How to Play “Coffee and TV” on Guitar: A Definitive Guide
Learning to play “Coffee and TV” on guitar involves mastering the distinctive chord progressions, and the iconic intro and verse riffs. This guide breaks down the song into manageable sections, enabling guitarists of varying skill levels to achieve a satisfying rendition of this Blur classic.
A Brief History and Enduring Appeal
“Coffee and TV,” released in 1999 as a single from Blur’s album “13,” stands out for its relatively mellow and melodic nature compared to some of their more abrasive tracks. Written by guitarist Graham Coxon (who also sings lead vocals), the song explores themes of love, addiction, and social awkwardness, resonating with listeners through its honest and relatable lyrics. Its enduring popularity stems from its catchy melodies, relatable themes, and Coxon’s unique guitar style, which blends indie rock sensibilities with nuanced chord voicings.
Breaking Down the Song Structure
Understanding the structure of “Coffee and TV” is key to learning it efficiently. The song generally follows this format:
- Intro
- Verse 1
- Chorus
- Verse 2
- Chorus
- Bridge
- Guitar Solo
- Chorus
- Outro
Each section contains specific guitar parts and chord progressions. Focusing on mastering each section individually is a great strategy.
Mastering the Chord Progression
The song primarily revolves around a few key chords, making it accessible to intermediate guitar players. Here’s a breakdown of the main chords used:
- G: 320003
- Em: 022000
- C: x32010
- D: xx0232
- Am: x02210
The most common progression you’ll encounter is G – Em – C – D, forming the backbone of the verses and choruses. Learning these chords and transitioning smoothly between them is essential.
Taming the Intro and Verse Riffs
The intro and verse sections feature distinctive guitar riffs that add texture and complexity to the song. The intro riff is arguably the most iconic part of the song. It requires a degree of dexterity and fingerpicking. Here’s a simplified approach to understanding it:
- Start by focusing on the basic melody on the G string (3rd string).
- Incorporate the hammer-ons and pull-offs to achieve the desired sound.
- Experiment with your own fingerpicking style to discover what works best for you.
The verse riff builds on the intro but is often played with more strumming and less fingerpicking, creating a subtle variation.
The Guitar Solo: A Coxon Signature
The guitar solo in “Coffee and TV” embodies Graham Coxon’s distinctive playing style. It’s characterized by its melodic approach, incorporating bluesy bends and subtle vibrato. While transcribing the solo note-for-note can be challenging, focusing on capturing the overall feel is a more accessible approach for most players.
Equipment Recommendations
While you can play “Coffee and TV” on virtually any electric guitar, certain equipment can help you achieve a sound closer to the original:
| Equipment | Recommendation | Justification |
|---|---|---|
| Guitar | Fender Telecaster or similar single-coil guitar | Coxon is known for playing Telecasters, which provide a bright and twangy tone. |
| Amplifier | Fender-style tube amplifier | Offers a clean and slightly overdriven sound suitable for the song’s tone. |
| Effects Pedal | Overdrive or distortion pedal (e.g., Tube Screamer) | Provides subtle gain for the solo and adds warmth to the overall tone. |
Common Mistakes to Avoid
- Rushing the tempo: “Coffee and TV” is a relatively slow song. Be careful not to rush the tempo, which can detract from its laid-back feel.
- Ignoring dynamics: The song features dynamic variations between the verses and choruses. Pay attention to the dynamics and adjust your playing accordingly.
- Neglecting fingerpicking technique: The intro and verse riffs require precise fingerpicking. Practice these sections slowly and deliberately to develop proper technique.
Resources for Learning
- Online Tabs and Chords: Websites like Ultimate-Guitar and Songsterr offer various versions of the song’s tabs and chords.
- YouTube Tutorials: Numerous YouTube channels offer video lessons on how to play “Coffee and TV” on guitar.
- Guitar Instructors: Consider taking lessons from a guitar instructor who can provide personalized feedback and guidance.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
What is the tuning for “Coffee and TV”?
The song is played in standard tuning (EADGBe). No capo is required.
Is “Coffee and TV” a difficult song to learn on guitar?
“Coffee and TV” is generally considered an intermediate-level song on guitar. The chord progressions are fairly simple, but the intro riff requires some dexterity and fingerpicking experience.
What are the key chords in the song?
The key chords in the song are G, Em, C, D, and Am. These chords form the basis of the verse and chorus progressions.
How do I play the intro riff?
The intro riff involves fingerpicking a melodic line on the G string, incorporating hammer-ons and pull-offs. Start slowly and gradually increase your speed as you become more comfortable.
What is the best way to approach the guitar solo?
Focus on capturing the overall feel and phrasing of the solo rather than trying to transcribe it note-for-note. Experiment with bluesy bends and vibrato to add your own touch.
What kind of guitar is Graham Coxon known for playing?
Graham Coxon is primarily known for playing Fender Telecasters, which contribute to his bright and twangy guitar tone.
Can I play “Coffee and TV” on an acoustic guitar?
While the song is traditionally played on an electric guitar, you can certainly play it on an acoustic guitar. However, you may need to adjust your playing to compensate for the lack of sustain and distortion.
What is the time signature of “Coffee and TV”?
The song is in common time, also known as 4/4 time. This means that there are four beats per measure.
How do I improve my fingerpicking technique?
Practice regularly and focus on developing accuracy and consistency. Start with simple fingerpicking exercises and gradually work your way up to more complex patterns.
Where can I find guitar tabs for “Coffee and TV”?
Numerous websites, such as Ultimate-Guitar and Songsterr, offer guitar tabs for “Coffee and TV.”
What is the most challenging part of learning the song?
For many players, the intro riff is the most challenging part of learning the song due to its fingerpicking complexity and subtle nuances.
What is the best advice for learning “Coffee and TV” on guitar?
The best advice is to break the song down into smaller sections and practice each section individually. Be patient and persistent, and don’t be afraid to experiment and find your own style.