Learn to Play “Problems” by Sex Pistols

Take a raw, gritty journey through one of punk rock’s most rebellious anthems with our note-for-note guitar lesson for "Problems" by the Sex Pistols. At LickLibrary.com, we’ve captured the full ferocity of this track with an in-depth breakdown that delivers every riff, chord, and sneer-inducing rhythm that made it a defining statement of the punk movement. This lesson is perfect for guitarists who want to master the aggressive, no-frills playing style that underpins classic punk rock and discover the key techniques that power this era-defining song. Danny Gill breaks down this classic track in this exclusive Lick Library video tutorial.

About the Song and Its Impact

“Problems” is a standout track from the Sex Pistols’ only studio album, Never Mind the Bollocks, Here's the Sex Pistols. Released in 1977, the song is a punch in the face of establishment culture, and its riff-heavy, confrontational tone set a new bar for what guitar-driven protest music could sound like. Built on a foundation of distorted power chords, slashing rhythms, and relentless attitude, “Problems” is an excellent case study in pure punk guitar.

Guitarist Profile: Steve Jones

Steve Jones, the band’s guitarist, is often underrated in the wider conversation of influential guitarists, but his contributions to punk cannot be overstated. His sound on Never Mind the Bollocks is massive, aggressive, and deceptively tight, especially for a genre often associated with chaos. Jones’ ability to layer thick guitar textures using overdubs and create high-energy, no-nonsense riffs has been massively influential to generations of punk, alternative, and hard rock players. His style focuses on clarity and force, and his execution in “Problems” is a masterclass in controlled aggression.

Guitar Techniques Explored in “Problems”

Power Chords

The foundation of “Problems” is the power chord – a staple of punk rock and hard rock guitar playing. In this lesson, you’ll learn how to execute these essential two- or three-note shapes cleanly and confidently. Mastering power chords will significantly enhance your rhythm playing, giving you the ability to build dynamic, driving progressions that cut through a mix.

Palm Muting

Jones frequently uses palm muting to add percussive energy and dynamic control to his rhythms. By partially resting the picking hand on the strings near the bridge, palm muting creates a tight, chugging sound perfect for accenting riffs and building tension. Learning this technique is crucial for controlling the attack of your playing and is especially useful in heavier or rhythm-driven genres.

Slides

The aggressive transitions between chord positions in “Problems” often include slides, a technique where you glide your finger across the fretboard while keeping pressure on the string. Slides add a fluid, connected feel to chord changes and riff phrasing. Practicing slides improves finger strength and precision, especially when shifting between positions quickly.

String Bending

Though not flashy, string bending makes appearances in Jones' fills and transitions, contributing to the raw, emotive sound of the song. Learning to bend accurately enhances your expressive capabilities and helps develop better pitch control and finger strength.

Chord Progressions

“Problems” is built on simple but effective chord progressions, making it an ideal learning ground for guitarists wanting to understand how minimalism can still carry emotional and sonic weight. Breaking down the song’s progression will help guitarists improve their musical phrasing and rhythmic timing, while also offering insight into punk’s songwriting DNA.

Why Learn These Techniques?

Every technique featured in our “Problems” guitar lesson serves a greater purpose in a guitarist’s toolbox:

• Power chords develop your rhythm foundation and help in nearly all rock-based genres.
• Palm muting enhances your dynamic control and articulation.
• Slides improve fluidity and fretboard navigation.
• String bending strengthens expressive phrasing and ear training.
• Chord progression analysis sharpens your understanding of song structure and composition.

These techniques are not just about playing punk – they are core skills for any guitarist, regardless of style.

Conclusion

Learning to play “Problems” by the Sex Pistols is more than just a tribute to punk rock history. It’s an opportunity to build your confidence, strengthen your technique, and understand how raw emotion and minimalist playing can result in truly powerful music. With our step-by-step video lesson, you'll get the tools you need to play the song just like Steve Jones – loud, proud, and unapologetically aggressive.

Guitar Techniques Used in This Lesson

• Power Chords
• Palm Muting
• Slides
• String Bending
• Chord Progressions