Hey guys! Ready to dive into the awesome world of Deftones? Today, we're gonna learn how to play "Be Quiet and Drive (Far Away)" on guitar. This song is a total classic, a staple of any early 2000s rock playlist, and it’s actually super fun and rewarding to learn. We'll break down the guitar tabs, so you can start shredding in no time. Whether you're a complete beginner or a seasoned player, this guide is designed to help you master this epic track. So grab your guitar, tune it up, and let's get started! We’ll make sure you understand the chords, the strumming patterns, and even some cool little techniques to make it sound just like the Deftones.

Decoding the Tabs: Understanding the Basics

Alright, before we jump into the song itself, let's make sure we're all on the same page with guitar tabs. Guitar tabs, or tablature, are a simplified way of representing music for guitar. Instead of traditional music notation (the notes on a staff), tabs show you where to place your fingers on the fretboard. Think of it like a map for your fingers! It looks like six horizontal lines, each representing a string on your guitar. The top line is the thinnest string (E), and the bottom line is the thickest string (E). Numbers on the lines indicate which fret to press down. For example, a "0" means you play the open string, meaning you don't press any fret. A "3" means you press down on the third fret. Easy peasy, right?

Let’s break it down further, shall we? When you see the number "0" on the E string (the top line), it means you pluck the open E string. If you see a "3" on the A string, you'll put your finger on the third fret of the A string and strum it. That’s the basic principle! Chords are usually written vertically, meaning the numbers for each string are stacked on top of each other. This shows you which frets to press down to form the chord. Strumming patterns are indicated by how the notes are arranged. For example, a series of numbers in quick succession means a fast strum, while spread-out numbers indicate a slower strum. We'll also be looking at the rhythm, which tells you how long to hold each note. This is usually indicated above or below the tab, using symbols like quarter notes, eighth notes, and sixteenth notes. Don't worry if you're not familiar with these symbols; we'll break it down in a way that's easy to understand. So, the key takeaway here is that tabs provide a straightforward way to learn the notes and the order in which to play them, without needing to know traditional music notation.

This method is particularly helpful when learning a song like “Be Quiet and Drive (Far Away)" because the tabs simplify the more complex musical concepts. This is how the song uses alternative tunings, such as Drop D tuning, which requires you to tune your low E string down to D. This makes it easier to play certain power chords and gives the song its signature heavy sound. By following the tabs, you’ll learn the exact finger placements and strumming patterns used in the song, allowing you to replicate the original track. You won’t just be playing notes; you’ll be playing the song! We will look at each section of the song, breaking down each part, including the intro, verse, chorus, and bridge. We'll be using this method to decode the song and give you the confidence to play along. Get ready to impress your friends with your newfound guitar skills!

Getting Started: Tuning and Essential Chords

Before we can play "Be Quiet and Drive (Far Away)," we need to make sure our guitar is ready. This song uses Drop D tuning. Drop D tuning is a guitar tuning where the low E string is tuned down a whole step to D. This gives the guitar a thicker, heavier sound, and it makes it easier to play power chords and some of the riffs in the song. Here's how to tune your guitar to Drop D:

1. Tune the Low E string: Using a tuner or by ear, tune the low E string down to D. You can match the note to the D on the A string. This means that the lowest string will now be a D note, not an E.
2. Keep the Other Strings Standard: The other strings (A, D, G, B, and high E) remain in standard tuning. Make sure you check them with your tuner. Check each string to be sure it is properly tuned.

Once your guitar is tuned to Drop D, you are ready to get started. Now, let’s go over the essential chords you'll be using throughout the song. This song primarily uses power chords, which are a cornerstone of rock music. Power chords are two-note chords that provide a strong and driving sound, perfect for the heavy feel of Deftones.

• D5 Power Chord: Place your index finger on the 5th fret of the A string and your ring finger on the 7th fret of the D string. Strum these two strings together. This creates a powerful, driving sound.
• C5 Power Chord: Move your index finger to the 3rd fret of the A string, and your ring finger to the 5th fret of the D string. Strum these two strings.
• G5 Power Chord: Move your index finger to the 5th fret of the E string, and your ring finger to the 7th fret of the A string. Strum these two strings together.

