.

Rhythm Playing

Rhythm playing is often overlooked, but it's just as important as lead playing. A solid rhythm guitarist provides the foundation for the entire band. Work on your strumming technique, focusing on consistency and accuracy. Practice playing with a metronome to develop your timing and groove. Listen to your favorite rhythm guitarists and analyze their playing styles. Pay attention to their chord voicings, strumming patterns, and dynamics. With practice and dedication, you can become a master of rhythm guitar.

Gear and Tone

To get that authentic Tesla sound, you'll want to consider your gear and tone. Frank Hannon is known for using Les Paul guitars and Marshall amplifiers. However, you can get close with a variety of guitars and amps. The key is to focus on a warm, crunchy tone with plenty of sustain.

A good starting point is a humbucker-equipped guitar and a tube amplifier. Experiment with different overdrive and distortion pedals to find the sweet spot. Don't be afraid to tweak the EQ settings on your amp to get the desired tone. A touch of reverb can also add depth and dimension to your sound. Ultimately, the best gear is what sounds good to you and inspires you to play.

Practice Tips

• Start Slow: Always begin practicing at a slow tempo to ensure accuracy. Speed comes with time and repetition.
• Use a Metronome: A metronome is your best friend for developing solid timing.
• Break It Down: Divide the song into smaller sections and master each one before putting them together.
• Record Yourself: Recording your playing can help you identify areas for improvement.
• Listen Actively: Listen to the original recording frequently to internalize the nuances of the song.

Final Thoughts

'What You Give' is a fantastic song to add to your guitar repertoire. With dedication and practice, you'll be shredding those Tesla riffs in no time. Remember to focus on the key techniques, dial in your tone, and most importantly, have fun! Keep rocking, guys, and I'll see you in the next lesson!