Hey guys! Today, we're diving deep into a classic – "What You Give" by Tesla. This track is a fantastic example of Tesla's signature sound, blending catchy riffs with soulful melodies and, of course, Frank Hannon's and Dave Rude's incredible guitar work. Whether you're a seasoned guitarist or just starting, there's something to learn from this song. We'll break down the intro, verse, chorus, and solo sections, giving you the tools you need to play it like a pro. So, grab your guitar, tune up, and let's get started!

Understanding the Song Structure

Before we start shredding, let's understand the structure of "What You Give." The song generally follows a classic rock formula:

• Intro: An unforgettable guitar riff that immediately grabs your attention.
• Verse 1: Begins with smooth, clean guitars, creating a laid-back vibe.
• Chorus 1: The anthemic chorus kicks in with powerful chords and harmonized vocals.
• Verse 2: Continues the story with the same guitar arrangement as Verse 1.
• Chorus 2: Another round of the catchy chorus.
• Guitar Solo: A melodic and passionate solo that builds in intensity.
• Bridge: A dynamic shift that leads back to the chorus.
• Chorus 3: The final chorus, often repeated for emphasis.
• Outro: Fades out with the main riff or a variation of it.

Tuning and Gear

To play "What You Give" accurately, you'll need to be in standard tuning (E, A, D, G, B, e). Frank Hannon is known for his use of Les Paul guitars, often with a warm, slightly overdriven tone. Dave Rude typically plays a Fender Stratocaster, adding a brighter, more articulate sound to the mix. However, don't worry if you don't have those exact guitars. Any guitar with a decent humbucker or single-coil pickup will work just fine. As for amps, think Marshall or Mesa Boogie for that classic rock tone. A touch of reverb and delay can also enhance your sound, but don't overdo it – the focus should be on the guitar's natural tone. Having a good overdrive pedal can also get you closer to the tone if your amp alone can't get you there.

Breaking Down the Intro Riff

The intro riff of "What You Give" is instantly recognizable and sets the tone for the entire song. It's based around a simple yet effective chord progression, primarily using power chords and some clever fingerpicking. Let's break it down:

1. Start with an E5 power chord: Play E (7th fret on the A string) and B (9th fret on the D string). Strum these two notes together.
2. Move to a D5 power chord: Shift down two frets to D (5th fret on the A string) and A (7th fret on the D string). Strum these two notes.
3. Add a C5 power chord: Move down two more frets to C (3rd fret on the A string) and G (5th fret on the D string). Strum these two notes.
4. Finish with a G5 power chord: Play G (5th fret on the low E string) and D (7th fret on the A string). Strum these two notes.

The rhythm is crucial here. It's a driving, slightly syncopated feel that gives the riff its energy. Practice transitioning smoothly between these chords, focusing on keeping the rhythm consistent. Once you're comfortable with the chords, try adding some palm muting to give the riff a more aggressive edge. Palm muting involves resting the side of your picking hand lightly on the strings near the bridge, which dampens the sound and creates a percussive effect. The intro riff is a great example of how simple chords, when played with the right feel, can create a memorable and impactful musical statement.

Mastering the Verse Sections

The verse sections of "What You Give" feature a softer, more melodic guitar arrangement. The chords are primarily clean and arpeggiated, creating a gentle backdrop for Jeff Keith's vocals. Here's how to approach the verse sections:

1. Chord Voicings: The verse chords are often played using open voicings, which means incorporating open strings to create a fuller, more resonant sound. Common chords used in the verse include G, D, Em, and C. Experiment with different voicings to find what sounds best to you.
2. Arpeggiation: Instead of strumming the chords, try arpeggiating them. This involves picking the individual notes of the chord in a sequence. For example, for a G chord, you might pick the G string, then the B string, then the high E string, and then the D string. This technique adds a delicate, intricate texture to the verse.
3. Dynamics: Pay attention to the dynamics in the verse. The guitar should be relatively quiet, allowing the vocals to take center stage. Use your volume knob or your picking hand to control the volume and create a sense of subtlety. Don't be afraid to add some slight vibrato to your notes, which can add depth and emotion to your playing. Also, focus on clean transitions between chords, so that you can have the smooth transitions the song needs.

Conquering the Chorus

The chorus of "What You Give" is where the song really takes off. It's a powerful, anthemic section with big, open chords and soaring vocals. To nail the chorus, focus on these key elements:

1. Power Chords: The chorus relies heavily on power chords, similar to the intro riff but with a fuller, more aggressive sound. Common power chords in the chorus include E5, D5, C5, and G5. Make sure you're barring the chords cleanly and applying enough pressure to get a solid, clear tone.
2. Strumming Pattern: The strumming pattern in the chorus is typically a fast, downward strum with occasional upstrokes for emphasis. Experiment with different strumming patterns to find what feels most natural to you. You can also try adding some palm muting to create a more percussive, driving feel.
3. Harmonies: The chorus features layered vocal harmonies, which add depth and richness to the sound. While you can't replicate the vocal harmonies on guitar, you can try adding some harmonically rich voicings to your chords. For example, you can add a sus4 or a major 7th to your power chords to create a more complex, interesting sound.

Tackling the Guitar Solo

The guitar solo in "What You Give" is a highlight of the song, showcasing Frank Hannon's melodic and expressive playing style. The solo is a perfect blend of technical skill and emotional delivery, making it a joy to listen to and learn. Here are some tips for tackling the solo:

1. Scale and Key: The solo is primarily based in the key of E major. Familiarize yourself with the E major scale and its related pentatonic scales. These scales will provide the foundation for your improvisation.
2. Licks and Phrases: The solo is full of memorable licks and phrases. Start by learning these licks note-for-note. Pay attention to the phrasing, bending, and vibrato that Hannon uses to give the licks their character. Once you've mastered the licks, try incorporating them into your own playing.
3. Bending and Vibrato: Bending and vibrato are essential techniques for playing blues-based rock solos. Practice bending the strings accurately to the correct pitch. Experiment with different types of vibrato, such as finger vibrato and wrist vibrato, to find what works best for you.
4. Dynamics and Expression: The solo is not just about playing fast; it's about conveying emotion. Pay attention to the dynamics in the solo, using your volume knob or your picking hand to create a sense of ebb and flow. Don't be afraid to add your own personal touch to the solo. Experiment with different phrasing and note choices to make it your own.

Tips for Perfecting Your Performance

To truly master "What You Give," consider these additional tips:

• Practice with a Metronome: Using a metronome will help you develop solid timing and rhythm. Start at a slow tempo and gradually increase the speed as you become more comfortable.
• Record Yourself: Recording yourself playing can help you identify areas where you need to improve. Listen back critically and pay attention to your timing, tone, and accuracy.
• Play Along with the Original: Playing along with the original recording is a great way to internalize the feel and nuances of the song. Try to match Hannon's and Rude's playing as closely as possible.
• Break It Down: If you're struggling with a particular section, break it down into smaller parts. Practice each part slowly and deliberately until you've mastered it. Then, gradually piece the parts back together.
• Be Patient: Learning a new song takes time and effort. Don't get discouraged if you don't get it right away. Just keep practicing, and you'll eventually get there.

Final Thoughts

"What You Give" by Tesla is a fantastic song for guitarists of all levels. It's a great example of classic rock songwriting and features some excellent guitar playing. By breaking down the song into its individual sections and focusing on the key techniques, you can learn to play this song confidently and accurately. So, keep practicing, keep experimenting, and most importantly, have fun! Rock on, guys!