Franklin Dean
Playing Besitos by Pierce the Veil on guitar is an exciting challenge for both beginner and intermediate guitarists. This song, known for its catchy riffs and emotional melody, primarily revolves around a few key chords and a memorable fingerpicking pattern. To start, familiarize yourself with the tuning, which is typically standard E (EADGBE), and practice the chord progression, which includes D minor, A minor, G, and C. The intro and verses feature a delicate fingerpicking technique, so focus on precision and timing. The chorus introduces power chords and strumming, adding dynamic contrast. Additionally, pay attention to the song’s tempo and use a metronome to maintain consistency. With patience and practice, you’ll be able to capture the essence of Besitos and bring its beautiful melody to life on your guitar.
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What You'll Learn
- Chord Progression Basics: Learn the main chords and their sequence in Besitos
- Strumming Pattern Guide: Master the rhythmic strumming pattern for the song
- Riff Breakdown: Analyze and practice the signature guitar riffs
- Solo Techniques: Tackle the solo with step-by-step finger placement
- Tuning & Setup: Ensure your guitar is tuned and set up correctly
Chord Progression Basics: Learn the main chords and their sequence in Besitos
The chord progression in Pierce the Veil's "Besitos" is a captivating blend of simplicity and emotion, making it an excellent study for guitarists looking to understand how basic chords can create a powerful impact. At its core, the song revolves around a few key chords that repeat in a sequence designed to evoke the song's moody and introspective vibe. By breaking down these chords and their arrangement, you can not only master "Besitos" but also gain insight into crafting compelling progressions in your own playing.
Analyzing the structure, the main chords in "Besitos" are typically E minor (Em), C major (C), G major (G), and D major (D). These chords are staples in many genres, but their arrangement here is what gives the song its distinctive feel. The progression often follows a pattern like Em – C – G – D, which is a variation of the classic I-IV-V structure but in a minor key. This sequence is repeated throughout the song, with slight variations in rhythm and strumming patterns to maintain interest. For beginners, focusing on clean transitions between these chords is crucial, as the song’s emotional weight relies heavily on smooth, deliberate changes.
Instructively, start by practicing each chord individually until you can switch between them without hesitation. Use a metronome to ensure your transitions are timed correctly, as the song’s tempo is steady and deliberate. Once you’re comfortable with the chords, experiment with different strumming patterns to match the song’s dynamics. For instance, a softer, more muted strum during the verses can contrast with a fuller, more open strum in the chorus, mirroring the song’s emotional shifts. Remember, the goal isn’t just to play the chords but to feel the rhythm and mood they create.
Comparatively, the chord progression in "Besitos" shares similarities with other emo and alternative rock songs, which often rely on minor chords to convey a sense of melancholy. However, what sets "Besitos" apart is its use of major chords (C, G, D) to provide moments of resolution and hope within the minor framework. This interplay between major and minor chords is a powerful tool in songwriting, and mastering it can elevate your own compositions. By studying "Besitos," you’re not just learning a song—you’re unlocking a fundamental principle of music theory.
Finally, a practical tip: record yourself playing the progression and listen back to identify areas for improvement. Pay attention to timing, clarity, and emotional expression. Are the chord changes smooth? Does the rhythm feel natural? Small adjustments can make a big difference in how the progression resonates with listeners. With patience and practice, you’ll not only master "Besitos" but also develop a deeper understanding of how chord progressions can shape a song’s identity.
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Strumming Pattern Guide: Master the rhythmic strumming pattern for the song
The rhythmic strumming pattern in "Besitos" by Pierce the Veil is a driving force behind the song's energetic and emotive vibe. To capture its essence, focus on a dynamic interplay between downstrokes and upstrokes, emphasizing the offbeats to create a pulsating rhythm. Start by practicing a basic 4/4 pattern, but infuse it with accents on the "and" counts (e.g., 1-and-2-and-3-and-4-and) to mimic the song's urgency. This foundation will help you internalize the groove before layering in the song's unique nuances.
