Scandal Baby Chord: Easy Guitar Tutorial

Oct 23, 2025 by Jhon Lennon 41 views

Hey there, fellow guitar enthusiasts! Ever stumbled upon a song that just grabs you and makes you want to pick up your guitar immediately? Well, "Scandal" by Queen is definitely one of those tracks for me. And if you're like me, you probably heard that iconic intro and thought, "How do I play that?" Today, we're diving deep into the Scandal Baby Chord, which is the cornerstone of that electrifying opening riff. Get ready to unlock a new level in your guitar playing, guys, because we're going to break this down step-by-step, making it super accessible even if you're just starting out or looking to add some serious rock flair to your repertoire. This isn't just about learning a chord; it's about understanding the feel and the power behind it, and how it contributes to the legendary sound of "Scandal." So, grab your guitar, tune it up, and let's make some noise!

Understanding the "Scandal" Vibe

Before we even get our fingers on the fretboard, let's talk about the song "Scandal" itself. Released in 1989 on The Miracle album, "Scandal" is a prime example of Queen's enduring power and Freddie Mercury's incredible songwriting prowess. It's a track filled with raw emotion, a driving rhythm, and, of course, that unmistakable guitar work from Brian May. The song is often interpreted as being about the media scrutiny and public pressure that Freddie and his partner Jim Hutton faced. This emotional weight translates directly into the music, giving it a sense of urgency and intensity. The main riff, which features our star chord, is instantly recognizable and sets a tone of defiance and passion. Understanding the context of the song helps us appreciate the chord's role even more. It's not just a random set of notes; it's a musical expression of a powerful narrative. The Scandal Baby Chord, as we'll call it for simplicity (though technically it's part of a more complex progression), is what gives that opening its punch. It’s a chord that sounds both familiar and slightly exotic, and mastering it will add a serious amount of character to your playing. Think about the energy Brian May brings to it – that's the kind of vibe we're aiming for. It's about attitude, precision, and a touch of rock and roll swagger. So, when you play it, don't just play the notes; feel the story behind them. This approach will make your playing infinitely more engaging and authentic. Let's get those fingers ready to feel the magic of this iconic chord!

The Anatomy of the Scandal Baby Chord

Alright, let's get down to the nitty-gritty of the Scandal Baby Chord. What is this magical combination of notes that sounds so distinctive? In the context of "Scandal," the opening riff primarily uses a G major chord, but it's played in a way that emphasizes certain notes and often incorporates hammer-ons and pull-offs that give it its unique flavor. So, while the root chord is G major (which consists of the notes G, B, and D), the way Brian May plays it, especially in the intro, involves a bit more nuance. For those of you who are familiar with standard chord shapes, the basic G major chord is usually played with your index finger on the A string (2nd fret), your middle finger on the low E string (3rd fret), your ring finger on the high E string (3rd fret), and your pinky finger on the B string (3rd fret). However, the "Scandal" riff often starts with an open G string, and then the melody line, played on the higher strings, is what gives it its signature sound. The chord shape we're focusing on for the feel of the "Scandal" intro often involves a G major shape but with variations that highlight the upper extensions or melodic movement. Many guitarists simplify the intro riff to focus on the core G major sound, and that's a great starting point. The key here is not just the static chord but the movement and the articulation. Brian May is a master of using hammer-ons and pull-offs to make his chords sing and dance. So, even if you're playing a standard G major, try to emphasize the melody notes within that chord. We'll explore how to incorporate those melodic elements later, but for now, let's solidify the foundational G major chord as the core of our "Scandal" sound. Remember, the beauty of this song lies in its energy and Brian May's signature style, which often involves layering simple ideas into something incredibly complex and captivating. So, understanding the basic G major is step one in capturing that awesome "Scandal" feel. Let's make sure that G sounds good!

