Learn to play There Is A Light That Never Goes Out - Guitar Lesson
Guitar lesson for this song by The Smiths
There Is A Light That Never Goes Out – The Smiths
In this note-for-note guitar lesson for “There Is A Light That Never Goes Out” by The Smiths, Sam Bell explores one of the most iconic and emotionally resonant guitar parts of the 1980s. Known for its shimmering textures, expressive harmony, and instantly recognisable melodic movement, the song is a perfect study in how tasteful guitar writing can elevate a composition without relying on virtuoso excess.
In this LickLibrary lesson, you’ll be guided through every guitar part in detail, focusing on the techniques that define the song’s sound and feel. Rather than heavy distortion or aggressive riffing, this track is built on touch, timing, and harmonic awareness. Learning it note for note gives players a deeper understanding of how subtle technical choices can create atmosphere, emotion, and musical identity.
Song Overview and Guitar Approach
“There Is A Light That Never Goes Out” is a masterclass in layered guitar writing. The arrangement relies on flowing chord shapes, arpeggiated figures, and melodic inner voices that move independently within the harmony. The guitar parts feel orchestral, weaving around the vocal melody while still providing rhythmic momentum and harmonic depth.
This lesson breaks down how the guitar supports the song from start to finish, showing how consistent right-hand control and thoughtful fretting-hand choices keep the part smooth and expressive. You’ll also explore how small details—such as note emphasis and position choice—play a crucial role in capturing the song’s unmistakable character.
Arpeggios
Arpeggios form the backbone of the guitar work in this song. Instead of strumming full chords, the harmony is outlined by picking individual notes in a flowing, repeating pattern. Learning these arpeggios helps develop precision and control in your picking hand, while also improving your ability to hear and highlight chord tones. This technique is essential for players who want to create movement and texture without overcrowding the mix.
Chord Progressions
The song’s chord progressions are emotionally rich and harmonically distinctive. This lesson explores how the sequence of chords underpins the song’s melancholic yet uplifting mood. Understanding these progressions will strengthen your harmonic awareness and help you recognise how chord movement can shape the emotional arc of a song—an invaluable skill for songwriting and arranging.
Barre Chords
Barre chords are used to maintain consistent voicings and smooth transitions between positions on the neck. In this lesson, you’ll learn how to move between barre shapes cleanly and efficiently, keeping every note ringing clearly. Mastering this technique builds left-hand strength and stamina, while also expanding your ability to play complex progressions across the fretboard.
Capo Use
A capo is key to achieving the original tonal colour and chord voicings heard on the recording. This lesson explains how and why the capo is used, and how it allows familiar chord shapes to take on a brighter, more resonant character. Learning to work confidently with a capo opens up new sonic possibilities and helps you adapt songs to different vocal ranges and textures.
Alternate Picking
Alternate picking is essential for maintaining the even, flowing feel of the arpeggiated patterns. This lesson focuses on keeping your picking hand relaxed and consistent, ensuring that each note speaks clearly without unwanted accents. Developing this control improves timing, accuracy, and endurance—skills that translate directly to many other musical styles.
Slides
Subtle slides are used to connect chord tones and melodic notes smoothly. Rather than sounding flashy, these slides add a vocal-like quality to the guitar line. Learning to use slides tastefully improves your phrasing and helps your playing sound more fluid and expressive.
Double Stops
Double stops appear as part of the harmonic texture, adding richness and emphasis to certain moments. This lesson shows how to balance both notes evenly and integrate them naturally into the arpeggiated framework. Mastering double stops enhances your understanding of harmony and interval relationships on the fretboard.
The Guitarist and His Influence
The guitar work on this song was crafted by Johnny Marr, one of the most influential guitarists of his generation. Marr redefined the role of the guitar in alternative music, favouring layered melodies and rhythmic interplay over traditional rock riffing. His approach has inspired countless players across indie, pop, and alternative genres, proving that creativity and musicality often matter more than technical flash. Studying this song offers a direct insight into his unique musical mindset.
Why Learn This Song?
Learning “There Is A Light That Never Goes Out” note for note will sharpen your sense of timing, harmony, and touch. It’s an ideal lesson for players looking to refine their musical sensitivity, improve their clean-tone control, and understand how guitar parts can serve a song rather than dominate it. The techniques explored here are widely applicable, making this lesson a valuable addition to any guitarist’s repertoire.
Guitar Techniques Used in This Lesson
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