Never Meant: American Football Tab - Easy Guitar Tutorial

by Jhon Lennon 58 views

Hey guys! Today, we're diving into an absolute classic that every guitarist should have in their repertoire: "Never Meant" by American Football. This song is like the holy grail of emo and indie rock, and learning it is a rite of passage. So, grab your guitar, tune it up, and let’s get started with this easy-to-follow guitar tutorial!

Why "Never Meant" is a Must-Learn

"Never Meant" isn't just a song; it's an experience. The intertwining guitar lines, the emotional depth, and the sheer simplicity of its beauty make it a timeless piece. Playing this song is not only impressive to your friends but also a fantastic exercise in fingerpicking and understanding chord progressions. Plus, it’s a great way to connect with a whole community of musicians who love and appreciate this iconic track. Whether you’re a beginner or an advanced player, there’s always something new to discover in its intricate yet accessible arrangement. This song has stood the test of time and continues to inspire generations of guitarists, solidifying its place as a cornerstone of indie and emo music.

The Enduring Appeal of American Football

American Football, the band behind "Never Meant," has had a massive impact on the music scene. Their self-titled debut album, released in 1999, has become a touchstone for emo and indie rock artists. The band's use of unconventional time signatures and intricate guitar work set them apart from their contemporaries, creating a sound that is both melancholic and captivating. Despite initially disbanding shortly after their debut, their influence continued to grow, leading to a reunion and subsequent albums that have been eagerly embraced by fans. The band's ability to evoke raw emotion through their music has resonated with listeners around the world, cementing their legacy as one of the most important and influential bands of their genre. Learning "Never Meant" is not just about mastering a song; it's about understanding and appreciating the artistry and innovation that American Football brought to the music world.

Tuning and Basic Chords

First things first, you’ll need to get your guitar properly tuned. "Never Meant" is played in standard tuning (EADGBe). Make sure each string is perfectly in tune, as this song relies heavily on the interplay between the different guitar parts. A good tuning app or a reliable tuner is your best friend here. Once you're tuned up, let's dive into the basic chords you'll need to know. The main chords are E minor (Em), C major (C), G major (G), and D major (D). These chords are the foundation of the song, so make sure you're comfortable transitioning between them smoothly. Practice these transitions until they become second nature, as this will make learning the rest of the song much easier. Remember, clean and accurate chord changes are essential for capturing the song's delicate and intricate sound. With a bit of practice, you'll have these chords down in no time and be well on your way to mastering "Never Meant."

Essential Chord Shapes

Let's break down those essential chord shapes to make sure you're set up for success.

  • E minor (Em): 022000 - This is a staple chord, easy to play and super versatile.
  • C major (C): x32010 - Another common chord. Make sure your fingers are arched to avoid muting any strings.
  • G major (G): 320003 - This one can be a bit tricky at first, but with practice, you'll get it down.
  • D major (D): xx0232 - A bright and cheerful chord that adds a lot to the song.

Intro Tab Breakdown

The intro of "Never Meant" is iconic. It's what everyone recognizes instantly. This section focuses on the fingerpicked arpeggios that define the song. The tab might look intimidating at first, but don't worry, we'll break it down step by step. The key is to focus on the individual notes and gradually build up the speed as you become more comfortable. Pay close attention to the string crossings and make sure each note rings out clearly. Start slowly and use a metronome to keep your timing consistent. With practice, you'll be able to play this intro smoothly and confidently. Remember, patience is key. This intro is a beautiful and intricate piece of music, and mastering it will not only impress your friends but also deepen your appreciation for the song's artistry.

Reading the Tab

Here’s a simplified version to get you started. Remember, tabs read from left to right, with each number representing the fret to be played on a specific string.

e|------------------------------------------------------------|
B|--------0-----------0-----------0-----------0---------------|
G|-----0-----0-----0-----0-----0-----0-----0-----0------------|
D|--2-----------2-----------2-----------2----------------------|
A|------------------------------------------------------------|
E|0-----------0-----------0-----------0----------------------|

This is just a snippet, but it gives you the idea. Focus on your fingerpicking technique. Use your thumb for the lower strings and your index, middle, and ring fingers for the higher strings. Consistency is key! Ensure each note rings out clearly and that your timing is consistent. Start slowly and gradually increase your speed as you become more comfortable. Remember, practice makes perfect, and with a little patience, you'll be able to play the intro of "Never Meant" with ease. The beauty of this intro lies in its simplicity and the emotion it conveys, so take your time and enjoy the process of learning it.

Verse and Chorus

The verse and chorus sections of "Never Meant" are where the fullness of the song really shines. The chords progress in a way that supports the emotional weight of the lyrics. In the verse, the guitar provides a melancholic backdrop, while in the chorus, the song opens up with a sense of yearning and release. Pay attention to the dynamics and how they change between these sections. The verse is often played more quietly, creating a sense of intimacy, while the chorus is played with more intensity, reflecting the song's emotional climax. Strumming patterns also play a crucial role in differentiating these sections. Experiment with different strumming patterns to find what works best for you and captures the song's overall feel. By understanding the nuances of the verse and chorus, you'll be able to play "Never Meant" with greater depth and expression.

Chord Progression

The main chord progression for the verse and chorus is:

Em - C - G - D

This progression repeats throughout the song. Try different strumming patterns to find what sounds best to you. A simple down-down-up-down-up pattern works well. Focus on keeping a steady rhythm and transitioning smoothly between the chords. The key to mastering this progression is repetition. Practice it until it becomes second nature, and you'll be able to play along with the song effortlessly. Remember, the beauty of "Never Meant" lies in its simplicity, so don't overcomplicate things. Just focus on playing the chords accurately and with feeling, and you'll be well on your way to capturing the essence of this iconic song.

Putting It All Together

Okay, you’ve got the intro, the chords, and the strumming patterns down. Now it’s time to put it all together! Start by playing along with the original recording. This will help you get a feel for the timing and dynamics of the song. Pay attention to how the different parts fit together and try to emulate the original performance as closely as possible. Don't be discouraged if it takes a few tries to get it right. Learning a new song takes time and practice. Break the song down into smaller sections and work on each section individually before putting them all together. Use a metronome to keep your timing consistent and focus on playing the chords accurately. With a little patience and perseverance, you'll be able to play "Never Meant" from beginning to end and impress your friends with your guitar skills.

Tips for Mastery

  • Practice Slowly: Speed comes with time.
  • Use a Metronome: Timing is everything.
  • Listen Actively: Pay attention to the nuances of the original recording.
  • Record Yourself: This helps you identify areas for improvement.
  • Don't Give Up: Keep practicing, and you'll get there!

Final Thoughts

"Never Meant" is more than just a song; it's a piece of musical history. By learning this song, you're not only improving your guitar skills but also connecting with a community of musicians who share a love for this iconic track. So keep practicing, keep learning, and most importantly, keep enjoying the process. And that's it for today, keep strumming and I will see you next time!