"God Save the Queen" by Queen - Guitar Lesson

"God Save the Queen" by the iconic band Queen, from their magnum opus 'A Night at the Opera,' is a demonstration of guitar virtuosity. The intricacies and layers hidden within the song offer guitarists a canvas to understand the genius of Queen's lead guitarist, Brian May. Sam Bell delves into the world of this song, analysing its guitar chords, scales, and the majestic guitar solo, among other elements.

Chords and Scales

The song predominantly circles around major chords, reflecting a regal ambiance. The primary chords featured include D, G, and A major. These chords are foundational and can be found in countless rock classics, but it's the way Brian May employs them that creates the majestic aura. A mix of major scales and pentatonic scales, particularly the D major and D major pentatonic, form the foundation of the melodic content.

Guitar Solo Analysis

The solo in "God Save the Queen" is a testament to May's unmatched ability to craft melodies that soar. His solo is meticulously constructed, every note telling a part of the story. You'll find a mixture of elongated sustained notes and quicker runs that add variety and drama to the solo.

Brian May utilises the aforementioned D major pentatonic scale but adds his signature touch. He dabbles in the relative B minor pentatonic, hinting at a more profound emotion, only to resolve beautifully back into major tonality. The solo is an auditory journey, with peaks, valleys, and breathtaking vistas.

Brian May - The Guitar Maestro

Brian May, with his homemade "Red Special" guitar and distinctive tone, is truly the heart and soul behind the sonic landscapes of Queen. He has an unparalleled ability to blend technical proficiency with profound emotion. In "God Save the Queen," his playing reflects a deep reverence for the anthem, while still stamping his unique rock-infused twist on it. His tones are thick, layered, and awash with a sea of delay and reverb, crafting an atmosphere that's both intimate and expansive.

Techniques Used in the Song:

For our fellow guitarists, here's a detailed breakdown of the techniques employed by Brian May in this track:

1. Vibrato: Used liberally to add emotion to sustained notes.
2. Alternate Picking: Helps in executing the faster note sequences.
3. Legato: Smooth note transitions, especially evident in the solo.
4. Double-Stop Bends: For those richer bend sounds.
5. Unison Bends: Creating a choir-like effect on the guitar.
6. Harmonics: Used sparingly for accentuating specific notes.
7. Pull-Offs: For smoother note descends.
8. Power Chords: The backbone of the rhythm sections.
9. Palm-Muting: For controlled dynamics in riffs.
10. Barre Chords: Full, rich chords used in the song.
11. Slides: A subtle technique for transitioning between notes.
12. String-Bending: Emphasising certain notes to elicit emotion.
13. Whammy-Bar Tricks: Brian's usage of his tremolo arm for added expression.

In conclusion, "God Save the Queen" by Queen is not just a rendition of a national anthem but an evocative tapestry of sonic brilliance. For guitarists, it offers a wealth of learning in terms of technique, tone, and emotional expression.