Understanding the Song
Background of "Breaking the Law"
"Breaking the Law" was released in 1980 as part of Judas Priest's album British Steel. The song is notable for its driving rhythm and memorable guitar riffs, which have made it a fan favorite and a defining track of the heavy metal genre. The lyrics reflect themes of rebellion and frustration, resonating with many who feel constrained by societal norms.
- Album: British Steel
- Release Year: 1980
- Genre: Heavy Metal
- Key Themes: Rebellion, frustration, freedom
Cultural Impact
The impact of "Breaking the Law" extends beyond its musical composition. It has been featured in numerous films, TV shows, and video games, further solidifying its place in popular culture. The song's themes have inspired countless cover versions and adaptations, making it a timeless anthem for those who identify with its message.
- Movies: Featured in various films, often during pivotal scenes of rebellion.
- TV Shows: Used in multiple series to underscore themes of defiance.
- Video Games: Included in soundtracks of games that embrace heavy metal culture.
The Guitar Tab Breakdown
Introduction to Guitar Tabs
Before diving into the specific guitar tab for "Breaking the Law," it’s essential to understand what guitar tabs are. Guitar tablature (or "tabs") is a form of musical notation that shows you where to place your fingers on the guitar fretboard. Each line represents a string on the guitar, while numbers indicate which fret to press down.
- Lines: Represent the six strings of the guitar (from high E to low E).
- Numbers: Indicate the frets to play on each string.
- Techniques: May include symbols for bends, slides, and other guitar techniques.
Breaking Down the Main Riff
One of the most recognizable aspects of "Breaking the Law" is its main riff. This riff captures the essence of the song and is a great starting point for guitarists looking to learn it. Below is a simplified version of the main riff tab.
```
e|-------------------------|
B|-------------------------|
G|-------------------------|
D|-------2-2-------5-5----|
A|---2-2-----2-2-2-----5-5|
E|-0---------0-----------|
```
- Tips for Playing the Riff:
- Practice slowly at first to ensure you’re hitting the right notes.
- Use palm muting for a tighter sound.
- Pay attention to the rhythm and feel of the riff.
Chorus and Additional Sections
The chorus of "Breaking the Law" introduces a powerful chord progression that complements the main riff. Here’s a tab for the chorus section:
```
e|-------------------------|
B|-------------------------|
G|---7---7---5-5---4-4----|
D|---7---7---5-5---4-4----|
A|---5---5---3-3---2-2----|
E|-------------------------|
```
- Chord Progression:
- The chorus uses power chords primarily, which are common in rock music.
- Practice transitioning smoothly between the chords to maintain the song's energy.
Techniques to Master the Song
Essential Techniques
To effectively play "Breaking the Law," you’ll need to incorporate a few essential guitar techniques. Here’s a list of techniques to focus on:
1. Palm Muting: This technique involves resting the edge of your picking hand on the strings near the bridge to create a muted sound.
2. Power Chords: Familiarize yourself with playing power chords, which are a staple in rock music.
3. Bending: While not heavily featured in the main riff, bending notes can add expressiveness to your playing.
Practice Tips
Here are some tips to help you practice "Breaking the Law" effectively:
- Use a Metronome: Start slow and gradually increase the tempo as you become more comfortable with the song.
- Break It Down: Focus on small sections of the song at a time, rather than trying to tackle it all at once.
- Record Yourself: Listening back can help you identify areas for improvement.
Learning Resources
Online Tutorials
Numerous online resources can help you learn "Breaking the Law." YouTube is a treasure trove of video tutorials that break down the song step by step. Some popular channels include:
- JustinGuitar: Offers comprehensive lessons for beginners to advanced players.
- GuitarLessons.com: Provides detailed breakdowns of popular songs.
Backing Tracks
Playing along with backing tracks can significantly enhance your learning experience. Websites like YouTube and various music streaming platforms offer backing tracks for "Breaking the Law," allowing you to practice the song with a full band sound.
- YouTube: Search for "Breaking the Law backing track" for various versions.
- JamTracks: Many music apps offer customizable backing tracks.
Conclusion
In conclusion, mastering the breaking the law guitar tab is a rewarding endeavor for any guitarist. The song's catchy riffs and powerful message have made it a classic in the heavy metal genre. By understanding the song’s background, breaking down its components, and applying effective practice techniques, you will not only improve your guitar skills but also gain a deeper appreciation for Judas Priest's contribution to rock music. Whether you play it for yourself or share it with friends, "Breaking the Law" is sure to impress and inspire. Happy playing!
Frequently Asked Questions
What are some popular guitar tabs for 'Breaking the Law' by Judas Priest?
You can find popular guitar tabs for 'Breaking the Law' on various tab websites like Ultimate Guitar and Songsterr, which often feature user-contributed tabs and ratings.
Is 'Breaking the Law' easy to play on guitar for beginners?
'Breaking the Law' is considered relatively easy for beginners due to its simple power chords and straightforward rhythm, making it a great choice for new guitarists.
What tuning is used for 'Breaking the Law' on guitar?
'Breaking the Law' is typically played in standard tuning (E A D G B e), which is common for most rock songs.
Are there any notable covers of 'Breaking the Law' that feature unique guitar riffs?
Yes, several artists have covered 'Breaking the Law' with their own twists, such as Machine Head and the band Fight, incorporating unique guitar riffs and styles.
Can I find a video tutorial for 'Breaking the Law' guitar tab?
Yes, there are many video tutorials available on platforms like YouTube that guide you through playing 'Breaking the Law' with tabs shown on screen.
What gear is recommended for playing 'Breaking the Law' on electric guitar?
To achieve the classic sound of 'Breaking the Law', a solid-state amp, distortion pedal, and a guitar with humbucker pickups are recommended.
Are there any common mistakes to avoid when playing 'Breaking the Law'?
Common mistakes include rushing the tempo and not clearly defining the power chords. Practicing slowly and focusing on timing can help.
Where can I find a PDF of the 'Breaking the Law' guitar tab?
You can find PDFs of 'Breaking the Law' guitar tabs on music sheet websites like MusicNotes or by searching for guitar tab resources that offer downloadable formats.
