How to Play the Iconic "Everlong" by Foo Fighters on Guitar

Prepare yourself for a musical odyssey as we delve into the intricacies of playing “Everlong” by the Foo Fighters on guitar. This iconic rock anthem is renowned for its heartfelt lyrics, soaring melodies, and driving power chords. Whether you’re a seasoned guitarist or a novice aspiring to conquer this masterpiece, this comprehensive guide will equip you with the knowledge and techniques to bring this timeless song to life on your guitar.

The foundation of “Everlong” lies in the interplay between distortion and clean guitar tones. The opening riff, instantly recognizable, features a distorted power chord progression in the key of D. To execute this riff effectively, you’ll need to master palm muting, a technique that involves muting the strings with the heel of your picking hand. In contrast, the verse section introduces a cleaner guitar sound, characterized by arpeggiated chords and delicate fingerpicking patterns. Transitioning between these contrasting tones seamlessly is crucial to capturing the song’s dynamic and emotive essence.

Beyond the basic chords and techniques, the true magic of “Everlong” resides in the subtle nuances and embellishments. As the song progresses, you’ll encounter a haunting lead guitar melody that intertwines with the vocals during the chorus. Playing this melody requires a combination of bends, hammer-ons, and pull-offs, executed with finesse and precision. Additionally, the bridge section features a captivating descending chromatic run, adding a touch of harmonic sophistication to the arrangement. By incorporating these elements into your performance, you’ll elevate your rendition of “Everlong” from a mere strumming session to a truly expressive and captivating musical experience.

Fingerpicking Pattern

The fingerpicking pattern for the main riff is:

Thumb on the bass note (low E string, 7th fret)
Index finger on the melody note (B string, 3rd fret)
Middle finger on the melody note (G string, 2nd fret)
Ring finger on the melody note (D string, 2nd fret)
Little finger on the melody note (A string, 0th fret)

Continue this pattern throughout the riff.

Verse Riff

The verse riff consists of the following chords:

G (3rd fret, low E string)
C (0th fret, A string)
D (2nd fret, D string)
Em (0th fret, B string)

Play these chords in the following pattern:

G (4 beats)
C (2 beats)
D (2 beats)
Em (4 beats)

Chorus Riff

The chorus riff consists of the following chords:

C (0th fret, A string)
G (3rd fret, low E string)
Am (0th fret, G string)
F (1st fret, E string)

Play these chords in the following pattern:

C (4 beats)
G (4 beats)
Am (4 beats)
F (4 beats)

Bridge Riff

The bridge riff consists of the following chords:

Em (0th fret, B string)
C (0th fret, A string)
G (3rd fret, low E string)
D (2nd fret, D string)

The bridge riff is played in two parts. The first part consists of the following chords:

The second part consists of the following chords:

The bridge riff is then repeated, playing both parts twice.

Outro Riff

The outro riff consists of the following chords:

C (0th fret, A string)
G (3rd fret, low E string)
F (1st fret, E string)
C (0th fret, A string)

Play these chords in the following pattern:

C (4 beats)
G (4 beats)
F (4 beats)
C (5 beats)

Palm Muting for Verses

Palm muting is a crucial technique for achieving the distinctive rhythmic drive of Everlong. This technique involves resting the side of your palm lightly on the strings close to the bridge, effectively dampening the sound of the strings and creating a percussive effect. In the verses of Everlong, palm muting is applied to the D, A, and E strings.

9. Palm Muting Technique

To execute palm muting correctly, follow these steps:

Position your picking hand so that the side of your palm faces the strings.
Place your palm about an inch above the bridge, on the D, A, and E strings.
Apply light pressure with your palm to mute the strings.
As you strum, ensure that the palm stays in contact with the strings throughout the downstrokes and releases slightly during the upstrokes.

The key to palm muting is to find the right balance of pressure and release. If you press too hard, the strings will be completely muted and lose their percussive sound. On the other hand, if you press too lightly, the strings will ring out too much and lose the rhythmic definition necessary for the song.

