Write the intro
Establish the song's identity
Write a four-bar opening that makes the listener recognize the song before the verse begins. Leave space for the backing track instead of filling every subdivision.
Video walkthrough placeholder
Add Matt's explanation and writing demonstration for this section before release.
Watch the challenge
Write the intro: concept and writing process
Explain the musical concept, demonstrate the new technique, then show how you make decisions without presenting your riff as the only correct answer.
Musical concept
E Phrygian and the flattened second
Phrygian is a minor mode with a flattened second degree. In E, the half-step from E to F creates the tense, dark pull that identifies the mode; resolve F back to E so it sounds intentional rather than random.
- Notes
- E · F · G · A · B · C · D
- Key-signature context
- No sharps or flats. E is the tonal center, even though the same notes belong to C major.
New guitar technique
Strict downstrokes
Pick every attack downward with a small wrist motion. Use the pick depth and palm pressure to keep repeated low-E notes even; slow down if your forearm starts driving the motion.
Section rule: E Phrygian — prioritize E, F, G, and D
Scale and chord tab
Downloadable reference for this section's scale, chord shapes, and technique example.
Play the backing track
110 BPM · 4/4 · E standard context
Write the intro — drums and bass
Write the intro — drums only
Finish line
Play the four bars twice with the track without losing the pulse.
Prototype audio disclosure: these local review tracks are original procedural drums-and-bass guides, not founder performances or final production masters. Replace them and complete musician/device QA before any paid launch.