One by U2

U2’s “One” is one of the most iconic and emotionally resonant songs of all time, featuring the extraordinary guitar work of The Edge. With a unique blend of atmospheric textures and heartfelt simplicity, this track is a masterpiece of musical storytelling. Our note-for-note guitar lesson for "One" dives deep into the techniques and stylistic nuances of The Edge's playing, empowering you to replicate the song with precision while enhancing your overall guitar skills. Jamie Humphries breaks down this classic track in this exclusive Lick Library video tutorial.

The Edge and His Influence

David Howell Evans, famously known as The Edge, is the guitarist of U2 and a pioneer of minimalist yet evocative guitar playing. His work on "One" exemplifies his approach to using effects like delay and reverb to create expansive soundscapes. By focusing on tone, melody, and dynamics rather than speed or complexity, The Edge has inspired generations of players to prioritize emotion and atmosphere. Learning his techniques not only helps you master this classic track but also deepens your understanding of how to use the guitar as a storytelling instrument.

Techniques Covered in the Lesson

Arpeggiated Chord Progressions

The main riff in "One" relies heavily on arpeggiated chord progressions, where chords are played as individual notes in a sequence. This technique creates a flowing, melodic sound that forms the backbone of the song. Practicing arpeggiations improves finger independence and precision, making it easier to tackle similar riffs in other songs.

Slides

Slides are used throughout the song to add fluidity and expressiveness to transitions between notes. Incorporating slides into your playing helps develop a smoother sound and enhances your ability to connect musical phrases seamlessly.

Hammer-Ons and Pull-Offs

The subtle use of hammer-ons and pull-offs in "One" adds rhythmic variation and melodic embellishment. These techniques are excellent for building finger strength and coordination, which are crucial for advanced lead playing.

String Bending

The Edge's tasteful string bending in this track demonstrates how bending can be used sparingly to inject emotion into a melody. Learning this technique sharpens your pitch control and improves your ear for expressive phrasing.

Sustain

One of the hallmarks of The Edge’s style is his ability to create long, singing notes with carefully controlled sustain. Practicing sustain teaches you how to use your equipment and technique to hold notes while maintaining clarity and dynamics.

Chord Progressions

The chord progressions in "One" are straightforward yet deeply evocative. Learning these progressions helps you understand how harmonic choices can evoke emotion and set the tone of a piece.

Capo Usage

The Edge employs a capo to achieve the unique voicings that define the song’s character. Exploring capo usage expands your ability to play in different keys and experiment with tonal possibilities.

Delay and Effects Usage

While not a technique in the traditional sense, mastering the use of delay and reverb is critical for replicating The Edge's sound. This lesson explains how to dial in the right settings, teaching you how effects can transform simple parts into lush, atmospheric textures.

Benefits of Learning These Techniques

By mastering the techniques featured in "One," you will:

1. Enhance Your Fingerstyle Precision: Techniques like arpeggios and hammer-ons develop your ability to play cleanly and fluidly.
2. Improve Expressiveness: Slides, bends, and sustain help you infuse more emotion into your playing.
3. Expand Your Tonal Palette: Capo usage and effects demonstrate how to creatively shape your sound.
4. Strengthen Your Musicality: The song’s emphasis on melody and harmony sharpens your sense of musical storytelling.

Guitar Techniques List

Here are the techniques used in our "One" by U2 guitar lesson, with links to their respective glossaries for further exploration:

• Arpeggiated Chord Progressions
• Slides
• Hammer-Ons
• Pull-Offs
• String Bending
• Sustain
• Chord Progressions
• Capo

By exploring these techniques, you'll gain a comprehensive understanding of what makes "One" such a timeless masterpiece and elevate your guitar playing to new heights.