Hey guys! Ever wanted to shred like Lenny Kravitz on "Are You Gonna Go My Way"? This iconic rock anthem is a blast to play on guitar, and we're here to break down the chords and tabs so you can nail it. Whether you're a beginner or a seasoned guitarist, this guide will help you learn the song's structure, chord progressions, and some cool riffs to impress your friends. So, grab your guitar, tune up, and let's dive into this rock 'n' roll masterpiece!

Intro: Getting Started with the Iconic Riff

The intro to "Are You Gonna Go My Way" is instantly recognizable. It's a powerful, driving riff that sets the tone for the entire song. To get started, you'll want to focus on the following tab:

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

This riff is based around power chords, which are relatively easy to play. The main chords you'll be using here are E5, A5, and D5. Focus on getting a clean, crisp sound by muting the strings you're not playing. Practice this riff slowly at first, gradually increasing your speed as you become more comfortable. Pay close attention to the rhythm; it's what gives the riff its infectious groove. Once you've mastered the basic riff, you can start adding some variations, such as slides or hammer-ons, to make it your own. Remember, the key to playing this riff well is to keep it tight and punchy. So keep practicing, and you'll be rocking out in no time!

Mastering the Verse Chords

The verse of "Are You Gonna Go My Way" features a chord progression that's both catchy and dynamic. The primary chords you'll be using are E, G, A, and C. These chords create a foundation for Lenny Kravitz's vocals and allow the song to build momentum. Here’s a breakdown:

• E Major: This is your starting point. A full-sounding E major chord provides a strong, grounded feel.
• G Major: Moving to G adds a touch of brightness and creates a nice contrast with the E.
• A Major: This chord brings in a sense of anticipation, leading towards the resolution.
• C Major: The C chord offers a brief moment of calm before building back up to the energy of the E.

When playing these chords, focus on smooth transitions. Practice moving between them fluidly so that the progression sounds seamless. Strumming patterns can vary, but a common approach is to use a steady down-up strum with emphasis on the downbeats. Feel free to experiment with different strumming patterns to find what works best for you. Additionally, pay attention to your finger placement. Ensure that each chord is clean and clear, with no buzzing or muted strings. Over time, with consistent practice, you'll develop the muscle memory needed to play these chords effortlessly. And don't be afraid to add your own flair! Try incorporating embellishments or variations to make the verse your own.

Chorus: Unleashing the Power

The chorus of "Are You Gonna Go My Way" is where the song truly explodes with energy. It's driven by a combination of powerful chords and Lenny Kravitz's impassioned vocals. The main chords you'll encounter in the chorus are E, D, and A. These chords, when played with the right intensity, create a sound that's both anthemic and irresistible.

To capture the essence of the chorus, focus on playing these chords with full force. Use strong, deliberate strums and let the chords ring out. The transition from E to D should be smooth but impactful, and the move to A should feel like a release of energy. Experiment with different strumming patterns to find one that complements the song's rhythm and your playing style. For example, try incorporating power chords to add extra punch. Don't be afraid to dig in and really attack the strings – this is where you want to unleash your inner rock star! Additionally, pay attention to the dynamics of the chorus. Build up the intensity as you progress through each repetition, and don't be afraid to add vocal harmonies if you're playing with others. With practice and passion, you'll be able to deliver a chorus that's as electrifying as the original.

Solo: Time to Shine

The guitar solo in "Are You Gonna Go My Way" is a blues-rock masterpiece, filled with fiery licks and soulful bends. While replicating every note of the solo can be challenging, understanding the underlying scales and techniques will help you create your own impressive rendition. The solo primarily revolves around the E minor pentatonic scale and the E blues scale. These scales provide a foundation for many of the licks and riffs in the solo.

To start, familiarize yourself with the E minor pentatonic scale:

e|-----------------------------------------------------------------5-8-|
B|---------------------------------------------------------5-8---------|
G|-------------------------------------------------5-7-----------------|
D|-----------------------------------------5-7-------------------------|
A|---------------------------------5-7---------------------------------|
E|-0-3-5--------------------------------------------------------------|

And the E blues scale:

e|-----------------------------------------------------------------6-8-|
B|---------------------------------------------------------5-8---------|
G|-------------------------------------------------5-7-----------------|
D|-----------------------------------------5-7-------------------------|
A|---------------------------------5-7---------------------------------|
E|-0-3-5-6--------------------------------------------------------------|

Practice these scales up and down the neck, paying attention to the intervals and the way the notes sound together. Once you're comfortable with the scales, you can start incorporating them into your soloing. Experiment with bending notes, sliding between positions, and using vibrato to add expression. Additionally, listen closely to the original solo and try to identify some of the key licks and phrases. Don't be afraid to borrow ideas from the original but also try to put your own spin on them. Remember, the goal is not to replicate the solo exactly but to capture its spirit and energy. With practice and creativity, you can create a solo that's both impressive and uniquely your own.

Bridge: A Moment of Reflection

The bridge section of "Are You Gonna Go My Way" provides a brief change of pace, offering a moment of reflection before the song builds back up to its explosive energy. This section typically features a different chord progression and a more subdued dynamic, creating a sense of contrast with the rest of the song. While the exact chords used in the bridge may vary depending on the arrangement, common choices include B, C#m, and E. These chords create a harmonic landscape that's both interesting and emotionally resonant.

When playing the bridge, focus on creating a smooth and flowing sound. Use gentle strumming patterns and pay attention to the dynamics of the music. Allow the chords to breathe and don't rush the transitions. This is a chance to add some subtlety and nuance to your playing. Experiment with different voicings and inversions of the chords to create a richer and more textured sound. Additionally, consider adding some simple embellishments or fills to add interest. However, be careful not to overplay – the goal is to create a sense of contrast, not to overshadow the rest of the song. By approaching the bridge with sensitivity and attention to detail, you can create a moment of musical magic that enhances the overall impact of the song.

Outro: Finishing Strong

The outro of "Are You Gonna Go My Way" is your final chance to leave a lasting impression. It's a powerful and energetic conclusion that should bring the song to a satisfying close. Typically, the outro will revisit some of the main themes and riffs from earlier in the song, but with an added sense of urgency and intensity. You might hear variations of the intro riff, the chorus chords, or even a final burst of soloing. The key is to play with confidence and conviction, giving it your all until the very last note.

To make the outro truly memorable, focus on dynamics and energy. Build up the intensity as you progress, adding more power and aggression to your playing. Use strong, deliberate strums and let the chords ring out. If there's a solo section, don't hold back – let your fingers fly and give it everything you've got. Additionally, pay attention to the rhythm and timing. Keep the tempo steady and maintain a strong groove, ensuring that the outro feels both tight and explosive. And don't forget to have fun! This is your chance to let loose and rock out one last time. By approaching the outro with enthusiasm and commitment, you can create a conclusion that's both satisfying and unforgettable.