Hey guys! Today, we're diving deep into Limp Bizkit's iconic cover of "Behind Blue Eyes." If you're a fan of blending hard rock with vulnerable emotion, this track is a must-learn. We’ll explore the chords, tabs, and nuances that make this version so unique. Whether you're a beginner or an experienced guitarist, there's something here for everyone. So, grab your guitar, and let's get started!

Unveiling the Emotion: The Story Behind the Song

Before we jump into the chords and tabs, it’s super important to understand the soul of "Behind Blue Eyes." Originally penned by the legendary The Who, this song is a raw, emotional exploration of inner turmoil and hidden feelings. Pete Townshend, the genius behind The Who, intended it to be part of a larger rock opera called "Lifehouse," which, sadly, never fully materialized. The song captures the duality of a tough exterior masking deep vulnerability.

Limp Bizkit's decision to cover "Behind Blue Eyes" brought a fresh, nu-metal edge to the classic. Released in 2003 as part of their album "Results May Vary," the cover infused the original’s emotional weight with a contemporary rock sound. Fred Durst's vocals, combined with the band's signature heavy guitars and turntables, created a rendition that resonated with a new generation while honoring the original’s essence. This cover isn't just a musical performance; it’s a reinterpretation that bridges different eras and genres. By understanding the song's history and Limp Bizkit's unique take, you’ll be better equipped to capture the emotional depth in your own playing. Think about how the lyrics speak to hidden pain and the struggle to maintain appearances. This understanding will inform your interpretation and make your performance more authentic.

Decoding the Chords: A Step-by-Step Guide

Okay, let's break down the chords for Limp Bizkit's version of "Behind Blue Eyes." The song primarily revolves around a few key chords, making it relatively accessible for guitarists of all levels. The main chords you'll need to know are:

• Em (E minor): 022000
• C (C major): x32010
• G (G major): 320003
• D (D major): xx0232
• Am (A minor): x02210

These chords form the backbone of the song, and you'll find them repeated throughout different sections. Now, let’s look at how these chords are used in the verse, chorus, and bridge.

Verse

The verse mainly uses a simple progression of Em - C - G - D. This sequence creates a melancholic and reflective mood, perfectly matching the introspective lyrics. Practice transitioning smoothly between these chords to maintain the song's flow. Pay close attention to your strumming pattern; a gentle, arpeggiated style can enhance the emotional impact.

Chorus

The chorus picks up intensity with a slightly altered progression: C - G - D - Em. This change adds a layer of urgency and passion to the song. Focus on making your chord changes crisp and clean to deliver the chorus with the power it deserves. Consider using power chords for a heavier sound, especially if you want to emulate Limp Bizkit's rock edge.

Bridge

The bridge introduces a new chord, Am, adding a touch of vulnerability to the mix. The progression here is Am - C - G - D, which builds tension and leads back into the chorus. This section requires a delicate touch, so make sure your chord voicings are clear and that you maintain a consistent rhythm. Experiment with adding subtle variations in your strumming to bring out the emotional nuances of the bridge.

Understanding these chord progressions is the first step in mastering the song. Practice each section individually before putting it all together. Remember, the key is to play with feeling and to let the emotion of the song guide your performance. With a little patience and dedication, you’ll be nailing these chords in no time!

Taming the Tabs: Riffs and Melodies Explained

Alright, now let's dive into the tablature! Understanding the riffs and melodies is crucial for capturing the essence of Limp Bizkit's version of "Behind Blue Eyes." We'll break down the main guitar parts, focusing on the intro, verse, and chorus sections.

Intro

The intro features a distinctive guitar riff that sets the tone for the entire song. The tab for this riff generally looks something like this (simplified):

e|------------------------------------------------|
B|------------------------------------------------|
G|------------------------------------------------|
D|---2-2-2-2-2-2-2-2---0-0-0-0-0-0-0-0------------|
A|---2-2-2-2-2-2-2-2---2-2-2-2-2-2-2-2------------|
E|---0-0-0-0-0-0-0-0---3-3-3-3-3-3-3-3------------|

This riff combines power chords with melodic lines, creating a blend of aggression and emotion. Pay attention to the rhythm and timing to nail the feel of the intro. Practice this riff slowly at first, gradually increasing your speed as you become more comfortable. Focus on maintaining a consistent tone and attack on each note to ensure clarity and precision.

