1. How To Play Smoke On The Water - Easy Guitar Lesson

Prepare to embark on a musical journey as we delve into the iconic riff of “Smoke on the Water,” an anthem of hard rock and heavy metal. Its instantly recognizable melody has captivated generations, transcending its original context and becoming a cornerstone of guitar culture. Whether you’re a seasoned shredder or just starting to strum, this guide will take you through the steps necessary to master this legendary piece and let the sound of your guitar reverberate with the essence of Deep Purple.

The opening notes of “Smoke on the Water” are etched into the annals of rock history. Its distinctive descending chromatic scale has become synonymous with the song, creating a sense of foreboding and intrigue. To nail this intro, start by placing your index finger on the D string, 5th fret, and your pinky on the G string, 7th fret. From there, let your fingers flow down the strings in succession, hitting the A string, 5th fret; the D string, 3rd fret; the G string, 4th fret; the B string, 3rd fret; and finally, the high E string, 2nd fret. Once you’ve mastered the chromatic descent, you’re ready to add the power chords that provide the backbone of the riff.

Power chords, composed of the root and fifth notes of a scale, are the driving force behind “Smoke on the Water.” To play the first chord, position your index finger on the A string, 5th fret, and your ring finger on the D string, 7th fret. Strike both strings simultaneously to create a resonant A5 power chord. The next chord, a D5, follows a similar pattern: place your index finger on the D string, 5th fret, and your ring finger on the A string, 7th fret. As you alternate between these power chords, you’ll create the pulsating rhythm that’s the signature of this classic rock anthem.

Understanding the Basic Notes and Rhythm

Smoke On The Water is a classic rock song known for its catchy opening riff that’s relatively simple to play if you break it down into its individual components.

The riff consists of alternating between three basic notes: the root note, the minor third, and the perfect fifth. On the guitar, these notes are:

Note	String	Fret
Root	Low E	0
Minor third	A	2
Perfect fifth	D	2

The rhythm of the riff is straightforward, consisting of a series of eighth notes and quarter notes. The eighth notes are quick, hammering strum, while the quarter notes are played with slightly more emphasis. The following table illustrates the rhythm:

Beat	Note
1	Root
2	Minor third
3	Perfect fifth
4	Perfect fifth
5	Minor third
6	Root
7	Rest
8	Root

Positioning Your Fingers on the Fretboard

The proper positioning of your fingers on the fretboard is crucial for playing “Smoke on the Water” accurately and efficiently. Here’s a step-by-step guide to help you get it right:

1. Index Finger on the First Fret

Place your left-hand index finger on the first fret of the low E string (the thickest string).

2. Determining Proper Finger Placement

Ensure that your finger is pressed down firmly behind the metal fret, not on the fret itself. This will create a clear and sustained note. Avoid pressing too hard, as it can hinder your ability to slide your fingers smoothly across the fretboard.

To check if your finger is placed correctly, lightly press down on the string behind your finger. There should be no buzzing or muted sound. The note should sustain cleanly and clearly.

Incorrect Finger Placement	Correct Finger Placement

3. Middle and Pinky Fingers

Once your index finger is in place, position your middle finger on the second fret and your pinky finger on the third fret of the A string (the second thickest string). Follow the same principles of proper finger placement as described above.

Playing the Riff in 4/4 Time

The Smoke On The Water riff is played in 4/4 time, meaning there are four beats per measure and the quarter note gets the beat. To play the riff, start by placing your index finger on the 12th fret of the low E string, your middle finger on the 13th fret of the A string, and your ring finger on the 14th fret of the D string. Strum down on all three strings and then pull off with your index finger so that only the A and D strings are ringing. Next, place your index finger back on the 12th fret of the low E string and strum down again. Finally, pull off with your middle finger so that only the D string is ringing. Repeat this pattern for the entire riff.

Playing the Riff with Power Chords

To play the riff with power chords, simply strum the root note and the fifth of the chord. For example, to play the A power chord, strum the A string at the 5th fret and the D string at the 7th fret. To play the D power chord, strum the D string at the 5th fret and the A string at the 7th fret. You can also play the riff with barre chords, but this is a more advanced technique.

Here is a table summarizing the notes and chords used in the Smoke On The Water riff:

Note	String	Fret
A	E	12
D	A	13
E	D	14
A power chord	E	5
	D	7
D power chord	D	5
	A	7

Mastering the Pull-Off Technique

The pull-off is a fundamental guitar technique that plays a key role in “Smoke on the Water.” To execute a pull-off:

Place your finger on the fret (e.g., the 5th fret on the D string).
Pluck the string with the other hand.
While the string is still ringing, quickly lift your finger off the fret.
The sudden release of tension creates a “pop” sound as the string leaps to the next open fret (e.g., the 3rd fret on the D string).

The key to a successful pull-off is the timing and coordination between your plucking and fingerlifting. It takes practice to develop the dexterity and muscle memory necessary. Here are some tips to enhance your technique:

Tip	Description
Start slowly	Practice at a comfortable pace to get a feel for the motion.
Practice regularly	Consistent practice is crucial to improving your timing and accuracy.
Use a metronome	A metronome helps you maintain a steady rhythm and isolate the pull-off movement.

