Junior Rasmussen
The Outsider by Black Veil Brides is a powerful and anthemic track that resonates with fans of hard rock and metal, blending intense guitar riffs with Andy Biersack’s distinctive vocals. To play this song, guitarists should focus on mastering the driving power chords and rhythmic strumming patterns that define the verse and chorus, while drummers need to maintain a steady, pounding beat with occasional fills to emphasize the song’s energy. Bassists play a crucial role in anchoring the rhythm, often mirroring the guitar lines to create a thick, cohesive sound. For vocalists, hitting the high notes with emotion and clarity is key, as the lyrics are both introspective and empowering. Practicing with a metronome to ensure timing precision and listening closely to the original recording for nuances will help musicians capture the essence of The Outsider and deliver a compelling performance.
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What You'll Learn
- Understanding the Song Structure: Learn the verse, chorus, bridge, and solo sections for clear navigation
- Mastering the Guitar Riffs: Focus on power chords, palm muting, and rhythmic precision in the main riff
- Vocal Techniques: Practice Andy Biersack’s aggressive yet melodic delivery, emphasizing phrasing and emotion
- Drumming Patterns: Study the driving beats, double bass usage, and fills to maintain energy
- Bass Line Essentials: Lock in with the rhythm, emphasizing root notes and groove for solid foundation
Understanding the Song Structure: Learn the verse, chorus, bridge, and solo sections for clear navigation
The song "The Outsider" by Black Veil Brides is a dynamic piece with a clear structure that, when understood, can greatly enhance your ability to play it. Breaking it down into its core components—verse, chorus, bridge, and solo—provides a roadmap for both learning and performing the song. Each section serves a distinct purpose, contributing to the overall narrative and emotional arc of the track.
Analyzing the structure begins with the verse, which sets the scene and introduces the song’s theme. In "The Outsider," the verses are characterized by a steady, driving rhythm that builds tension and tells the story of alienation and resilience. To master this section, focus on the chord progression and strumming pattern, ensuring they align with the song’s aggressive yet melodic tone. Practice transitioning smoothly between chords to maintain the verse’s momentum, as this will lay the foundation for the rest of the song.
The chorus is where the song’s energy peaks, delivering its central message with power and clarity. In "The Outsider," the chorus is anthemic, with a memorable melody and lyrics that resonate with the listener. To play this section effectively, pay close attention to the vocal line and how it interacts with the instrumentation. Strive for precision in your playing, as the chorus is the emotional centerpiece of the song. A tip for guitarists: emphasize the power chords and sync your strumming with the drum beats to amplify the impact.
The bridge offers a moment of contrast, often shifting the key or tempo to create a sense of release or tension. In "The Outsider," the bridge serves as a reflective interlude, providing a breather before the final chorus. This section requires a lighter touch, focusing on dynamics and expression. Experiment with bending notes or adding vibrato to capture the emotional nuance. For drummers, this is an opportunity to play with ghost notes or a softer backbeat to complement the mood.
Finally, the solo section is a showcase of technical skill and creativity. In "The Outsider," the solo is a high-energy guitar break that demands precision and flair. To tackle this part, break it down into smaller phrases and practice each one at a slower tempo before gradually increasing speed. Listen closely to the original recording to capture the nuances of the phrasing and articulation. Bassists and drummers should maintain a solid groove during the solo to provide a stable foundation while allowing the guitarist to shine.
Understanding the song structure of "The Outsider" is more than just memorizing parts—it’s about recognizing how each section contributes to the whole. By mastering the verse, chorus, bridge, and solo, you’ll not only play the song more confidently but also gain insights into its emotional and narrative flow. This knowledge will enable you to navigate the song with clarity, ensuring a cohesive and engaging performance.
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Mastering the Guitar Riffs: Focus on power chords, palm muting, and rhythmic precision in the main riff
Power chords are the backbone of "The Outsider" by Black Veil Brides, driving the song’s aggressive and anthemic energy. Unlike full chords with three or more notes, power chords consist of just the root and fifth, creating a raw, open sound that cuts through heavy distortion. In this riff, the simplicity of power chords allows the rhythm and technique to take center stage. Start by mapping out the chord shapes across the fretboard, focusing on the root notes of each chord in the progression. For example, the main riff alternates between E5 and D5, requiring quick, precise shifts between the 7th fret on the A string and the open D string. Practice these transitions slowly at first, ensuring each chord rings out clearly before building up speed.