These chords are the foundation of “Be Quiet and Drive (Far Away).” These chords might seem simple, but their sound is powerful, especially with the use of distortion, which is a staple of Deftones' sound. Start practicing switching between these chords, making sure your transitions are smooth and the chords sound clean. Remember to use a pick and strum with a consistent down-up pattern to get the best sound. Pay attention to how long each chord is held, based on the rhythm of the song. With these chords and a solid grasp of Drop D tuning, you're well on your way to playing the song. It is essential to be consistent and to practice regularly.

Breaking Down the Song: Intro, Verse, Chorus, and Bridge

Let's get down to the fun part: learning the different sections of "Be Quiet and Drive (Far Away)"! We'll break down the intro, verse, chorus, and bridge, so you can learn the song step-by-step. I'll provide you with the tabs and some tips to make it easier to learn. Remember to start slow and gradually increase the speed as you get comfortable. Listen to the original song to get the rhythm and timing right.

Intro

The intro to "Be Quiet and Drive (Far Away)" sets the tone for the entire song. It's instantly recognizable and sets the stage for the heavy guitar riffs. Here's the tab:

D|------------------------------------------------------------------|
A|------------------------------------------------------------------|
D|-0-0-0-0-0-0-0-0-0-0-0-0-0-0-0-0---------------------------------|
G|-0-0-0-0-0-0-0-0-0-0-0-0-0-0-0-0---------------------------------|
B|-0-0-0-0-0-0-0-0-0-0-0-0-0-0-0-0---------------------------------|
E|-0-0-0-0-0-0-0-0-0-0-0-0-0-0-0-0---------------------------------|

This intro uses a simple but effective riff on the open D string. You play the open D string (0 on the D string) repeatedly. The key is to keep it consistent, creating a driving rhythm. Use a pick and try to maintain a steady tempo. Practice this intro until it’s smooth and clean. This is the foundation of the song and sets the stage for the rest of the track. Once you get the timing down, it will be easier to play the song at the correct tempo. Remember, precision is more important than speed at this stage. Listen to the original song to get the feel of the intro. The intro repeats a few times to start the song. Mastering this intro will give you a great foundation for the entire song. This is the cornerstone of the song. The notes are played over and over again.

Verse

The verse builds upon the intro and introduces some new chords. It is a bit more complex, but still not too hard. The verse uses a combination of power chords that give it its signature sound. Here's a simplified version of the verse tabs:

D|------------------------------------------------------------------|
A|------------------------------------------------------------------|
D|-0-0-0-0-0-0-0-0-0-0-0-0-0-0-0-0-5-5-5-5-5-5-5-5-3-3-3-3-3-3-3-3-|
G|-0-0-0-0-0-0-0-0-0-0-0-0-0-0-0-0-5-5-5-5-5-5-5-5-3-3-3-3-3-3-3-3-|
B|-0-0-0-0-0-0-0-0-0-0-0-0-0-0-0-0-3-3-3-3-3-3-3-3-1-1-1-1-1-1-1-1-|
E|-0-0-0-0-0-0-0-0-0-0-0-0-0-0-0-0---------------------------------|

This verse moves from the open D string to the D5, C5, and G5 power chords. The tab shows you how to switch between the chords. Remember to keep a steady rhythm. The rhythm is crucial in the verse. Practice changing between chords smoothly. Notice how the open D string is played, then the power chords. Focus on the transitions between chords and the rhythm. The verse flows from the intro, giving it a seamless feel. The rhythm here is vital for maintaining the song's energy. Remember, practice is critical, and over time, you will learn the song. The changes here are relatively simple and you will soon master it.

