Sweet Emotion - Aerosmith Guitar Tab Guide
Introduction
Welcome to this comprehensive guitar tab and instructional guide for Aerosmith's classic rock hit "Sweet Emotion". This guide will break down the song into its key sections, providing accurate tablature, playing techniques, and musical insights to help both beginners and intermediate players master this iconic track.
Song Structure
The song follows this general structure:
1. Intro
2. Verse 1
3. Chorus
4. Verse 2
5. Chorus
6. Bridge/Solo
7. Verse 3
8. Chorus
9. Outro
Tuning and Key
The song is in standard tuning (E A D G B E) and is played in the key of E major.
Section 1: Intro
The intro features the iconic talk box effect on the bass line. While this is typically played on bass, guitarists often incorporate it into their performances. Here's how to play it on guitar:
E|----------------------------------|
B|----------------------------------|
G|----------------------------------|
D|----------------------------------|
A|--2--2--4--4--2--2--0--0----------|
E|----------------------------------|
Playing Technique: Use your index finger to play the notes on the A string. Apply slight palm muting to achieve a punchier sound. Repeat this pattern throughout the intro.
Talk Box Effect: To replicate the talk box effect without the actual device, try using a wah pedal in conjunction with an overdrive pedal. Rock the wah pedal slowly as you play the riff to approximate the vocal-like quality of the original.
Section 2: Verse
The verse uses a simple, driving rhythm guitar part based on power chords:
E|----------------------------------|
B|----------------------------------|
G|----------------------------------|
D|--2--2--2--2--4--4--4--4----------|
A|--2--2--2--2--4--4--4--4----------|
E|--0--0--0--0--2--2--2--2----------|
Playing Technique: Use downstrokes for a heavier sound. Palm mute slightly to keep the rhythm tight and punchy. The rhythm follows a steady eighth-note pattern.
Chord Progression: The verse alternates between E5 and F#5 power chords, creating a simple yet effective groove.
Section 3: Chorus
The chorus introduces more open chords and a slightly more complex rhythm:
E|--0-----0-----0-----0-----2-----2--|
B|--0-----0-----0-----0-----3-----3--|
G|--1-----1-----1-----1-----2-----2--|
D|--2-----2-----2-----2-----0-----0--|
A|--2-----2-----2-----2--------------|
E|--0-----0-----0-----0-----2-----2--|
E E E E B B
Playing Technique: Strum these chords with a mix of downstrokes and upstrokes. The rhythm is more syncopated here, with emphasis on the off-beats.
Chord Progression: The chorus primarily uses E and B chords, creating a I-V progression in the key of E major.
Section 4: Bridge/Solo
The bridge features a memorable guitar solo. Here's a simplified version of the main lick:
E|----------------------------------|
B|----------------------------------|
G|--9b---7---9r-7------------------| (bend 9 up a whole step)
D|----------------9-7--------------|
A|------------------9-7------------|
E|----------------------9-7-9-7----|
Playing Technique: Use your ring finger for the bend on the 9th fret of the G string. Pull off to the 7th fret, then slide down to the lower strings. Use hammer-ons and pull-offs for the descending lick on the low E string.
Solo Tips: The full solo expands on this lick, incorporating more bends, slides, and vibrato. Focus on nailing the timing and feel of the main lick before attempting the full solo.
Section 5: Outro
The outro returns to the intro riff, gradually fading out:
E|----------------------------------|
B|----------------------------------|
G|----------------------------------|
D|----------------------------------|
A|--2--2--4--4--2--2--0--0----------|
E|----------------------------------|
Playing Technique: Play this riff with gradually decreasing volume to mimic the fade-out effect of the recording.
Musical Theory Insights
1. The song is primarily built around the E blues scale (E G A A# B D), particularly evident in the solo sections.
2. The verse's alternating E5 and F#5 power chords create tension and release, driving the song forward.
3. The chorus's use of full E and B chords provides contrast to the stripped-down verse, adding harmonic richness.
4. The talk box effect in the intro demonstrates innovative use of technology in rock music, blurring the lines between instruments and vocals.
Practice Tips
- Start by mastering the intro riff at a slow tempo, gradually increasing speed as you become comfortable.
- Practice transitioning between verse and chorus sections smoothly, paying attention to changes in rhythm and chord voicings.
- Work on your bending technique for the solo, ensuring you can consistently hit the correct pitch.
- Use a metronome to maintain steady tempo, especially during the more rhythmically complex sections.
- Experiment with different effects pedals to recreate the song's iconic tones, particularly for the intro and solo sections.
Conclusion
"Sweet Emotion" is a masterclass in rock guitar, combining memorable riffs, powerful chord progressions, and expressive soloing. By breaking down the song into these component parts and practicing each section diligently, you'll be well on your way to mastering this Aerosmith classic. Remember to focus not just on playing the right notes, but also on capturing the feel and groove that make this song a timeless rock anthem.