Under the Bridge [1/3]

Learn How to Play "Under the Bridge" by RHCP on Guitar

In this lesson, we'll learn how to play Under the Bridge on the guitar. This song has been heavily requested on my site's forum, and for good reason—it's an absolute classic! I remember spending hours learning it when it first came out, and I'm thrilled that we'll have the opportunity to go through it together.

Today, we'll focus on the intro. After you're comfortable with it, check out Part 2 and Part 3 of this lesson to see the verses and the chorus.

 

Playing the Intro

The intro, which includes some beautiful fingerstyle work, starts with a D chord that looks a bit funny because it's a C-shaped barre chord, but it is actually a D chord. Then, we move to the F# major barre chord.

 

👉 Need help with barre chords? Check out this lesson.

 

Start by plucking the strings with your thumb and fingers for the fingerstyle, creating a soft and intricate sound. Then, add in some scale runs and slides to transition between chords.

 

Tips for Playing Under the Bridge

Fingerstyle Technique: This song relies heavily on fingerstyle playing, so take your time to get comfortable with using your thumb and fingers. Practice plucking the strings softly and evenly to create a smooth sound.

 

👉 For lessons on fingerstyle, click here.

 

Transitions and Slides: The transitions between chords and the little slides and scale runs are what make this song unique. Spend some time practicing these transitions to ensure they are smooth and seamless.

Feel and Emotion: Under the Bridge is a song full of emotion. Try to capture that feeling in your playing by adding dynamics and expression to the chords and fingerstyle patterns.

 

Final Thoughts

I hope you have fun with the intro and are excited to dive into the rest of the song. Remember, practice makes permanent. The more you play, the more comfortable you'll become with the fingerstyle technique and chord transitions.

Watch the video to get a better sense of the finger placement and strumming patterns. Seeing it in action can really help you understand how to play the song more effectively. And don't forget to continue learning this song in Part 2 and Part 3 of this lesson.

 

💡 Get verified chords, lyrics, and tabs for "Under the Bridge" and loads of other song lessons! Try out JustinGuitar Tabs for free!