Teardrop

Massive Attack are an English trip hop group formed in Bristol in 1988. Massive Attack are known for their dark and atmospheric sound, which incorporates elements of hip hop, reggae, and dub. They have released five studio albums, all of which have been critically acclaimed.

One of Massive Attack’s most popular songs is “Teardrop”, which was released on their 1998 album Mezzanine. “Teardrop” is a haunting and beautiful song with ethereal vocals from Elizabeth Fraser of the Cocteau Twins.

How Play Teardrop | fingerstyle guitar

(Resources: learn more about Premium Memberships here. Get my weekly posts right to your inbox.)

I have sectioned off the tab according to each chord position. Before you begin, you’ll need to do two things:

1) Become comfortable with a low (and underneath) left hand position on guitar. You can see at 0:20 of the video that my left shoulder is dropped, my wrist is underneath the guitar, and even my thumb is low behind the neck.

Don’t be surprised if this position feels uncomfortable and strained at first. I have tiny hands, but was somehow blessed with freakishly long arms — so I can get into this position fairly easily.

2) Visualize yourself as a fleet fingered, agile guitar player. You’ll be working one block at a time, so each section will have you somewhat prepared for the next.

Don’t belabor your chord positions, or press the strings too hard. Think of your hands as light, feathery, and fast. Just thinking along these lines (and believing it) works wonders when you’re attempting difficult stuff.

Good luck, the tab is available below:

**Teardrop | fingerstyle guitar

Teardrop is played in a pseudo open G tuning. The tuning from low to high is: D G D G B E.