Mastering the pull-off technique will open up a world of possibilities on the guitar, including playing “Smoke on the Water” with ease and proficiency.

Coordinating Your Strumming and Picking

The secret to mastering Smoke on the Water lies in coordinating your strumming and picking seamlessly. Here’s a step-by-step guide:

1. Downstrokes and Upstrokes

Start by strumming downstrokes on the low E string. Once you have a consistent rhythm, add upstrokes on the A string.

2. Mute Your Palm

Use your picking hand’s palm to mute the higher strings when playing downstrokes. This will create a percussive sound and emphasize the bass notes.

3. Use Fingerpicks or a Pick

For the iconic picking pattern, either use fingerpicks or a pick with a beveled edge. This will allow you to pick cleanly and accurately.

4. Start with Open Strings

Practice picking the open E and A strings first. This will help you develop coordination and accuracy.

5. The Picking Pattern

The picking pattern for Smoke on the Water consists of:

Downstroke (low E)	Upstroke (A)	Pick	Pick	Pick	Pick
1	2	1	2	1	2

Note that the picking is done on the bass notes (low E) for the first two strums and then on the higher strings for the final four.

Adding Vibrato and Bending

Vibrato is a technique that involves oscillating the pitch of a note to add depth and emotion. To add vibrato to Smoke On The Water, gently shake your finger back and forth on the fret while you’re holding the note. The wider the back-and-forth motion, the more pronounced the vibrato.

Bending is another technique that involves temporarily raising or lowering the pitch of a note. For the bends in Smoke On The Water, you’ll need to use your picking hand to pull the string up or down while you’re fretting the note. The technique is a subtle movement, so start by bending the string slightly and gradually increase the movement until you get the desired effect.

Mastering the Bend

Bending is a crucial technique in Smoke On The Water. Here’s a detailed breakdown of how to execute the bends accurately:

Note	Bend
4th string, 5th fret (A)	Bend up to the 7th fret (C)
4th string, 7th fret (C)	Bend down to the 5th fret (A)
5th string, 5th fret (D)	Bend up to the 7th fret (F)
5th string, 7th fret (F)	Bend down to the 5th fret (D)

Practice these bends slowly and gradually increase the speed as you gain comfort. Pay attention to the pitch of the string and adjust your bending accordingly. Master these bends, and you’ll be able to accurately play the signature riff of Smoke On The Water.

Variations and Embellishments

Chords and Chord Voicings

The original chord progression of Smoke on the Water can be played in various voicings. Experiment with different inversions and arpeggiation techniques to add texture and interest.

Extended Chords

Add harmonic depth by incorporating extended chords like 7ths, 9ths, and 11ths into the progression. For instance, try replacing the G chord with Gmaj7.

Suspensions

Create tension and release by using suspended chords, such as Gsus4 or Asus2, before resolving them to the original chord.

Hammer-On and Pull-Offs

Add rhythmic interest and articulation by incorporating hammer-ons and pull-offs. For example, play the first note of the G chord (3rd fret, 6th string) by hammering it from the open 5th string.

Vibrato and Bending

Use vibrato and string bending to add expression and nuance to your playing. Experiment with varying the intensity and speed of your vibrato and bending different notes to create unique sounds.

Octave Displacement

Displace the root of a chord to a higher octave to introduce a sense of spaciousness and airiness. For example, play the root note of the G chord on the 5th fret of the 5th string instead of the 3rd fret of the 6th string.

Filling the Space

Add embellishments like fills, riffs, and runs to fill the gaps between chords. This can help maintain interest and provide a sense of continuity.

Tips for Playing with Accuracy

To master the iconic intro riff, it’s crucial to maintain precision. Here are some detailed tips:

1. Slow Down and Focus: Begin by practicing slowly, focusing on hitting each note cleanly.

2. Finger Placement: Use your index finger for the hammer-on and your middle finger for the pull-off. Position your thumb behind the neck for stability.

3. Anchor Your Hand: Rest your picking hand on the bridge or body of the guitar for a steady foundation.

4. Mute Excess Strings: Use your palm or fingertips to lightly mute any adjacent strings that you’re not playing.

5. Control Your Picking: Choose a comfortable picking style, either alternate or downstrokes, and maintain a consistent tempo.

6. Use a Metronome: Practice with a metronome to develop a precise sense of timing.

7. Practice Finger Independence: Focus on isolating the hammer-on and pull-off finger movements to gain control.

8. Extended Practice Table:

Exercise	Benefits
Practice the intro riff in sections:	Breaks the riff down into smaller, manageable chunks.
Focus on the hammer-on and pull-off notes:	Builds strength and accuracy in finger movements.
Use a mirror while playing:	Provides visual feedback to ensure correct hand and finger placement.

By implementing these tips, you can gradually improve your accuracy and master the iconic Smoke On The Water riff.

Practice Exercises and Techniques

Mastering “Smoke on the Water” requires consistent practice. The following exercises and techniques can help enhance your playing:

Finger Strength Building

Strengthening your fingers will improve your accuracy and endurance. Practice finger exercises using a chromatic scale or guitar chords.