Palm muting transforms power chords from clean and open to tight and controlled, essential for achieving the riff’s signature punch. Rest the side of your picking hand lightly on the bridge of the guitar, just behind the strings, to dampen their sustain. The key is balance: too much pressure kills the note, while too little loses the muted effect. Experiment with varying degrees of muting to find the sweet spot where the chords retain their power but feel rhythmically contained. For "The Outsider," aim for a staccato, percussive attack, especially during the downbeats. Pair this technique with downpicking for maximum impact, and use a metronome to ensure consistency in your muting and picking hand coordination.
Rhythmic precision is what elevates the main riff from a simple sequence of chords to a memorable, headbanging groove. The riff’s driving 4/4 time signature relies on unwavering accuracy in note placement. Break the riff into smaller chunks, focusing on the syncopation between the power chords and the brief pauses created by palm muting. For instance, the riff often emphasizes the "and" counts (e.g., 1-and-2-and-3-and-4-and) to create a forward-pushing feel. Record yourself playing along with the track to identify any timing discrepancies, and adjust your picking hand’s strike point to hit each note exactly on the beat. Consistency here isn’t just about speed—it’s about locking into the song’s pulse.
Combining power chords, palm muting, and rhythmic precision requires deliberate practice. Start by isolating each element: play the power chord progression without muting, then add palm muting at a slow tempo, and finally layer in the rhythmic emphasis. Gradually increase the speed, ensuring each component remains intact. A practical tip is to use a backing track at 75% of the song’s tempo to build muscle memory without sacrificing accuracy. As you progress, challenge yourself by playing the riff in different keys to strengthen your fretboard knowledge. Mastering this riff isn’t just about replicating the notes—it’s about embodying the song’s relentless energy through technical control and rhythmic discipline.
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Vocal Techniques: Practice Andy Biersack’s aggressive yet melodic delivery, emphasizing phrasing and emotion
Andy Biersack’s vocal performance in *The Outsider* by Black Veil Brides is a masterclass in balancing aggression with melody, demanding both technical precision and emotional depth. To replicate his delivery, begin by isolating the song’s phrasing—notice how he punctuates words like “outsider” and “alive” with sharp, staccato bursts, then transitions seamlessly into sustained, melodic lines. This contrast is key: practice alternating between aggressive, chest-driven vocals and smoother, head-voice passages to mimic his dynamic range. Start with 15-minute daily sessions, focusing on maintaining clarity and power without straining your voice.
Analyzing Biersack’s emotional intent reveals another layer of his technique. His delivery isn’t just about hitting notes; it’s about conveying defiance and vulnerability simultaneously. To achieve this, record yourself singing the song and listen for moments where your emotion feels forced or flat. Experiment with facial expressions and body language while singing—tense your jaw slightly for aggressive sections, then relax it for melodic phrases. This physicality helps internalize the emotional shifts, making your performance more authentic.
A practical exercise to refine Biersack’s style is the “phrase-and-pause” method. Break the song into 4-8 bar sections, focusing on one phrase at a time. Sing the phrase aggressively, then pause for a beat before transitioning into the next melodic line. This isolates the interplay between his vocal modes and trains your breath control. Gradually increase the tempo until the transitions feel natural. Pair this with lip trills or humming exercises to warm up your vocal cords, ensuring you can sustain the intensity without fatigue.
Finally, caution against overdoing the aggression, as it can lead to vocal damage. Biersack’s style relies on controlled tension, not brute force. If you feel throat discomfort, dial back the intensity and focus on diaphragmatic support instead. Incorporate vocal cool-downs, such as gentle humming or sipping room-temperature water, after practice sessions. By balancing technique, emotion, and self-care, you’ll capture the essence of his delivery while preserving your voice for the long term.
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Drumming Patterns: Study the driving beats, double bass usage, and fills to maintain energy
The drumming in "The Outsider" by Black Veil Brides is a masterclass in energy and precision, demanding a blend of technical skill and relentless drive. To capture the essence of this track, start by dissecting the foundational beats that propel the song forward. The main groove is a relentless 4/4 pattern, anchored by a steady kick drum on the downbeats and a snare that cracks on the backbeats. This simplicity is deceptive; the challenge lies in maintaining consistency at high speeds while ensuring each hit feels deliberate and powerful. Practice this core rhythm at a slower tempo, gradually increasing speed while using a metronome to build endurance and accuracy.
