How to Play “Brass Monkey” on Guitar
Playing “Brass Monkey” by The Beastie Boys on guitar can be a fun and rewarding experience for both beginners and experienced guitarists. This iconic song, released in 1989, features a catchy riff that has become synonymous with the band’s punk rock style. In this article, we will guide you through the process of learning how to play “Brass Monkey” on guitar, covering the necessary chords, strumming patterns, and tips to help you master this classic tune.
Understanding the Song Structure
Before diving into the guitar tabs and chords, it’s important to understand the structure of “Brass Monkey.” The song consists of a verse, a pre-chorus, a chorus, and a bridge. The verse and pre-chorus are played in a similar pattern, while the chorus and bridge have their own distinct riffs. Familiarizing yourself with the song’s structure will help you practice more effectively and ensure a smooth performance.
Chords and Strumming Patterns
The guitar parts in “Brass Monkey” are primarily played using power chords, which are simple to learn and perfect for this song’s punk rock vibe. Here are the chords you’ll need to know:
– E Major
– G Major
– A Major
– B Major
To play these chords, position your fingers as follows:
– E Major: Place your first finger on the second fret of the low E string, your second finger on the second fret of the A string, and your third finger on the second fret of the D string. The G string should be open.
– G Major: Move your first finger to the second fret of the low E string, your second finger to the third fret of the A string, and your third finger to the third fret of the D string. The G string should be open.
– A Major: Move your first finger to the second fret of the low E string, your second finger to the second fret of the A string, and your third finger to the second fret of the D string. The G string should be open.
– B Major: Place your first finger on the second fret of the low E string, your second finger on the second fret of the A string, and your third finger on the second fret of the D string. The G string should be open.
For strumming patterns, you’ll want to use a downstroke on the downbeats and an upstroke on the upbeats. This will give the song a driving, upbeat feel.
Playing the Riff
The signature riff in “Brass Monkey” is played using a power chord progression, starting with E Major, followed by G Major, A Major, and B Major. To play this riff, strum each chord in the progression on the downbeats, keeping a consistent tempo. Remember to mute the unused strings to maintain a clean sound.
Practicing and Tips
To master “Brass Monkey,” practice regularly and focus on the following tips:
– Use a metronome to maintain a consistent tempo.
– Pay attention to the rhythm and strumming patterns.
– Practice the riff slowly at first, focusing on accuracy and timing.
– Gradually increase the speed as you become more comfortable with the riff.
– Listen to the original song to get a feel for the dynamics and nuances of the performance.
With persistence and practice, you’ll be able to play “Brass Monkey” on guitar like a pro in no time. Enjoy the process and have fun rocking out to this classic Beastie Boys tune!