Verse

During the verse, the guitar provides a subtle yet essential backdrop to Fred Durst's vocals. The tabs here mainly follow the chord progressions we discussed earlier. You might find variations that include arpeggiated patterns or simple melodic lines. For example:

e|---0---0---0---0---3---3---3---3---|
B|---0---0---1---1---0---0---0---0---|
G|---0---0---0---0---0---0---0---0---|
D|---2---2---2---2---0---0---2---2---|
A|---2---2---3---3---2---2---2---2---|
E|---0---0---x---x---3---3---0---0---|

These patterns add texture and depth to the song. Experiment with different fingerpicking styles to find what works best for you. Focus on creating a smooth and flowing sound that complements the vocals. Also, be mindful of dynamics; vary your playing intensity to match the emotional peaks and valleys of the lyrics.

Chorus

The chorus is where the guitar parts become more prominent and energetic. You'll typically find power chords and more aggressive strumming patterns here. A common tab for the chorus might look like this:

e|------------------------------------------------|
B|------------------------------------------------|
G|---5-5-5-5---7-7-7-7---9-9-9-9---2-2-2-2--------|
D|---5-5-5-5---7-7-7-7---9-9-9-9---2-2-2-2--------|
A|---3-3-3-3---5-5-5-5---7-7-7-7---0-0-0-0--------|
E|------------------------------------------------|

This section is all about power and intensity. Use downstrokes for a heavier sound and make sure your chords ring out clearly. Practice transitioning quickly between chords to maintain the energy of the chorus. Consider adding some palm-muting to create a tighter, more controlled sound. The key here is to play with confidence and aggression, channeling the raw emotion of the song.

By mastering these tabs, you'll be well on your way to playing Limp Bizkit's version of "Behind Blue Eyes" with authenticity and flair. Remember to practice each section slowly and deliberately, gradually increasing your speed as you improve. And most importantly, have fun and let your own style shine through!

Essential Techniques: Mastering the Nuances

To truly nail Limp Bizkit's rendition of "Behind Blue Eyes," it's not enough to just know the chords and tabs. You need to master some key techniques that give the song its distinctive sound. Let’s explore some of these essential techniques:

Strumming Patterns

The strumming patterns in this song vary between gentle and aggressive, depending on the section. During the verses, a softer, more arpeggiated strumming style is appropriate. This involves picking individual strings or small groups of strings rather than strumming all the strings at once. This technique adds a delicate and intimate feel to the music. In contrast, the choruses call for more forceful, full-chord strums. Use downstrokes to create a powerful and driving rhythm. Varying your strumming patterns will add depth and dynamics to your performance.

Palm Muting

Palm muting is a technique where you rest the side of your palm lightly on the strings near the bridge of the guitar. This dampens the strings, creating a chunkier, more percussive sound. Palm muting is especially effective during the heavier sections of the song, such as the choruses and bridge. It adds a layer of aggression and control to your playing. Experiment with different amounts of pressure to find the right balance between muting and sustain. Palm muting can transform a simple chord progression into a powerful, driving riff.

Slides and Hammer-Ons

Adding slides and hammer-ons can enhance the melodic interest of the song. A slide involves sliding your finger from one fret to another, creating a smooth transition between notes. A hammer-on involves striking a string with a finger on your fretting hand, causing the note to sound without picking. Both techniques can add flair and expression to your playing. Incorporate these techniques sparingly to highlight key moments in the song and to add your personal touch. Practice these techniques slowly at first, gradually increasing your speed as you become more comfortable.

Effects and Tone

Recreating Limp Bizkit's guitar tone involves using effects such as distortion, chorus, and delay. Experiment with different settings on your amplifier and effects pedals to find a sound that matches the song's vibe. A moderate amount of distortion will add warmth and sustain to your tone, while a touch of chorus can create a lush, shimmering effect. Delay can be used to add depth and dimension to your solos and lead lines. Pay attention to the overall mix and make sure your guitar tone complements the other instruments in the band. A well-crafted guitar tone can make a huge difference in the overall impact of your performance.

Final Thoughts: Making It Your Own

So there you have it, guys! A comprehensive guide to playing Limp Bizkit's version of "Behind Blue Eyes." By understanding the song's history, mastering the chords and tabs, and incorporating essential techniques, you'll be well on your way to delivering a killer performance. Remember, the most important thing is to make the song your own. Experiment with different interpretations, add your personal touches, and let your creativity shine through. Whether you're playing for yourself or for an audience, have fun and enjoy the journey! Rock on!