Analyzing the song's structure reveals a deliberate contrast between verse and chorus sections. During the verses, the strumming pattern tends to be more restrained, with a focus on downstrokes and occasional muted strums to build tension. In the chorus, the pattern opens up, incorporating fuller strums and a faster tempo to match the song's emotional peak. Pay attention to how the rhythm guitarist uses palm muting to control the attack of each note, ensuring the pattern remains tight and cohesive. Experiment with varying degrees of muting to find the balance between clarity and aggression.
To master this pattern, break it down into manageable segments. Begin with a slow metronome setting (60-70 BPM) and isolate the downbeat-heavy sections of the verse. Gradually increase the speed while maintaining precision. Once comfortable, introduce the upstrokes and offbeat accents, ensuring they align seamlessly with the song's recording. A practical tip is to practice along with the track, muting the guitar in the original mix to focus solely on your timing. This will help you internalize the rhythm without being distracted by the lead guitar or vocals.
A common pitfall is overcomplicating the pattern or losing consistency in tempo. Resist the urge to rush ahead; instead, focus on maintaining a steady rhythm, even if it means playing at a slower pace initially. Use a metronome or drum machine to keep time, and record yourself to identify areas for improvement. Additionally, be mindful of your picking hand's motion—keep it relaxed yet controlled to avoid fatigue during longer practice sessions. With patience and deliberate practice, you'll soon nail the strumming pattern that brings "Besitos" to life.
Finally, consider the emotional intent behind the rhythm. The strumming pattern in "Besitos" isn’t just mechanical; it’s a tool to convey the song's passion and intensity. Listen closely to the live performances or studio recordings to absorb the subtle variations in dynamics and timing. Mimic these nuances to add authenticity to your rendition. Remember, mastering this pattern isn’t just about technical accuracy—it’s about channeling the energy of Pierce the Veil into every strum. With dedication and attention to detail, you’ll not only play the song but feel it.
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Riff Breakdown: Analyze and practice the signature guitar riffs
The opening riff of "Besitos" by Pierce the Veil is a deceptively simple yet instantly recognizable hook. Built on a foundation of power chords and palm-muted staccato notes, it demands precision and a light touch. Start by isolating the riff at a slow tempo, focusing on the muted notes' consistency and the power chords' clarity. Use a metronome to ensure each note is evenly spaced, gradually increasing speed as you build muscle memory.
While the riff relies on basic chord shapes, its character comes from the interplay between muted and open strings. Pay close attention to the palm muting technique – too much pressure will dull the sound, too little will make it muddy. Experiment with different muting pressures to find the sweet spot where the notes are crisp and defined. Remember, the goal is to create a rhythmic pulse, not a wall of sound.
A key element often overlooked is the subtle string bending within the riff. The slight upward bend on the high E string adds a touch of tension and release, giving the riff its signature "bite." Practice this bend in isolation, ensuring it's consistent and in tune. A good exercise is to record yourself playing the riff and compare it to the original recording, focusing on the bend's timing and pitch.
Finally, don't underestimate the importance of dynamics. The riff builds intensity through subtle volume swells. Experiment with picking harder on certain notes or chords to emphasize specific beats. This adds a layer of nuance and keeps the riff from becoming monotonous. Remember, "Besitos" is a song about passion and intensity – let that translate into your playing.
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Solo Techniques: Tackle the solo with step-by-step finger placement
The solo in "Besitos" by Pierce the Veil is a melodic, emotionally charged passage that demands precision and fluidity. To master it, break it down into manageable segments, focusing on finger placement and transitions. Begin by isolating the first phrase, typically played on the higher strings. Position your first finger on the 5th fret of the B string, followed by your third finger on the 7th fret. This interval sets the tone for the solo’s expressive character. Practice this shift slowly, ensuring each note rings clearly before advancing.