10. Rhythm Pattern

The palm-muted rhythm in the verses of Everlong follows a consistent pattern:

Downstroke on the D string (palm muted)
Downstroke on the A string (palm muted)
Downstroke on the E string (palm muted)
Upstroke on the D string (partially muted)
Downstroke on the D string (palm muted)
Downstroke on the A string (palm muted)

Downstroke	Upstroke
D (palm muted)	D (partially muted)
A (palm muted)
E (palm muted)

Mastering palm muting and applying it correctly will significantly enhance the authenticity and rhythmic groove of your Everlong performance.

Finger Placement on the Fretboard

The finger placement on the fretboard is crucial for playing Everlong accurately. Here’s a detailed guide to the fingerings used:

Fret	String	Finger
1	Low E	Index
3	A	Middle
2	D	Ring
0	G	Pinky
1	B	Index
2	High E	Middle

Index Finger:

The index finger is used to fret the first fret on the low E and B strings. When playing the low E string, position the index finger directly behind the metal fret bar. For the B string, slightly curl the index finger and place the fingertip just behind the fret bar.

Middle Finger:

The middle finger frets the third fret on the A string and the second fret on the high E string. For the A string, position the fingertip directly behind the fret bar, while for the high E string, slightly curl the middle finger and place the fingertip just behind the fret bar.

Ring Finger:

The ring finger frets the second fret on the D string. Position the ring fingertip directly behind the fret bar and apply slight pressure to ensure a clear note.

Pinky:

The pinky frets the open G string. Position the pinky directly behind the nut, which is the small ridge at the end of the fretboard. Apply light pressure and avoid touching any other strings.

Left-Hand Positioning:

The left hand should be positioned in a relaxed and natural way. The thumb should rest on the back of the neck, behind the index finger. The fingers should be curved and slightly arched, with the fingertips resting directly behind the fret bars.

Muting:

Muting is essential to prevent unwanted noise from ringing out. Use the palm of the fretting hand to lightly rest on the strings below the fretted notes. This will dampen the vibrations and create a clean, defined sound.

Practice Tips:

Practice slowly and gradually increase your speed. Focus on accuracy and finger placement. Use a metronome to maintain a steady rhythm. Practice regularly to develop muscle memory and coordination. Don’t get discouraged; with patience and practice, you will master the finger placement for Everlong.

Style and Tone of the Original

Everlong by the Foo Fighters is a grunge rock song with a slow, brooding tempo and a quiet-loud dynamic. The verses are played in a clean guitar tone, while the chorus features a distorted power chord progression. The song’s overall tone is one of melancholy and longing, with lyrics that explore themes of love, loss, and regret.

Chords

Verse 1	Chorus
C	G
Am	D
F	Em
G	C

Picking Pattern

The picking pattern for the verse is a simple downstroke on each note. For the chorus, the picking pattern is a downstroke on the first and third beats, and an upstroke on the second and fourth beats.

Strumming Pattern

The strumming pattern for the verse is a downstroke on each beat. For the chorus, the strumming pattern is a downstroke on the first and third beats, and an upstroke on the second and fourth beats.

Guitar Solo

The guitar solo in Everlong is played in a distorted tone. The solo begins with a series of bends and hammer-ons, followed by a fast-paced picking section. The solo ends with a slide down to the root note of the song.

#### Bass Line

The bass line in Everlong is played in a simple root-note style. The bass line follows the same chord progression as the guitar, with a few variations in the chorus. The bass line also provides some rhythmic support for the song.

#### Drums

The drums in Everlong are played in a simple backbeat style. The drums provide a steady groove for the song, and they also add some accents to the chorus and bridge sections. The drums also feature a fill at the end of the song.

#### Vocals

The vocals in Everlong are sung in a low, raspy voice. The lyrics are often delivered in a hushed whisper, but they build to a crescendo in the chorus. The vocals are an essential part of the song’s overall atmosphere, and they help to create a sense of intimacy and longing.

