How to Play Alter Bridge’s “Watch Over You”
Alter Bridge, the American hard rock band, has been captivating audiences with their powerful and emotional music since their formation in 2004. One of their most iconic songs, “Watch Over You,” has become a staple in the band’s discography. If you’re a fan of Alter Bridge and want to learn how to play this hit song, you’ve come to the right place. In this article, we will guide you through the essential guitar chords, rhythm, and techniques needed to play “Watch Over You” like the pros.
1. Understanding the Song Structure
“Watch Over You” follows a classic rock structure, with a verse-chorus-bridge-chorus arrangement. The song is known for its catchy guitar riffs and soulful vocals. Before diving into the guitar parts, it’s crucial to familiarize yourself with the song’s structure and the key changes that occur throughout.
2. Learning the Guitar Chords
The guitar chords in “Watch Over You” are relatively simple, making it accessible for beginners. Here’s a breakdown of the chords used in the song:
- Verse: E, A, D, E
- Chorus: G, C, D, E
- Bridge: A, D, E, A
Practice these chords slowly and pay attention to the finger placement. It’s essential to get a comfortable grip on each chord before moving on to the next step.
3. Playing the Rhythm Guitar
The rhythm guitar in “Watch Over You” is straightforward, with a steady and driving rhythm. To play the rhythm parts, you’ll need to alternate between the chords we discussed earlier. Here’s a basic guide to help you get started:
- Verse: Play the E chord for two beats, then switch to the A chord for two beats. Repeat this pattern for the entire verse.
- Chorus: Play the G chord for two beats, switch to the C chord for two beats, then play the D chord for two beats. Repeat this pattern for the entire chorus.
- Bridge: Play the A chord for two beats, switch to the D chord for two beats, then play the E chord for two beats. Repeat this pattern for the entire bridge.
Remember to keep a steady tempo and focus on the timing of the chords. You can use a metronome to help you maintain a consistent rhythm.
4. Mastering the Lead Guitar
The lead guitar parts in “Watch Over You” are relatively simple and consist of a few riffs and solos. To play the lead guitar, you’ll need to familiarize yourself with the following techniques:
- Power Chords: These are simple two-note chords that create a powerful and driving sound. Learn how to play the power chords used in the song.
- Palm Muting: This technique involves muting the strings with your palm to create a thumping sound. Practice palm muting while playing the power chords.
- Hammer-ons and Pull-offs: These techniques involve quickly moving from one fret to another without lifting your finger off the string. Learn how to incorporate hammer-ons and pull-offs into your lead guitar parts.
5. Practice and Perfection
Like any skill, playing “Watch Over You” by Alter Bridge requires practice and dedication. Spend time mastering the chords, rhythm, and lead guitar parts, and don’t be afraid to experiment with different techniques. As you become more comfortable with the song, you can add your own flair and style to it.
By following these steps and dedicating yourself to practice, you’ll be well on your way to playing “Watch Over You” like an Alter Bridge fan. Enjoy the journey and happy rockin’!
