How to Play Alter Bridge’s “Find the Real”

Alter Bridge, the American hard rock band, has been captivating audiences with their powerful melodies and heartfelt lyrics since their formation in 2004. One of their most notable songs is “Find the Real,” which showcases the band’s unique blend of alternative rock, metal, and blues. If you’re a fan of Alter Bridge and want to learn how to play this iconic track, here’s a step-by-step guide to help you get started.

1. Understand the Song Structure

Before diving into the guitar tabs and chords, it’s essential to familiarize yourself with the song’s structure. “Find the Real” follows a standard rock song format, with a verse-chorus structure. The song has four verses, two pre-choruses, and two choruses. Knowing this will help you follow the tabs and chords more effectively.

2. Learn the Chords

The key to playing “Find the Real” is understanding the chords and their transitions. The song is primarily in the key of A major. Here are the chords you’ll need to know:

– A major
– E minor
– D major
– F minor
– C minor
– B major

Make sure to practice these chords individually before attempting to play the song.

3. Practice the Rhythm

One of the defining aspects of “Find the Real” is its driving rhythm. To capture the essence of the song, you’ll need to practice the rhythm patterns. The verse rhythm is a simple strumming pattern, while the chorus features a more complex pattern that involves palm muting and alternate picking.

4. Play the Riff

The main riff of “Find the Real” is a staple of the song and is played during the intro, verses, and choruses. Here’s a simplified version of the riff:

– E minor: 5-7-8-10-7-5
– D major: 5-7-8-10-7-5

Practice this riff slowly and gradually increase your speed as you become more comfortable with it.

5. Incorporate the Pre-Chorus

The pre-chorus of “Find the Real” introduces a new chord progression and rhythm. This part requires you to switch between chords quickly and play a more syncopated rhythm. Here’s the chord progression:

– A major
– E minor
– D major
– F minor

Practice this section by focusing on the timing and transitions between chords.

6. Master the Chorus

The chorus of “Find the Real” is where the song truly shines. This section features a higher register and requires good control of your guitar technique. Here’s the chord progression:

– C minor
– B major
– A major
– E minor

Practice the chorus by focusing on maintaining the rhythm and transitioning smoothly between chords.

7. Practice the Song as a Whole

Once you’ve mastered the individual parts, it’s time to put the song together. Practice playing the song from start to finish, ensuring that the transitions between sections are smooth and the rhythm is consistent.

By following these steps, you’ll be well on your way to playing Alter Bridge’s “Find the Real.” Remember to practice regularly and don’t be afraid to experiment with your own style. Happy playing!