#### Production

Everlong was produced by Barrett Jones and the Foo Fighters. The song was recorded at the Bear Creek Studio in Woodinville, Washington. The production of the song is clean and clear, and it allows the individual instruments to shine through. The overall sound of the song is warm and inviting, and it helps to create a sense of intimacy between the listener and the band.

Capturing the Energy of the Song

Everlong is a powerful and emotional song, and it’s important to capture that energy when playing it on guitar. Here are a few tips:

1. Use a Heavy Pick

A heavy pick will help you get a thick, distorted sound that will cut through the mix. A pick made of tortex or Ultex is a good choice.

2. Use Palm Muting

Palm muting is a technique that involves muting the strings with the palm of your hand. This will help you get a choppy, rhythmic sound that is essential to Everlong.

3. Get the Right Amp Settings

The amp settings you use will also affect the sound of Everlong. You’ll want to use a high-gain setting with plenty of distortion. You may also want to add some reverb to create a spacious sound.

4. Practice, Practice, Practice

The best way to get good at playing Everlong is to practice. The more you practice, the more you’ll be able to capture the energy of the song.

5. Listen to the Original Recording

If you’re struggling to capture the energy of Everlong, try listening to the original recording. Pay attention to the guitar playing, the drums, and the vocals. See if you can identify any specific techniques that the players are using.

6. Experiment with Different Playing Styles

Once you’ve got the basics down, don’t be afraid to experiment with different playing styles. You may be able to come up with your own unique interpretation of Everlong.

7. Have Fun

Most importantly, have fun when you’re playing Everlong. It’s a great song to play, and it should be enjoyable.

8. Other Tips

Here are a few other tips that may help you capture the energy of Everlong:

Use a capo on the 2nd fret.
Tune your guitar down half a step.
Use a slide guitar on the chorus.

9. Table of Fret Positions

String	Fret
E	0
A	2
D	2
G	1
B	3
E	0

10. Song Structure

Everlong is a fairly simple song in terms of structure. It consists of a verse, chorus, and bridge. The verse is played twice, and the chorus is played three times. The bridge is played once, after the second chorus.

Incorporating Dynamics

Dynamics refer to the variations in volume and intensity employed throughout a song to evoke different emotions and create a sense of contrast. Everlong features a dynamic range that spans from soft, introspective moments to powerful, anthemic choruses. Here’s how to incorporate dynamics into your rendition of the song:

1. Soft Verse:

The first verse begins softly and intimately, conveying a sense of reflection and vulnerability. Use a gentle touch with your picking hand and reduce the volume slightly. Avoid using heavy distortion or effects.

2. Crescendo to Chorus:

As the verse progresses, the intensity gradually increases, leading up to the chorus. Begin applying a subtle crescendo by gradually increasing the volume and intensity of your playing. This will create a sense of anticipation and build momentum for the explosive chorus.

3. Explosive Chorus:

The chorus explodes with power and emotion. Dial up the distortion and volume, digging into the strings with a strong picking hand. The chorus should contrast sharply with the softer verses, creating a dynamic and memorable impact.

4. Soft Outro:

After the climactic chorus, the song gradually winds down into a soft outro. Reduce the volume and distortion, using a gentle and ethereal picking style. This creates a sense of resolution and closure, leaving a lasting impression on the listener.

5. Dynamic Variations in Verses:

While the first verse is played softly, subsequent verses may have slightly more variations in dynamics. Emphasize certain phrases or words by playing them slightly louder or more intensely. This adds depth and interest to the verses.

6. Subtle Accents:

In addition to the major dynamic shifts, pay attention to subtle accents within the song. For example, the “Everlong” refrain in the chorus can be given a subtle emphasis by picking it slightly louder than the surrounding lyrics.

7. Controlled Feedback:

The outro features a controlled burst of feedback, adding a visceral and atmospheric element to the song. Engage your distortion pedal and gently feed the guitar’s output back into the amp, creating a swirling and ethereal sound. However, keep the feedback controlled and tasteful.

8. Exploring Different Tones:

Each section of the song has its own unique tone. Experiment with different pickup positions, guitar effects, and playing techniques to create distinct sonic landscapes. For example, use a neck pickup with a clean tone for the soft intro and a bridge pickup with heavy distortion for the chorus.

