Break Stuff – Limp Bizkit
This note-for-note guitar lesson for “Break Stuff” by Limp Bizkit is designed to capture the raw aggression, groove-driven power, and percussive feel that define one of nu-metal’s most iconic tracks. Although the song is deceptively simple on the surface, the guitar work demands precision, control, and an understanding of rhythm that goes far beyond basic heavy riffing. This lesson breaks the track down in detail so you can replicate the tone, feel, and attitude of the original recording with confidence.
“Break Stuff” is built around tight, low-register riffs that lock in with the drums to create a crushing, almost hip-hop-influenced groove. In this lesson you’ll learn how to approach those riffs with the correct picking attack, muting control, and rhythmic placement so the guitar part feels heavy and intentional rather than loose or messy. Every section of the song is covered, from the main riffs and transitions to the subtle embellishments that add character and movement to the performance. Richard Shaw breaks down this classic track in this exclusive Lick Library video tutorial.
Rhythm Guitar and Groove Control
At the heart of “Break Stuff” is groove. The guitar part relies on strong right-hand control and precise timing to sit perfectly against the rhythm section. You’ll explore how consistent down-picked attacks, combined with controlled muting, create the punchy, stop-start feel that defines the song. The lesson focuses on how small rhythmic details—such as where notes are clipped or allowed to ring—can dramatically change the impact of a riff.
You’ll also learn how open strings are used to add weight and aggression to the riffs. These open-string ideas help create a sense of tension and release, while also giving the guitar part a wider, more explosive sound. Understanding how and when to let these strings ring is crucial to capturing the authentic feel of the track.
Palm Muting
Palm muting is one of the most important techniques in “Break Stuff,” and this lesson shows you how to use it effectively. By placing the picking hand at just the right point near the bridge, you’ll achieve the tight, percussive chug that drives the song forward. Learning to vary the pressure of the mute allows you to move seamlessly between aggressive, staccato rhythms and more open, ringing chords.
Mastering palm muting improves your overall rhythmic accuracy and dynamic control, making it an essential skill not only for nu-metal, but for heavy guitar styles in general.
Power Chords
The song is built almost entirely around power chords, but the way they are articulated makes all the difference. This lesson explains how to fret and strike power chords cleanly while maintaining consistent tone across the strings. You’ll also work on muting unwanted noise, especially when moving quickly between chord shapes.
Developing strong power-chord technique builds hand strength and coordination, giving you a solid foundation for countless rock and metal riffs beyond this track.
Syncopated Rhythms
One of the defining characteristics of “Break Stuff” is its use of syncopated rhythms. Rather than relying on straight, predictable patterns, the guitar part accents off-beats and unexpected rests. In this lesson, you’ll break down these rhythms slowly before bringing them up to tempo, ensuring that each accent hits with authority.
Understanding syncopation will greatly improve your groove, timing, and ability to lock in with a drummer—skills that are invaluable in any band setting.
The Guitarist and His Influence
The guitar work on “Break Stuff” is performed by Wes Borland, one of the most distinctive guitarists to emerge from the late-1990s metal scene. Borland’s approach was never about flashy solos or traditional lead playing; instead, he focused on texture, rhythm, and feel. His use of unusual chord shapes, heavy muting, and groove-based riffs helped redefine what heavy guitar could sound like at the time.
Borland’s influence can be heard across nu-metal and alternative metal, inspiring players to prioritise rhythm, tone, and attitude over technical excess. Learning “Break Stuff” provides valuable insight into this mindset and helps develop a more musical, groove-focused approach to heavy guitar.
Guitar Techniques Used in This Lesson
About The Tutor
Tutor Profile
Rich Shaw
Richard is most well known as the guitarist and co-songwriter for UK metal band, Cradle of Filth, from 2014 until 2022. In his time with the band, he co-wrote and performed on the albums ‘Hammer of the Witches’ (2015), ‘Cryptoriana - The Seductiveness of Decay’ (2017), and ‘Existence is Futile’...