A Deep Dive into "39" by Queen: Guitar Lesson

When one thinks of the iconic band Queen, a plethora of memorable hits come to mind. From their stage presence to their intricate compositions, Queen's impact on the music scene is undeniable. From their famed album 'A Night at the Opera,' the track "'39" stands out as a unique representation of their genius. Composed and sung by the band's lead guitarist, Brian May, this song offers a trove of insight for budding guitarists. Sam Bell delves deeper into this masterpiece.

Guitar Chords and Progressions

"'39" can be described as a folk rock ballad, and in line with this genre, it employs a combination of basic open chords and some more intricate ones. The primary chords in the song are G, D, C, Em, and Am. These chords anchor the song and provide a familiar landscape over which the melody and story unfold.

As with most Queen songs, however, it doesn't stop there. The chord progressions are not entirely straightforward. For instance, there's a delightful transition between G and D/F# in certain sections that adds depth and nuance to the arrangement. The use of D/F# showcases Queen's ability to employ inversions, which allow for a richer bass line.

Guitar Scales and Solo Analysis

The song doesn't have an elaborate guitar solo, but there's a beautiful middle section that serves as an interlude. This part uses the G major scale predominantly. Brian May, in his genius, manages to evoke a sense of longing and distance, aligning perfectly with the song's lyrical content about space travel and time dilation.

Brian May: The Genius at Play

Brian May is renowned for his unique style, melding rock with intricate, layered melodies, often reminiscent of classical orchestration. In "'39," his approach is stripped down, leaning heavily into the folk influence. Yet, his signature touch is unmistakable. Using his Red Special guitar, a homemade creation, May manages to extract a tone that is both warm and bright, fitting for the narrative of the song.

Guitar Techniques in '39

While "'39" may not showcase the flashiest of Queen's guitar techniques, it beautifully employs several of them to create its rich tapestry:

• Finger-picking: Used throughout, giving it a folk feel.
• Open-string riffs: Offering a resonating backdrop, especially in the intro.
• Slides: Adding fluidity and connecting chords.
• Chord progressions: Skilfully navigating through the song, adding depth.
• Arpeggios: Used in the background to create a sense of space.

Concluding Thoughts

"'39" by Queen from 'A Night at the Opera' serves as a reminder that rock music can be both profound and technically impressive. As a guitarist, exploring this song can open up avenues to understanding the versatility of the instrument. Whether it's the chordal choices, the finger-picking technique, or simply absorbing the magic of Brian May's approach, "'39" is a masterclass in musical storytelling. From its captivating narrative about time and space to its evocative guitar work, the song remains a timeless classic for guitarists to study and enjoy.