Next, tackle the rapid hammer-ons and pull-offs that give the solo its fluidity. For example, in the second measure, you’ll alternate between the 7th and 8th frets on the G string. Anchor your first finger on the 7th fret and use your third or fourth finger for the 8th fret, depending on hand size. The key here is minimizing finger movement—keep your hand close to the fretboard to execute the technique smoothly. A metronome set at 60 BPM can help you internalize the rhythm without sacrificing accuracy.
One of the solo’s most challenging aspects is the string skipping in the third phrase. Here, you’ll jump from the D string to the high E string while maintaining the melody’s integrity. Position your fingers in advance: for instance, when moving from the 5th fret on the D string to the 7th fret on the E string, prepare your first finger on the E string while plucking the D string. This anticipatory technique reduces latency and ensures seamless transitions. Record yourself to identify any timing discrepancies or muted notes.
Finally, incorporate vibrato to add emotion and authenticity to the solo. Focus on the longer notes, typically at the end of phrases, and apply vibrato by gently rolling your finger back and forth over the fret. Start with a narrow vibrato (about a quarter tone) and gradually widen it as you gain control. Avoid overdoing it—the goal is to enhance the note, not overpower it. Pair this with slight volume swells by adjusting your picking intensity for a truly dynamic performance.
By breaking the solo into these steps and focusing on finger placement, you’ll build both technical skill and musicality. Remember, consistency is key—practice each segment until it feels natural before piecing them together. With patience and attention to detail, you’ll not only play the solo but also capture the passion that defines "Besitos."
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Tuning & Setup: Ensure your guitar is tuned and set up correctly
Before diving into the intricate riffs and emotive chords of "Besitos" by Pierce the Veil, your guitar must be a reliable instrument, not a source of frustration. Proper tuning and setup are the foundation of any performance, ensuring clarity, intonation, and playability. A poorly tuned guitar will not only sound dissonant but also hinder your ability to execute the song’s technical demands.
Step 1: Tuning Precision
Start by tuning your guitar to standard EADGBE tuning using a reliable tuner. For "Besitos," which relies heavily on clean and distorted tones, even slight detuning can disrupt the harmony. Pay extra attention to the B string, as it tends to go sharp or flat quickly. If you’re using alternate tunings (though unlikely for this song), ensure you adjust accordingly. Pro tip: Tune up in stages—tighten the string slightly above pitch, then bring it down to the correct note. This reduces string slippage and improves stability.
Step 2: Truss Rod and Action Adjustment
A guitar’s truss rod and action (string height) directly impact playability. For "Besitos," which alternates between barre chords and single-note melodies, a balanced setup is crucial. If the action is too high, you’ll struggle with fretting; too low, and you’ll encounter fret buzz. Use a truss rod wrench to adjust the neck relief—a slight forward bow is ideal. For action, loosen the neck screws, adjust the saddles, and retighten. Aim for 1.5–2mm at the 12th fret for a comfortable yet responsive feel.
Caution: Less is More
Over-adjusting can cause irreversible damage. If you’re unsure, consult a professional luthier. Small tweaks go a long way—turn the truss rod no more than ¼ of a turn at a time, and recheck tuning after each adjustment.
Takeaway: Consistency is Key
A well-tuned and set-up guitar not only sounds better but also makes learning "Besitos" more efficient. Spend 10–15 minutes before each practice session tuning and checking your setup. This habit ensures your guitar remains a tool for expression, not a barrier to it. With a properly prepared instrument, you’ll be ready to tackle the song’s dynamic shifts and technical nuances with confidence.
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Frequently asked questions
The song is typically played in standard tuning (E A D G B E).
The main strumming pattern alternates between downstrokes and upstrokes, often emphasizing a steady rhythm with occasional muted strums for dynamics.
Yes, the song features palm muting for a tight, rhythmic sound and may require light distortion or overdrive for the signature tone.
You can find reliable guitar tabs on platforms like Ultimate Guitar or Songsterr, and video tutorials are available on YouTube from experienced guitar instructors.
