"Fade To Black" by Metallica: Guitar Lesson

"Fade To Black" is an iconic track from Metallica's groundbreaking album 'Ride the Lightning'. A melancholic ballad at its core, it reveals the band's ability to convey intense emotions, all the while showcasing their instrumental prowess. From a guitarist's perspective, this track is a goldmine, filled with various techniques, scales, and progressions that make it a must-study. Sam Bell breaks down this true classic in this exclusive Lick Library video lesson.

Chords and Progressions

The song commences with an arpeggiated clean guitar intro, where the chords Am, C, G, Em, and D are prominently used. These chord progressions set the somber mood for the entire track. As the song progresses, it incorporates power chords, primarily the E5 and A5 power chords, giving the rhythm section its robust and heavy sound.

Guitar Scales

The solos and lead sections heavily rely on the A minor pentatonic scale, a common choice for rock guitarists due to its versatility and emotional depth. Some sections feature chromatic runs, which refer to the use of notes outside the standard scale, adding tension and release to the solos.

Guitar Solo Analysis

The lead guitarist of Metallica, Kirk Hammett, displays his virtuosic skills in the solos of "Fade To Black". The first solo, played over the clean arpeggiated section, is melodious and emotionally charged. He employs techniques like vibrato and slides to convey the song's melancholic mood.

The main solo towards the end is where Hammett truly shines. This solo transitions from a melodic beginning to a fast, aggressive climax. Techniques like alternate picking, legato, and double stop bends are used to build intensity. Hammett's use of pinched harmonics adds a sharp, squealing tone, giving the solo a dramatic flair.

Kirk Hammett's Playing

Kirk Hammett's style in "Fade To Black" is a testament to his adaptability. While he's known for his shredding capabilities, in this song, he displays a sensitive, emotional side. His note choices, phrasing, and dynamics transform the guitar into a voice, echoing the song's sentiments. His solos are not just technical showcases but are musical, serving the song's narrative and adding depth.

Techniques Employed in "Fade To Black"

As requested, here's a list of techniques used in the song, hyperlinked for your convenience:

• Vibrato
• Alternate Picking
• Legato
• Pinched Harmonics
• Double Stop Bends
• Slides
• Power Chords
• Chord Progressions
• Arpeggios

To conclude, "Fade To Black" is more than just a rock ballad. It is a musical journey, from its sorrowful beginnings to its intense, explosive solos. As guitarists, studying this song can provide insights into effective solo construction, emotive playing, and the importance of serving the song. Whether you're a budding guitarist or a seasoned player, delving into "Fade To Black" will undoubtedly enhance your musical vocabulary.