9. Use of Compression:

Compression can be a useful tool for enhancing dynamics. A light amount of compression can help even out the volume of different sections, making the transitions between soft and loud moments smoother.

10. Practice and Patience:

Mastering dynamics takes practice and patience. Study the song’s structure and emotional flow to understand where dynamic changes are appropriate. Experiment with different approaches and techniques until you find what works best for your interpretation of Everlong.

Mastering the Solo

Now let’s dive into the iconic solo that has made Everlong a timeless guitar piece. It’s a fusion of raw emotion and technical brilliance, and conquering it takes practice, dedication, and a deep understanding of your instrument.

1. Warm-Up and Finger Exercise

Before tackling the solo, warm up your fingers with scales, arpeggios, and finger exercises. This will increase your dexterity and muscle memory, making the transition to the solo smoother.

2. Break it Down into Smaller Sections

The solo is not a single, continuous run but a series of smaller phrases and licks. Break it down into 4-8 bar sections and focus on mastering each one individually.

3. Learn the Notes

Identify the notes used in each phrase and memorize their positions on the fretboard. Understanding the underlying notes will give you a solid foundation for improvisation and expression.

4. Practice Slowly and Gradually Increase Speed

Practice the solo slowly at first, ensuring each note is played cleanly and accurately. Gradually increase the tempo as you become more comfortable with the fingerings.

5. Focus on Timing and Feel

The solo is not just about the notes but also about the timing and feel. Use a metronome or backing track to practice the groove and ensure your playing is cohesive.

6. Experiment with Different Techniques

The solo contains a variety of techniques, including bends, hammer-ons, pull-offs, and slides. Experiment with these techniques to find your own unique interpretation of the solo.

7. Improvise and Express Yourself

Once you have mastered the basic notes and techniques, don’t be afraid to improvise and add your own personal touch to the solo. Let your emotions guide your playing and create something truly unique.

8. Record and Listen Back

Recording yourself playing the solo can help you identify areas for improvement. Listen back to your recordings and analyze your timing, intonation, and overall expression.

9. Seek Guidance from a Teacher or Mentor

If you encounter any difficulties or roadblocks, consider seeking guidance from a guitar teacher or mentor. An experienced player can provide valuable insights and help you overcome technical hurdles.

10. Practice and Persevere

Mastering the Everlong solo is not a quick and easy process. It requires dedication, practice, and perseverance. Set aside regular time to practice and don’t let setbacks discourage you. With consistent effort, you will eventually conquer this epic guitar masterpiece.

Section	Description
Warm-Up	Scales, arpeggios, finger exercises
Breaking Down	Breaking the solo into smaller sections
Notes	Identifying and memorizing the notes
Speed	Practicing slowly and gradually increasing tempo
Timing	Using a metronome or backing track
Techniques	Experimenting with bends, hammer-ons, pull-offs, slides
Improvisation	Adding personal touch
Recording	Listening back for analysis
Guidance	Seeking help from a teacher or mentor
Practice	Regular and consistent practice

Choosing the Right Guitar and Strings

42. Fine-tuning Your Intonation

To ensure your guitar is perfectly in tune, precise intonation is essential. Every string should produce the correct pitch when played at different frets.

Here’s a step-by-step guide to fine-tuning your intonation:

Step 1: Check the Harmonics

Play the 12th fret harmonic on the low E string (E4) and compare it to the fretted note at the 12th fret.
Repeat for the A, D, G, and B strings.

Step 2: Adjust the Saddle

If the harmonic is higher than the fretted note, move the saddle closer to the bridge.
If the harmonic is lower, move the saddle away from the bridge.
Use a small screwdriver to make the adjustments.

Step 3: Recheck and Refine

Play the harmonics and fretted notes again to check the intonation.
Make minor adjustments as needed until the harmonics and fretted notes match perfectly.
Repeat this process for all six strings.