How to Play the Basic G Major Chord (Your Foundation)

Before we even think about Brian May's wizardry, let's make sure everyone's got a solid grip on the basic G major chord. This is the bedrock, the foundation upon which the entire "Scandal" riff is built. If you can play a clean G major, you're already halfway there, guys! So, grab your guitar, and let's get those fingers in position. We're going to use the most common and arguably the easiest fingering for a G major chord.

Low E String (6th String): Place your middle finger on the 3rd fret. This note is a G, the root of our chord.
A String (5th String): Leave this string open. It's a great way to add fullness to the chord.
D String (4th String): Leave this string open. This note is a D, a perfect fifth in the G major chord.
G String (3rd String): Leave this string open. This note is a G, the root again, reinforcing the chord's identity.
B String (2nd String): Place your ring finger on the 3rd fret. This note is a D, the fifth of the chord.
High E String (1st String): Place your pinky finger on the 3rd fret. This note is a G, the root again, sounding sweet on the top.

Pro Tip: Make sure your fingers are arched so they aren't muting the adjacent strings. You want each note to ring out clearly. Give each string a strum, starting from the low E string. Do you hear it? That's the sound of rock and roll potential! If any notes sound dead or buzzy, adjust the pressure of your fingers or their position slightly. A common mistake is not pressing down hard enough or having fingers lay flat across the strings. Really focus on using the tips of your fingers. This basic G major chord is crucial. It's the anchor. Once you can play this smoothly and cleanly, you're ready to start adding the "Scandal" flavor. Practice transitioning into and out of this chord. Play it a few times, then lift your fingers, then play it again. The smoother you get, the better you'll sound. This is your first step towards mastering the Scandal Baby Chord and making it your own. Let's nail this G major!

Adding the "Scandal" Flair: The Riff Breakdown

Now that we've got our solid G major chord down, it's time to inject some of that Queen magic! The iconic intro riff in "Scandal" isn't just a static G major; it involves a specific picking pattern and melodic movement that makes it so distinctive. Brian May is a master of creating riffs that are both powerful and melodically interesting, and this is a prime example. The core of the riff is indeed based around a G major shape, but the magic happens in the details. Let's break down how to approach this.

Many transcriptions and simplified versions focus on the notes played. The opening notes often involve playing the open G string, then moving to the higher strings with specific fingerings. A common way to interpret and play the opening of "Scandal" involves:

Starting with the Open G: You'll often hear the open G string played first, giving it that deep, resonant sound.
Melodic Movement on Higher Strings: After the open G, the riff typically moves to the B and high E strings. For instance, you might play a note on the B string (like the 3rd fret, which is a D) and then hammer-on or pull-off to another note, or move to the high E string (like the 3rd fret, a G).
Hammer-ons and Pull-offs: This is where Brian May's signature style truly shines. He often uses hammer-ons (striking a string with a fretting finger without picking it again) and pull-offs (pulling a finger off a fretted note to sound a lower note, usually open or previously fretted) to create a fluid, almost vocal-like quality. For the "Scandal" riff, you might be hammering-on from an open B string to the 3rd fret B string (D), or pulling-off from the 3rd fret G string (high G) to an open G string.

Let's Try a Simplified Approach:

If you're finding the full riff a bit daunting, let's focus on capturing the essence. Start with your G major chord shape. Instead of strumming the whole chord, try picking individual strings. Play the open low E string (G), then pick the open G string, and then the open B string. Then, place your ring finger on the 3rd fret of the B string (D) and pick it. You can then move to the 3rd fret of the high E string (G) and pick that. This gives you a sense of the melodic line.

The "Scandal Baby Chord" Concept:

When we refer to the "Scandal Baby Chord," we're often talking about the G major chord shape itself, but played with the intention of creating that riff's melodic feel. It's about understanding that the chord isn't just a block of sound; it's a vehicle for melody. Think of it as a G major with a built-in melody. The specific fingering you use for the G major can influence how easily you can execute these hammer-ons and pull-offs. Some players prefer a G major where the ring finger is on the 3rd fret of the high E string, and the pinky is on the 3rd fret of the B string, leaving the lower strings open for a different texture. Experiment with different G major fingerings to see which one feels most comfortable for incorporating those melodic runs.