Alternate Picking

Alternate picking involves using down and upstrokes consistently. This technique is crucial for the “Smoke on the Water” riff. Practice alternate picking with a metronome or online exercises.

Hand Coordination

Coordinating your left and right hands is essential for playing the riff smoothly. Practice fingerpicking and strumming while reading TAB or sheet music.

Metronome Practice

Using a metronome helps develop a steady rhythm and tempo. Start slowly and gradually increase the speed as you gain confidence.

Section Breakdowns

Break down the riff into smaller sections. Focus on mastering each section individually before putting them together.

Ear Training

Listen to the original recording of the riff and try to identify the notes and rhythms by ear. This will enhance your understanding and improve your playing.

Recording Your Practice

Record yourself playing the riff and listen back. This allows you to identify areas for improvement and track your progress.

Attending Guitar Lessons

Consider taking guitar lessons from an experienced instructor. They can provide personalized guidance and feedback to help you refine your playing.

Online Resources

There are numerous online tutorials, guitar tablature websites, and interactive guitar lessons that can provide additional support.

Additional Tips:

Tip	Description
Use a pick with a comfortable grip	Improves control and precision.
Rest your guitar properly	Provides stability and comfort during extended practice sessions.
Take breaks	Prevents fatigue and ensures consistent playing.
Listen to other guitarists	Gain inspiration and learn different techniques.

The Power Chords

When playing power chords, make sure to mute the strings that are not part of the chord. This will help to keep the sound clean and avoid any unwanted noise.

The Riffs

The riffs in “Smoke on the Water” are relatively easy to play, but they require some accuracy and timing. Practice slowly and gradually increase your speed as you become more comfortable.

The Solo

The solo in “Smoke on the Water” is one of the most iconic in rock history. It’s not too difficult to play, but it does require some practice to get the phrasing and dynamics right.

Troubleshooting Common Problems

1. The chords sound muddy

This is usually caused by not muting the strings that are not part of the chord. Make sure to press down on the strings with your fretting hand and only pluck the strings that are supposed to be played.

2. The riffs are not in time

This can be caused by rushing or dragging the notes. Practice slowly and gradually increase your speed as you become more comfortable.

3. The solo sounds choppy

This can be caused by not legatoing the notes. Legato is a technique where you play two or more notes on the same string without picking the string in between. Practice slurring the notes together to create a smooth, flowing sound.

4. My fingers hurt

Playing guitar can be tough on your fingers, especially if you’re a beginner. Take breaks as needed and practice for short periods of time until your fingers build up strength.

5. I can’t sing and play at the same time

This is a common problem for beginners. Start by practicing the song without singing, and then gradually add in the vocals as you become more comfortable.

6. My guitar is out of tune

Make sure to tune your guitar before you start playing. You can use a tuner or simply tune your guitar by ear.

7. I’m not sure how to strum the song

There are many different ways to strum “Smoke on the Water.” Experiment with different strumming patterns until you find one that you like.

8. I can’t play the fast parts

The fast parts in “Smoke on the Water” can be tricky to play. Practice them slowly and gradually increase your speed as you become more comfortable.

9. I don’t know how to play the slide guitar

The slide guitar is not necessary to play “Smoke on the Water,” but it can add a cool effect to the song. If you want to learn how to play slide guitar, there are many resources available online.

10. I’m still having problems

If you’re still having problems playing “Smoke on the Water,” don’t give up! Practice regularly and don’t be afraid to ask for help from a friend, teacher, or online forum.

Problem	Solution
The chords sound muddy	Mute the strings that are not part of the chord.
The riffs are not in time	Practice slowly and gradually increase your speed.
The solo sounds choppy	Practice legatoing the notes.
My fingers hurt	Take breaks as needed and practice for short periods of time.
I can’t sing and play at the same time	Practice the song without singing, and then gradually add in the vocals.
My guitar is out of tune	Tune your guitar before you start playing.
I’m not sure how to strum the song	Experiment with different strumming patterns until you find one that you like.
I can’t play the fast parts	Practice them slowly and gradually increase your speed.
I don’t know how to play the slide guitar	There are many resources available online to learn how to play slide guitar.
I’m still having problems	Practice regularly and don’t be afraid to ask for help.

How To Play Smoke On The Water

Smoke On The Water is a classic rock song by Deep Purple. It was released in 1973 and became a worldwide hit. The song is known for its distinctive guitar riff, which is one of the most recognizable in rock music.

If you want to learn how to play Smoke On The Water, the first thing you need to do is learn the guitar riff. The riff is played on the low E string, and it consists of a series of hammer-ons and pull-offs. Once you have mastered the riff, you can begin to learn the rest of the song.

The rest of the song is relatively simple to play. The chords are mostly power chords, and the strumming pattern is straightforward. The only tricky part is the solo, which is played by Ritchie Blackmore. The solo is mostly improvised, but there are a few licks that you can learn to get you started.

Once you have learned the riff, the chords, and the solo, you will be able to play Smoke On The Water. The song is a great way to practice your guitar skills, and it is sure to impress your friends.