Step 4: Use a Guitar Tuner

To complement the harmonics method, use a guitar tuner to ensure accurate tuning. Play the fretted notes and adjust the saddle accordingly. Combine the harmonic and tuner approaches for optimal intonation.

String	Fretted Note at 12th Fret	Harmonic Note at 12th Fret
Low E	E4	E4
A	A4	A4
D	D4	D4
G	G4	G4
B	B4	B4
High E	E5	E5

Playing Along with a Live Band

Performing with a live band is an exhilarating experience that requires preparation, coordination, and a keen ear. Follow these steps to ensure a successful and enjoyable performance:

1. Learn the Songs Thoroughly

Master the chords, lyrics, and progressions of the songs you’ll be playing. This will give you the confidence to improvise and adapt during the performance.

2. Practice with the Band

Attend band rehearsals and jam sessions to familiarize yourself with the other musicians, their playing styles, and the overall sound of the band.

3. Listen to the Band’s Live Performances

Attend live shows or watch videos of the band to get a sense of their stage presence, dynamics, and how they interact with the audience.

4. Coordinate Equipment and Setup

Ensure your guitar, pedals, and amplifier are in top condition and match the sound requirements of the venue. Communicate with the band’s sound engineer to optimize your setup.

5. Manage Stage Positioning

Position yourself where you can see and hear the other musicians clearly. Avoid standing too close to the drums or other loud instruments that could drown out your sound.

6. Listen Attentively and Respond

Pay attention to the bandleader, other musicians, and the audience. React to cues and respond to the energy level of the performance.

7. Be Flexible with Timing

Live performances are not always perfectly timed. Adapt your playing to any tempo or key changes that occur on stage.

8. Control Nervousness

It’s normal to feel some nerves before a live performance. Take deep breaths, visualize a successful outcome, and focus on delivering your best.

9. Interact with the Audience

Engage with the audience through eye contact, smiles, or simple movements. Show your appreciation for their support and create a connection that enhances the overall performance.

10. Enjoy the Moment

Remember that playing with a live band is a unique and special experience. Embrace the energy, enjoy the process, and strive to create a memorable performance for both yourself and the audience.

Performing with Confidence

Performing live can be a nerve-wracking experience, but with a little preparation, you can overcome your fears and deliver a confident and engaging performance. Here are some tips:

Practice, Practice, Practice

The more you practice, the more comfortable you will become with the material and the less likely you are to make mistakes. Be sure to practice both the technical aspects of the song, such as the chords and strumming patterns, as well as the performance aspects, such as your stage presence and interaction with the audience.

Know Your Audience

If you know who you are playing for, you can tailor your performance to their interests and needs. For example, if you are playing for a group of friends, you can be more relaxed and informal. If you are playing for a more formal audience, you will need to be more polished and professional.

Visualize Success

Before you go on stage, take a few minutes to visualize yourself performing successfully. See yourself playing the song flawlessly, connecting with the audience, and receiving thunderous applause. This will help to boost your confidence and reduce your anxiety.

Focus on the Present

When you are on stage, don’t dwell on past mistakes or worry about the future. Instead, focus on the present moment and enjoy the experience. If you make a mistake, don’t let it throw you off. Just keep playing and the audience will never know.

Have Fun

Most importantly, have fun! Performing live should be an enjoyable experience. If you are having fun, your audience will be having fun too. So relax, let loose, and enjoy the moment.

Here are some additional tips for performing with confidence:

Arrive at the venue early to get acclimated to the space and meet with the sound engineer.
Warm up your voice and body before you go on stage.
Use a metronome or backing track to keep you on time.
Make eye contact with the audience and engage with them throughout your performance.
Don’t be afraid to make mistakes. Everyone makes mistakes, and the audience will understand.
Have fun! Performing live should be an enjoyable experience, so don’t take it too seriously.

Dealing with Stage Fright

Stage fright is a common experience, but it can be overcome with a little preparation and practice. Here are some tips for dealing with stage fright:

Practice relaxation techniques, such as deep breathing and visualization.
Talk to a therapist or counselor about your anxiety.
Use positive self-talk to boost your confidence.
Focus on the positive aspects of performing, such as the opportunity to share your music with others.
Remember that everyone gets nervous before a performance. Just take a deep breath and focus on your performance.

