Limp Bizkit: Behind Blue Eyes - Guitar Chords & Tabs

Nov 14, 2025 by Alex Braham 53 views

Hey guys! Today, let's dive deep into the iconic Limp Bizkit rendition of "Behind Blue Eyes." Originally by The Who, Limp Bizkit's version brings a unique nu-metal twist to this classic, making it a favorite for many guitar enthusiasts. Whether you're a beginner just starting with chords or an experienced player looking to nail those intricate tabs, this guide has got you covered. We'll break down everything from the basic chords to the more complex nuances of the song, ensuring you can play it with confidence and style. So grab your guitar, tune up, and let's get started!

Introduction to "Behind Blue Eyes"

"Behind Blue Eyes" is a song originally performed by the legendary rock band The Who in 1971. It's part of their Who's Next album and is known for its contrasting soft and hard sections, exploring themes of inner turmoil and misunderstood emotions. Limp Bizkit covered this song in 2003 for their album Results May Vary, giving it a heavier, more contemporary sound. The nu-metal arrangement incorporates distorted guitars, heavier percussion, and Fred Durst's signature vocals, creating a powerful and emotionally charged rendition. The song's structure remains largely the same, but Limp Bizkit's interpretation injects a raw energy that resonates with a new generation of listeners. Understanding both versions can give you a richer appreciation of the song's versatility and enduring appeal. The contrast between the original's progressive rock feel and Limp Bizkit's nu-metal approach highlights the song's adaptability and its ability to connect with different audiences across different eras.

The Allure of Limp Bizkit's Version

Limp Bizkit's cover of "Behind Blue Eyes" stands out because it successfully marries the emotional depth of the original with the aggressive energy of nu-metal. The band manages to retain the song's core message while infusing it with their distinctive sound. Fred Durst's vocals, often characterized by a blend of rapping and singing, add a layer of angst and vulnerability that fits perfectly with the song's theme of hidden pain. The heavier instrumentation, including the distorted guitars and powerful drum beats, amplifies the emotional intensity, making it a compelling listen. For guitarists, this version offers a chance to explore both clean, melodic sections and heavier, more aggressive riffs, providing a dynamic and engaging playing experience. The song’s structure, which alternates between soft verses and explosive choruses, keeps the listener engaged and allows for a wide range of expressive techniques. This blend of styles has made Limp Bizkit's version a standout track in their discography and a favorite among fans of both the band and the original song.

Basic Chords

To start playing "Behind Blue Eyes," you'll need to know a few essential chords. These chords form the backbone of the song and will get you through most of the verses and choruses. Here are the basic chords you should familiarize yourself with:

Am (A minor): A simple yet powerful chord, Am is often used in melancholic or introspective passages. Place your index finger on the 1st fret of the B string, your middle finger on the 2nd fret of the D string, and your ring finger on the 2nd fret of the G string. Strum all strings.
G (G major): A bright and resonant chord, G adds a touch of hope or resolution. Place your middle finger on the 3rd fret of the low E string, your index finger on the 2nd fret of the A string, and your ring finger on the 3rd fret of the high E string. Strum all strings.
C (C major): A fundamental chord, C provides a sense of stability and grounding. Place your index finger on the 1st fret of the B string, your middle finger on the 2nd fret of the D string, and your ring finger on the 3rd fret of the A string. Strum all strings, avoiding the low E string.
F (F major): A slightly more challenging chord for beginners, F adds a touch of complexity and tension. There are a couple of ways to play it. One way is to barre the first fret with your index finger, covering all six strings. Then, place your middle finger on the 2nd fret of the G string, your ring finger on the 3rd fret of the D string, and your pinky finger on the 3rd fret of the A string. Alternatively, you can play a simplified version by only barring the first two strings and adding the middle finger on the G string.

Tips for Beginners

If you're new to playing guitar, mastering these chords might take some practice. Start by focusing on clean finger placement and ensuring each note rings out clearly. Use online resources like chord diagrams and video tutorials to visualize the finger positions. Practice transitioning between these chords slowly at first, gradually increasing your speed as you become more comfortable. Remember, consistency is key. Even a few minutes of practice each day can make a big difference. Don't get discouraged if you don't get it right away. Guitar playing is a journey, and every little bit of practice helps you improve. Focus on accuracy over speed in the beginning, and the speed will come naturally as you develop muscle memory.

Advanced Chords and Tabs

For those looking to add more depth and complexity to their playing, "Behind Blue Eyes" offers opportunities to explore advanced chords and incorporate some intricate guitar tabs. These elements can help you capture the nuances of Limp Bizkit's version and add your personal flair to the song.

Exploring Advanced Chords

Am7 (A minor 7): This chord adds a jazzy, sophisticated feel to the A minor. Play it by placing your index finger on the 1st fret of the B string and your middle finger on the 2nd fret of the D string. Leave the G string open. This creates a richer, more textured sound compared to the basic Am.
G/B (G major with B in the bass): This chord is a variation of G that adds a unique harmonic color. Place your index finger on the 2nd fret of the A string (which is the B note), your middle finger on the 3rd fret of the low E string, and your ring finger on the 3rd fret of the high E string. This chord is often used to create smooth transitions between chords.
Fmaj7 (F major 7): This chord adds a soft, dreamy quality to the F major. Barre the first fret with your index finger, covering all six strings. Then, place your middle finger on the 2nd fret of the G string and your ring finger on the 3rd fret of the A string. Leave the high E string open. This chord provides a more delicate and airy alternative to the standard F major.

