This famous power ballad is in Eb tuning, so tune down each string by 1 note to:

Low Eb:Ab:Db:Gb:Bb:Eb

We're breaking the song down into 3 parts (Beginning - middle - end). Each part also has 2 guitars (Izzy on Rhythm and Slash on Lead). For this song we recommend sticking to Izzy's guitar for learning all the main chords and song parts. Switch to the Slash ActionTabs for the frilly lead guitar stuff.

This is the first part of the song, with Izzy on clean rhythm guitar. We've removed Slash's guitar so it is clearer. Both guitars play very similar music, but Izzy's is easier and more suited to individual playing.

The song is really just some simple chord progressions in the key of A minor. Here's what you need to know:

Intro / Verses:

A minor Start with the G note (yellow dot). The intro is the only place that happens - D minor - G major - C major / small lick

Watch it played out and you can see that it is just a simple chord progression without many frills. Occasionally he diverts to different chords (like at the end of the intro here).

Chorus:

These are the chords whilst Axl sings 'Don't you Cry tonight etc etc':

F major (you need to use your thumb instead of barring across with your first finger if you want to get that hammer on) - G major - A minor

Repeat these chords a few times as shown and then end the chorus with:

C major / lick - A minor - G add4 - F major - G major - A minor

From there on, everything else is more of the same. At the end both guitarists punch the overdrive pedals and rock out with good ol' powerchords and a good solo. We'll look at that next in Part 2.