Overcoming Performance Anxiety

Performance anxiety is a more severe form of stage fright that can be debilitating. If you suffer from performance anxiety, it is important to seek professional help. A therapist can help you identify the root of your anxiety and develop coping mechanisms.

Here are some additional resources that you may find helpful:

The National Institute of Mental Health: https://www.nimh.nih.gov/
The Anxiety and Depression Association of America: https://adaa.org/
The International OCD Foundation: https://iocdf.org/

How to Play Everlong on Guitar

Tuning

Tune your guitar to standard tuning (E, A, D, G, B, E).

Chords

The main chords used in Everlong are:

Strumming Pattern

The most common strumming pattern for Everlong is:

Downstroke on the 1
Downstroke on the 2
Downstroke on the 3
Downstroke on the 4
Upstroke on the "and" of 4

Picking Pattern

For the intro, use a picking pattern of:

Downstroke on the 1
Downstroke on the 2
Downstroke on the 3
Upstroke on the "and" of 3

Verse

The verse chords are G, C, D, and Am. The strumming pattern is the same as the intro.

Chorus

The chorus chords are G, C, D, and Em. The strumming pattern changes to:

Downstroke on the 1
Downstroke on the 2
Downstroke on the 3
Upstroke on the 4
Downstroke on the 5

Bridge

The bridge chords are Am, G, C, and D. The strumming pattern is the same as the intro.

Outro

The outro chords are G, C, D, and Em. The strumming pattern is the same as the chorus.

Tips

Use a capo on the 4th fret to make the song easier to play.
Practice the picking pattern slowly at first.
Once you have the basics down, experiment with different strumming and picking patterns to create your own unique sound.

Promoting Your Cover on Social Media

Once you’ve recorded your cover of Everlong, it’s time to share it with the world! Here are a few tips for promoting your cover on social media:

1. Create a catchy thumbnail

Your thumbnail is the first thing people will see when they come across your video, so make sure it’s attention-grabbing. Use a high-quality image that represents your cover well.

2. Write a compelling description

Your description should include a brief overview of your cover, as well as any relevant hashtags. Be sure to include a link to your video so people can easily find it.

3. Use relevant hashtags

Hashtags are a great way to get your video seen by more people. Use a variety of hashtags that are relevant to your cover, such as #everlongcover, #guitarcover, and #musiccover.

4. Tag your friends

If you have any friends who are also musicians, tag them in your post. This will help get your video in front of a wider audience.

5. Share your video on multiple platforms

Don’t just post your video on one social media platform. Share it on as many platforms as possible to reach a wider audience.

6. Run a contest

Running a contest is a great way to generate excitement and engagement around your cover. Offer a prize to the person who creates the best cover of your song.

7. Collaborate with other musicians

Collaborating with other musicians is a great way to get your cover heard by more people. Reach out to other musicians in your area and see if they’re interested in collaborating on a cover of Everlong.

8. Get feedback from other musicians

Once you’ve recorded your cover, get feedback from other musicians. This will help you identify areas where you can improve your playing or singing.

9. Be patient

Promoting your cover on social media takes time. Don’t get discouraged if you don’t see immediate results. Keep posting your videos and engaging with your followers, and eventually you’ll start to see more people listening to your music.

10. Have fun!

Most importantly, have fun with it! Promoting your cover on social media should be a fun and enjoyable experience. Don’t take it too seriously, and enjoy the process of sharing your music with the world.

How to Play Everlong on Guitar

Learning the song “Everlong” by the Foo Fighters is a great way to develop your guitar playing skills, including fingerpicking and strumming techniques, along with the application of minor chords and scales.

Mastering these elements will not only help with the accuracy of the song’s performance but also enhance your overall guitar proficiency. So, if you’re ready to delve into this iconic tune, let’s explore the essential techniques and steps required to play “Everlong” on guitar.