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Let’s play this acoustic hit! Nirvana originally recorded an electric version on their debut album Bleach, but the acoustic version from their “MTV Unplugged” performance became even more popular. It’s a great example of the way many songs can be re-interpreted to create something new. By swapping a big rock-band sound for acoustic instruments, they created a more intimate feel and a whole new life for the song.
“About a Girl”, made famous by Nirvana, is now available in Yousician for Guitar, Bass, and Singing.
About a Girl for Guitar
by: James Neilson, Music Education Designer for Guitar
In the basic riff exercise (level 2) you’ll play along with the basic riff of the song, using notes on the big E-string and A-string. It’s all in 2nd position, meaning the index finger takes care of fret 2, middle finger plays fret 3, and ring finger plays fret 4. Start slow if needed, and have fun!
In the melody exercise (level 5) you’ll play the main vocal and instrumental melodies of the song. There are some position shifts to look out for, as well as hammer-ons and pull-offs. Start slow and practice section by section – once you’ve learned e.g. the first verse, you’ll be able to play the other verses.
In the main rhythm exercise (level 5) you’ll play a slightly simplified version of the original rhythm guitar part, using cowboy chords and power chords. It can be tricky to switch between strumming cowboy chords vs playing riffs, but it’s a common technique, and this is a great chance to practice.
In the full rhythm & lead exercise (level 7) you’ll play the original rhythm & lead guitar parts, including basic cowboy chords, some interesting movable chords in the chorus, and a brief solo using some legato and small chord shapes. Notice that the solo is just the same 2-bar phrase repeated 4 times, so it should be fairly quick to learn once you get it under your fingers.
About a Girl for Bass
by: Antti Halmetoja, Bass content specialist
In the basic bassline exercise (level 2) you’ll follow the basic chord progression of this great grunge rock song.
The full bassline exercise (level 5) has the original bassline as played in the live recording. If you want to train playing with a pick, this is a great song for that! Watch out especially for the high notes on the verse riff.