“Sad But True” by Metallica

Metallica’s “Sad But True” is one of the band’s heaviest and most recognisable tracks, boasting a down-tuned, riff-heavy sound that has become a hallmark of their early ‘90s style. At LickLibrary.com, our note-for-note guitar lesson breaks down this iconic track in detail, helping players of all levels master the techniques that make this song a metal classic. Whether you're looking to tighten your rhythm playing or improve your control over dynamics and tone, this lesson delivers essential skills for any modern rock or metal guitarist. Jamie Humphries breaks down this classic track in this exclusive Lick Library video tutorial.

Song Overview

“Sad But True,” from Metallica’s self-titled 1991 album (commonly referred to as The Black Album), features a slower tempo and a crushingly heavy groove. This change in pace and tonality marked a new era for the band, characterised by groove-laden riffs and more space within the arrangements. Guitarists James Hetfield and Kirk Hammett created a sonic behemoth, relying on sheer weight and phrasing over sheer speed. This track is an excellent study in tone, phrasing, and articulation.

Techniques Covered in the Lesson

Power Chords

At the core of “Sad But True” are massive, down-tuned power chords. These form the foundation of the song's groove and contribute heavily to its thunderous sound. Mastering power chords not only helps build hand strength but also tightens your chord transitions—an essential skill for any rhythm guitarist.

Palm Muting

The track uses palm muting extensively to give the riffs punch and clarity. This technique is crucial in heavy music, helping you control note sustain and create a percussive feel. Practicing palm muting improves right-hand control and rhythm precision.

Alternate Picking

Throughout the main riffs and some of the fills, alternate picking is essential for keeping the rhythm consistent. Developing this technique improves picking accuracy and speed while reducing hand fatigue.

Slides

Kirk Hammett uses expressive slides in his soloing and lead phrases. Slides add fluidity to your phrasing and allow for more vocal-like lines. Learning to slide accurately helps improve fretboard familiarity and expression.

Vibrato

Kirk’s lead lines are peppered with tasteful vibrato, which adds character and emotional weight to sustained notes. Developing vibrato gives your lead playing a signature touch and separates robotic playing from expressive performance.

Hammer-Ons and Pull-Offs

Several fills in the solo make use of hammer-ons and pull-offs, creating smooth, flowing phrases without heavy picking. These techniques enhance legato playing and help develop finger strength and coordination.

String Bending

Emotionally charged string bending plays a big role in the lead guitar sections. Accurate bending allows you to hit target pitches and improve ear-hand coordination—vital for soloing across genres.

Pinched Harmonics

Metallica's tone is often augmented by subtle use of pinched harmonics, adding aggressive overtones to lead notes. These harmonics boost your ability to manipulate tone and add attitude to your lines.

About the Guitarists

James Hetfield and Kirk Hammett form one of metal's most iconic guitar duos. Hetfield’s down-picked precision and immense rhythmic power are legendary, shaping the aggressive yet tight sound of Metallica. He is often cited as one of the greatest rhythm guitarists in rock history.

Kirk Hammett brings a blues-influenced flair to Metallica’s lead work. Known for his wah-drenched solos, emotive bends, and technical proficiency, Hammett has influenced generations of lead guitarists with his approach to melody and phrasing. His playing on “Sad But True” is a masterclass in how to use fewer notes for maximum impact, making it ideal for intermediate players aiming to express more with less.

Why Learn “Sad But True”?

Learning “Sad But True” provides a well-rounded set of skills for any guitarist:

• Strengthens rhythmic tightness through precise down-picking and palm muting.
• Develops tone control via vibrato and pinched harmonics.
• Builds soloing techniques like slides, bends, and hammer-ons/pull-offs.
• Offers real-world application of heavy metal phrasing and groove.

By mastering the techniques in this song, you'll not only build confidence in your playing but also gain insight into what makes Metallica’s music so enduring.

Techniques Featured in This Lesson

• Power Chords
• Palm Muting
• Alternate Picking
• Slides
• Vibrato
• Hammer-Ons
• Pull-Offs
• String Bending
• Pinched Harmonics