Incorporating Guitar Tabs

Guitar tabs can help you capture specific riffs and melodies that are central to Limp Bizkit's version of "Behind Blue Eyes." Here are some tips for incorporating tabs into your playing:

Identify Key Riffs: Listen closely to the song and identify the main guitar riffs. These are often found in the intro, verses, or instrumental breaks. Online resources like Ultimate Guitar or Songsterr can provide accurate tabs for these sections.
Focus on Accuracy: When learning a tab, pay close attention to the finger placements and timing. Use a metronome to ensure you're playing in rhythm. Start slowly and gradually increase the tempo as you become more comfortable.
Use Alternate Picking: Experiment with alternate picking (down-up-down-up) to improve your speed and accuracy. This technique can help you play faster riffs more smoothly.
Add Vibrato and Bends: Incorporate vibrato and string bends to add expression to your playing. These techniques can help you emulate the nuances of the original recording.

By exploring these advanced chords and incorporating guitar tabs, you can elevate your playing and create a more dynamic and engaging rendition of "Behind Blue Eyes."

Song Structure and Arrangement

Understanding the structure and arrangement of "Behind Blue Eyes" is crucial for playing it effectively. Limp Bizkit's version generally follows a similar structure to the original, but with their own unique twists. Here’s a breakdown of the song’s structure:

Intro: The song typically begins with a clean, melodic guitar intro. This section often features arpeggiated chords or a simple fingerpicked melody. Pay attention to the dynamics and try to create a sense of anticipation.
Verse 1: The first verse introduces the main lyrical theme. The guitar part is usually subdued, providing a backdrop for the vocals. Focus on clean chord changes and a steady rhythm.
Chorus 1: The chorus is where the song's energy picks up. The guitar part becomes more prominent, often featuring power chords or a driving rhythm. Sing along to the lyrics to capture the emotional intensity of this section.
Verse 2: Similar to the first verse, the second verse continues the narrative with a slightly different lyrical perspective. The guitar part remains relatively mellow, but you can add subtle variations to keep it interesting.
Chorus 2: The second chorus reinforces the song's main theme and builds upon the energy of the first chorus. Play with more intensity and passion to emphasize the emotional impact.
Bridge: The bridge provides a change of pace and introduces new musical ideas. This section might feature a different chord progression, a guitar solo, or a vocal interlude. Use this section to showcase your creativity and add your personal touch.
Chorus 3: The final chorus is the climax of the song. Play with full force and give it everything you've got. This is your chance to leave a lasting impression on the listener.
Outro: The song concludes with a final reprise of the intro or a simple fade-out. End with a sense of closure and resolution.

Techniques and Tips for Mastering the Song

To truly master Limp Bizkit's version of "Behind Blue Eyes," it’s important to focus on specific techniques and tips that will elevate your playing. These include everything from mastering the strumming patterns to understanding the nuances of the song's dynamics.

Strumming Patterns

Down-Up Strumming: The most common strumming pattern involves alternating between downstrokes and upstrokes. This provides a consistent rhythm and is suitable for both the verses and choruses.
Palm Muting: Use palm muting to create a chunkier, more aggressive sound. This technique involves resting the edge of your palm on the strings near the bridge to dampen the sound.
Syncopated Rhythms: Experiment with syncopated rhythms to add a sense of groove and complexity. This involves emphasizing off-beats and creating a more dynamic feel.

Dynamics and Expression

Volume Control: Use volume control to create contrast between the soft verses and the loud choruses. This can be achieved by adjusting your picking intensity or using a volume pedal.
Tone Shaping: Experiment with different guitar tones to match the mood of each section. Use a clean tone for the verses and a distorted tone for the choruses.
Emotional Connection: Connect with the emotions of the song and let that influence your playing. This will help you convey the song's message more effectively.

Practice Techniques

Slow Practice: Start by practicing the song at a slow tempo to ensure accuracy. Gradually increase the tempo as you become more comfortable.
Sectional Practice: Break the song into sections and practice each section separately. This will help you identify and address any problem areas.
Record Yourself: Record yourself playing the song and listen back to identify areas for improvement. This is a great way to spot mistakes and track your progress.

By focusing on these techniques and tips, you can take your playing to the next level and truly master Limp Bizkit's version of "Behind Blue Eyes."

Conclusion

So, there you have it, folks! A comprehensive guide to playing Limp Bizkit's "Behind Blue Eyes" on guitar. From the basic chords to advanced techniques, we've covered everything you need to know to nail this iconic track. Remember, practice makes perfect, so don't be afraid to put in the time and effort to hone your skills. And most importantly, have fun and let your passion for music shine through in your playing. Whether you're a seasoned guitarist or just starting out, this song offers something for everyone. So grab your guitar, crank up the volume, and get ready to rock! Keep strumming, keep practicing, and keep exploring the amazing world of music. Until next time, rock on!