Tie Your Mother Down – Queen

Queen’s "Tie Your Mother Down" is a powerhouse track that showcases Brian May’s unparalleled guitar skills and songwriting prowess. This Licklibrary lesson delivers a note-for-note breakdown of the iconic song, providing an in-depth exploration of the guitar techniques that define its legendary sound. Whether you’re a beginner guitarist aiming to elevate your playing or an advanced player refining your technique, this lesson offers valuable insights and practical instruction. Michael Casswell breaks down this classic track in this exclusive Lick Library video tutorial.

About Brian May and His Influence

Brian May is not only the guitarist of Queen but also one of the most innovative and technically proficient players in rock history. Known for his signature "Red Special" guitar and custom-built tones, May’s playing style merges melodic sophistication with raw power. His work on "Tie Your Mother Down" epitomises his ability to combine memorable riffs, intricate solos, and dynamic rhythmic patterns. Learning May’s techniques not only deepens your understanding of rock guitar but also opens up creative possibilities in your own playing.

Breakdown of Techniques in "Tie Your Mother Down"

Power Chords and Palm Muting

The song’s signature riff is built around power chords and a driving rhythm. The use of palm muting gives the riff its percussive quality, creating a tight, punchy groove that propels the song forward.

Benefit: Mastering these techniques enhances your rhythm guitar skills and teaches you how to create dynamic, high-energy riffs.

String Bending and Vibrato

Brian May’s expressive solos feature precise string bending and rich vibrato. These techniques add emotional depth to the solo and allow for nuanced expression.

Benefit: Developing control over bends and vibrato improves your ability to add feeling and character to your playing.

Hammer-Ons and Pull-Offs

The song includes fluid phrases using hammer-ons and pull-offs to create smooth, legato lines.

Benefit: These techniques increase your finger strength and dexterity, essential for crafting fluid, melodic runs.

Double Stops and Bluesy Bends

Throughout the track, May employs double stops and bluesy bends to add harmonic richness and a blues-inspired edge to the solos.

Benefit: Learning these elements enhances your improvisation skills and broadens your tonal palette.

Slides and Syncopated Rhythms

Brian May’s use of slides and intricate syncopated rhythms demonstrates his command of timing and phrasing, contributing to the song’s dynamic feel.

Benefit: Mastering these techniques helps you develop better timing and a stronger sense of groove.

Octave Melodies

One of the standout moments in the song involves octave melodies, a technique May uses to create a fuller sound.

Benefit: Octave melodies teach you how to create texture and depth in your playing, particularly when layering parts in a band setting.

Why Learn "Tie Your Mother Down"?

Studying this Queen classic not only improves your technical proficiency but also provides insights into the art of crafting memorable rock guitar parts. Brian May’s techniques are applicable across genres and will expand your toolkit as a guitarist. By mastering the skills in this song, you’ll gain confidence in rhythm playing, soloing, and expressive phrasing.

Techniques Used in This Lesson

• Power Chords
• Palm Muting
• String Bending
• Vibrato
• Hammer-Ons
• Pull-Offs
• Double Stops
• Bluesy Bends
• Slides
• Syncopated Rhythms
• Octave Melodies

Dive into the lesson today and bring one of rock’s most iconic guitar tracks to life!