Mastering this riff takes practice. Don't get discouraged if it doesn't sound perfect right away. The key is consistent practice and listening closely to the original recording. Pay attention to the rhythm, the accents, and the sustain of the notes. The Scandal Baby Chord, in essence, is about playing a G major with the attitude and melodic sensibility of Brian May. Keep practicing, guys, and you'll be rocking out to "Scandal" in no time!

Variations and Advanced Techniques

Once you've got the basic Scandal Baby Chord and the core riff down, it's time to elevate your game! Queen's music, especially Brian May's guitar work, is renowned for its layers, intricate harmonies, and innovative techniques. "Scandal" is no exception. While the foundation is a G major chord, there are ways to add more depth, complexity, and that signature May sound. Let's explore some variations and advanced techniques that will make your rendition of the "Scandal" riff truly shine.

The "Scandal" Riff with Power Chords

While the original uses full G major chords and melodic lines, you can adapt the riff using power chords for a heavier, more aggressive sound, which is common in rock music. A G5 power chord is simply the root (G) and the fifth (D), often played on the low E and A strings.

Standard G5: Place your index finger on the 3rd fret of the low E string (G) and your ring finger or pinky on the 5th fret of the A string (D). You would then typically only strum these two strings, or sometimes include the D string (open) for a slightly fuller sound.
Adapting the Riff: You can take the rhythmic pattern of the "Scandal" riff and apply it to this G5 shape. This will give you a chunkier, more driving feel, which can be great for different sections of the song or if you're playing in a band and need a solid rhythmic anchor. While it loses some of the melodic nuance of the original, it gains a raw power that's equally compelling.

Incorporating Suspended Chords

Brian May often uses suspended chords (sus2, sus4) to add color and tension to his progressions. In the context of our G major "Scandal Baby Chord," incorporating suspended chords can add a beautiful harmonic richness.

Gsus4: This chord is formed by replacing the B (the major third) with a C (the perfect fourth). A common way to play Gsus4 is with your index finger on the B string (3rd fret), your middle finger on the high E string (3rd fret), and your ring finger on the D string (5th fret). Alternatively, you can play a standard G major and add your pinky to the C note on the B string (1st fret). When played quickly after a G major, the transition can be very effective.
Gsus2: This chord replaces the B with an A (the major second). A common Gsus2 is played with your index finger on the G string (2nd fret), your middle finger on the high E string (3rd fret), and your ring finger on the B string (3rd fret), leaving the low E and D strings open.

Experiment with playing these suspended chords in sequence with your G major. For example, you could play G major, then Gsus4, then back to G major. This creates a "lifting" or "resolving" sound that's very pleasing to the ear and adds a sophisticated layer to the riff. It gives the Scandal Baby Chord a more dynamic and expressive quality.

Lead Guitar Techniques for "Scandal"

Beyond just the chord itself, the "Scandal" riff is characterized by Brian May's masterful use of lead guitar techniques.

Bends: While not as prominent in the intro riff itself, bends are a staple of May's playing. Practicing precise string bends to hit specific notes will enhance your overall lead playing. Imagine bending a note up to perfectly resolve into the next chord.
Vibrato: Adding vibrato (a slight, rapid fluctuation in pitch) to sustained notes makes them sing and adds emotion. Even on power chords or suspended chords, a controlled vibrato can make a huge difference.
Harmonics: Brian May is also known for his use of artificial harmonics, which create a bell-like, high-pitched tone. While this is a more advanced technique, understanding its existence can inspire you to explore different tonal possibilities.
Double Stops and Harmonies: The layered guitar tracks in Queen's songs often feature double stops (playing two notes at once) and intricate harmonies. For "Scandal," you might hear the main riff doubled an octave higher or harmonized with another guitar part. This is something you can experiment with if you're playing with others or using multi-tracking.