Chorus

The chorus is where the song really takes off. The chorus is powerful, with a soaring feel. Here are the tabs for the chorus:

D|------------------------------------------------------------------|
A|------------------------------------------------------------------|
D|-5-5-5-5-5-5-5-5-7-7-7-7-7-7-7-7-3-3-3-3-3-3-3-3------------------|
G|-5-5-5-5-5-5-5-5-7-7-7-7-7-7-7-7-3-3-3-3-3-3-3-3------------------|
B|-3-3-3-3-3-3-3-3-5-5-5-5-5-5-5-5-1-1-1-1-1-1-1-1------------------|
E|------------------------------------------------------------------|

The chorus features the D5, G5, and C5 power chords again. The key is the rhythm. The chorus is louder and more powerful. Strum these chords with more emphasis to capture the energy. Focus on the downstrokes. Maintain a solid rhythm throughout the chorus. The key here is to bring the power of the song. As you play, try to get more and more comfortable. The chorus makes a strong impact on the song. You should also feel comfortable playing it. The rhythm and the power chords work in harmony.

Bridge

The bridge introduces a different feel to the song, often with a more melodic part before building back to the chorus. Here's a simplified version of the bridge tabs:

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

The bridge often incorporates the open D string, along with the D5 and C5 power chords. The bridge is quieter. Vary your strumming and dynamics to give it the right feel. Focus on the transitions between the chords and the rhythm. It transitions from the verse, building back to the chorus. The bridge adds a fresh perspective. Use your musicality to make it your own. It allows for a fresh dynamic and more musical interest. Practice the transitions, so you can switch at the right time.

Practice Tips and Techniques for a Pro Sound

Alright, you've got the tabs, but how do you really make it sound like the pros? Here are some practice tips and techniques to help you nail "Be Quiet and Drive (Far Away)."

• Start Slow: Always begin by practicing the song slowly. This allows you to focus on accuracy and clean transitions. Gradually increase the tempo as you get more comfortable.
• Use a Metronome: A metronome is your best friend when learning guitar. It helps you keep time and develop a solid sense of rhythm. Use it to practice all sections of the song, gradually increasing the tempo.
• Focus on Clean Transitions: Practice changing between chords smoothly. This is key to a professional sound. Work on making each transition precise and clean.
• Strumming Patterns: Pay attention to the strumming patterns. Practice downstrokes and upstrokes until they become natural. Experiment with different strumming patterns to add variety.
• Listen to the Original: Always listen to the original song to get the feel and timing right. Pay attention to the dynamics and nuances.
• Use Distortion: The song uses distortion, so experiment with your guitar’s distortion settings to get the right sound. Use these settings carefully. You can use a pedal or your amp's built-in distortion.
• Record Yourself: Record yourself playing to identify areas that need improvement. This helps you hear your mistakes and track your progress.
• Practice Regularly: Consistency is key. Practice a little bit every day, rather than cramming it all in one session.

Remember, practice makes perfect. Keep at it, and you'll be playing this awesome song in no time. With these tips and the tabs, you're ready to start playing. Keep at it, and you’ll get there. Every practice session will improve your playing. Keep going, and do not give up. Over time, you’ll master this song. Remember, having fun is the most important part of the journey. Embrace the process, and enjoy the music!

Final Thoughts and Next Steps

So there you have it, guys! We've covered everything you need to know to learn “Be Quiet and Drive (Far Away)” on guitar. You've got the tabs, the chords, and the practice tips. Now it's time to put it all together and start playing. Remember, the journey of learning a song can be a very enriching experience. Keep practicing, and don’t be afraid to experiment. Play around with the song, add your own personal touches, and most importantly, have fun! Music is about expressing yourself, and this song is the perfect opportunity. Don't be afraid to make mistakes – that’s how we learn. Keep practicing and keep enjoying the music. Go back and listen to the song to keep your inspiration. There's a lot more to explore with the Deftones. Continue to work on playing along with the song and developing your skills. Keep playing and learning! You'll be playing like a pro in no time.

What's next? Well, why not try learning another Deftones song? Or explore different tunings and techniques? The possibilities are endless. Keep on rocking, and keep the music alive!