Double bass drumming is a cornerstone of this song’s intensity, adding layers of aggression and complexity. The pattern often alternates between sixteenth notes and triplet-based grooves, creating a dense, churning undercurrent. To master this, isolate the double bass parts and focus on smooth, controlled footwork. Start with slower tempos, emphasizing evenness between the left and right feet. Incorporate exercises like single-stroke rolls and heel-toe technique to build speed and stamina. Remember, the goal isn’t just speed—it’s maintaining clarity and definition even at breakneck tempos.
Fills in "The Outsider" serve as dynamic punctuation, injecting bursts of creativity without disrupting the song’s momentum. These fills often combine toms, cymbals, and snare in quick, explosive sequences, designed to transition seamlessly back into the main groove. Study the placement of these fills, noting how they align with the song’s structure—typically at the end of phrases or before choruses. Practice transitioning from fills to the main beat without losing tempo or power. Experiment with variations, but always prioritize tightness and precision over complexity.
A critical aspect of this drumming style is its ability to sustain energy throughout the entire track. This requires not just technical proficiency but also strategic pacing. Pay attention to how the drummer modulates intensity, using subtle variations in dynamics and groove to keep the listener engaged. For example, during verses, the playing might feel slightly restrained, only to unleash full force during choruses. Mimic this ebb and flow in your practice sessions, focusing on control and intentionality. Record yourself to identify areas where the energy dips and adjust accordingly.
Finally, immerse yourself in the song’s context to fully internalize its drumming patterns. Listen to the track repeatedly, focusing solely on the drums, and observe how they interact with the other instruments. Notice how the double bass complements the guitar riffs or how fills accentuate vocal phrases. This holistic understanding will help you replicate not just the technical aspects but also the emotional drive of the performance. With dedicated practice and attention to detail, you’ll be able to capture the raw, unyielding energy that defines "The Outsider."
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Bass Line Essentials: Lock in with the rhythm, emphasizing root notes and groove for solid foundation
The bass line in "The Outsider" by Black Veil Brides is the heartbeat of the song, driving the rhythm and providing a solid foundation for the rest of the band. To play this effectively, you must first internalize the groove, which is a steady, pulsating 4/4 time signature. Start by listening to the track repeatedly, focusing solely on the bass. Notice how the bass notes align with the kick drum, creating a locked-in rhythm that’s both powerful and precise. This synchronization is crucial—without it, the song loses its intensity and cohesion. Practice tapping your foot or using a metronome to ensure you’re nailing the timing before even picking up your bass.
Once you’ve mastered the rhythm, shift your focus to the root notes. In "The Outsider," the bass line primarily follows the chord progression, emphasizing the root of each chord to anchor the harmony. For example, during the verse, the bass holds a low E note while the guitar plays an E minor chord. This simplicity is intentional—it allows the melody and vocals to shine while maintaining a strong foundation. To execute this, position your fingers on the fretboard to easily transition between root notes, and avoid overcomplicating the line with unnecessary fills or flourishes. Less is more here; the goal is to support, not overshadow.
Groove is where the bass line comes alive, and in "The Outsider," it’s all about feel. Pay attention to the slight syncopation in the chorus, where the bass anticipates the beat by a fraction. This subtle technique adds energy and movement without disrupting the rhythm. To develop this feel, practice playing along with the song at a slower tempo, gradually increasing the speed as you become more comfortable. Experiment with slight variations in timing—a technique known as "ghost notes"—to add depth without losing the groove. Remember, the groove should feel natural, not forced, so trust your ears and let the rhythm guide you.
Finally, consistency is key. The bass line in "The Outsider" is repetitive by design, but that doesn’t mean it’s easy to play flawlessly. Maintain even pressure on the strings, and ensure each note rings out clearly. Use a pick for precision and attack, especially during the faster sections. If you’re struggling with stamina, break the song into sections and practice each one until you can play it smoothly from start to finish. Recording yourself can also help identify areas where your timing or tone may be off. With patience and persistence, you’ll lock in with the rhythm, emphasize those root notes, and deliver a groove that does justice to the song’s raw, rebellious energy.
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Frequently asked questions
"The Outsider" is typically played in standard tuning (E A D G B E).
The song uses a straightforward down-up strumming pattern, emphasizing the driving rhythm of the track.
The song primarily relies on power chords, palm muting, and occasional single-note riffs, making it accessible for intermediate players.
The tempo of the song is around 120 BPM, which contributes to its energetic and anthemic feel.
Yes, the song features a guitar solo that is moderately challenging, incorporating bends, hammer-ons, and quick fretwork, but it’s manageable with practice.
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