These advanced techniques might seem daunting at first, but incorporating even one or two can dramatically change how you approach the Scandal Baby Chord and the entire riff. Remember, the goal is to capture the spirit and energy of the song. Don't be afraid to experiment and make it your own. Keep practicing, keep listening, and keep rocking!

Practicing the "Scandal Baby Chord" Effectively

So, you've learned the G major, you've dabbled in the riff, and you're feeling the "Scandal" vibe. Awesome! But how do you make sure you don't just learn it and forget it? Effective practice is key, guys. It's not about mindless repetition; it's about smart, focused effort. Let's talk about how to really nail the Scandal Baby Chord and its accompanying riff, turning it into a seamless part of your guitar arsenal.

Slow and Steady Wins the Race

The most crucial piece of advice I can give you is to practice slowly. Seriously. When learning a new chord shape or a tricky riff, your fingers are learning new patterns and muscle memory. Trying to play it at full speed right away will only ingrain mistakes. Use a metronome! Start at a tempo where you can play the chord or riff perfectly, even if it's painfully slow. Focus on clean notes, proper fingering, and smooth transitions. Gradually increase the tempo only when you can play it flawlessly at the current speed. This is especially important for the hammer-ons and pull-offs in the "Scandal" riff. They need to be precise to sound good, and precision comes from slow, deliberate practice.

Isolate and Conquer

Don't try to learn the entire song all at once. Break the Scandal Baby Chord riff down into smaller, manageable chunks. If there's a particular transition that's tripping you up, isolate just those two chords or those two beats. Loop that small section over and over until it feels comfortable. Once you've mastered a phrase, connect it to the next phrase. This building-block approach ensures that every part is solid before you try to put the whole thing together.

Listen Critically

Your ears are your best friends! Listen to the original recording of "Scandal" repeatedly. Pay attention to the nuances: the attack of Brian May's pick, the sustain of the notes, the subtle bends, and the rhythmic feel. Try to mimic what you hear as closely as possible. Recording yourself playing is also incredibly valuable. You might hear things you don't notice while playing, like buzzing strings or timing issues. Compare your recording to the original – it’s a fantastic way to identify areas for improvement.

Chord Transitions and Rhythm Practice

Playing the Scandal Baby Chord in isolation is one thing, but playing it within the context of the song is another. Practice transitioning smoothly into and out of the G major chord shape used in the riff. If the song moves from C to G, then to Am, then back to G, practice that specific sequence. Focus on keeping a steady rhythm throughout these transitions. The "Scandal" riff has a very driving feel, so maintaining that rhythmic pulse is essential. Don't let your rhythm fall apart just because you're focused on a new chord shape.

Make it Fun!

Finally, remember why you started playing guitar in the first place: because it's fun! If practice feels like a chore, you're less likely to stick with it. Try playing along with the backing track of "Scandal" (you can find these online). Jamming along with the music, even if you're not playing it perfectly, is a great way to build your musicality and keep your motivation high. Experiment with different tempos, different feels, and even try improvising over the chord progression. The Scandal Baby Chord is a gateway to exploring a legendary song, so enjoy the journey!

Conclusion: Rock On with the Scandal Baby Chord!

And there you have it, guitar heroes! We've journeyed through the iconic Scandal Baby Chord, dissecting its foundation in the G major, breaking down the electrifying riff from Queen's "Scandal," and even exploring some advanced techniques to spice things up. Whether you're a beginner just getting your fingers around the fretboard or a seasoned player looking to add some serious rock swagger to your repertoire, this chord and riff offer a fantastic challenge and a rewarding experience. Remember, the magic isn't just in the notes themselves, but in the way you play them – with passion, precision, and that undeniable Queen attitude.

Keep practicing those slow, deliberate movements, focus on clean transitions, and most importantly, have fun with it! The Scandal Baby Chord is more than just a set of finger positions; it's a key to unlocking one of rock's most celebrated anthems. So go forth, strum with confidence, and let the spirit of "Scandal" empower your playing. Rock on, guys!