Rocksmith 2014 Custom - "Fade To Black" - Metallica

Introduction

This tutorial will guide you through learning "Fade To Black" by Metallica using Rocksmith 2014. We'll break down the song into manageable sections, focusing on key techniques and practice tips to help you master it. Whether you're a beginner or an experienced player, this guide aims to enhance your playing skills and make the learning process smooth.

Step 1: Familiarize Yourself with the Song Structure

Before diving into practice, understand the overall structure of "Fade To Black".

• Listen to the Song: Play the original track to get an idea of the melody, rhythm, and dynamics.
• Identify Sections: Break the song down into parts:
  • Intro
  • Verses
  • Chorus
  • Solo
  • Outro
• Focus Areas: Pay special attention to the intro and the ending of the solo, as mentioned in the video.

Step 2: Practice the Intro

The intro is crucial for setting the tone of the song.

• Learn the Chords: Familiarize yourself with the chord shapes used in the intro.
• Slow Practice: Start at a slower tempo to ensure accuracy:
  • Use a metronome to keep time.
  • Focus on finger positioning and transitions.
• Repetition: Repeat the intro several times until you feel comfortable.

Step 3: Master the Verses

Once you’ve nailed the intro, move on to the verses.

• Break it Down: Tackle one line at a time.
• Use Tabs: Find guitar tabs online for visual guidance.
• Play Along: Use Rocksmith to play along with the track, adjusting the difficulty level as needed.
• Record Yourself: Listening to your play can help identify areas for improvement.

Step 4: Tackle the Chorus

The chorus is often the most recognizable part of the song.

• Identify Key Changes: Notice any shifts in dynamics or tempo.
• Practice with a Backing Track: This helps in getting used to playing with other instruments.
• Focus on Timing: Ensure your strumming matches the rhythm of the original song.

Step 5: Focus on the Solo

The solo can be challenging, but practice makes perfect.

• Slow it Down: Start by playing it at a reduced speed.
• Use the Guitar's Features: If using Rocksmith, utilize the "Riff Repeater" feature to isolate and practice difficult sections.
• Work on Techniques: Focus on techniques like bends, slides, and hammer-ons that are prevalent in the solo.

Step 6: Practice the Outro

Finally, work on the outro, which often ties the song together.

• Revisit Key Themes: You may encounter themes from the intro or verses.
• Combine Sections: Try playing the outro together with the preceding sections to get a feel for the transition.
• Final Touches: Add your personal flair or dynamics to make it sound unique.

Conclusion

By following these steps, you can effectively learn "Fade To Black" in Rocksmith 2014. Focus on each section individually, practice regularly, and don’t rush the learning process. Remember, consistency is key to mastering any song. Enjoy your practice sessions and celebrate your progress along the way!