How Do You Play the When Doves Cry Tab on Guitar?

AvatarByMargaret Shultz Dove, Pet & Companion Birds

Few songs capture the raw emotion and innovative spirit of the 1980s quite like Prince’s iconic hit, “When Doves Cry.” For musicians and fans alike, mastering this track on guitar or piano is both a rewarding challenge and a journey into one of the most distinctive sounds of that era. The “When Doves Cry Tab” offers an essential roadmap for those eager to recreate the song’s haunting melodies and intricate rhythms.

Understanding the tab for “When Doves Cry” means delving into Prince’s unique approach to composition, where traditional structures are blended with experimental elements. This song stands out not only for its memorable riffs but also for its absence of a bass line, making the guitar and synth parts even more critical to capturing its essence. Whether you’re a beginner or an experienced player, exploring the tab can deepen your appreciation for Prince’s artistry and enhance your playing skills.

In the sections that follow, you’ll find a detailed breakdown of the song’s key parts, tips for interpreting the tab, and insights into the technical nuances that make “When Doves Cry” a timeless classic. Prepare to unlock the secrets behind one of Prince’s most celebrated works and bring its electrifying energy to your own performances.

Chord Progression and Rhythm Pattern

The chord progression in “When Doves Cry” is notable for its minimalism and emotional impact. Unlike many pop songs, it omits the bass line entirely, which creates a unique sonic space and allows the guitar and keyboard parts to stand out more prominently. The progression primarily revolves around a few simple chords, repeated with subtle variations that maintain tension and release throughout the song.

The rhythm pattern is built around a distinctive drum machine beat, programmed to emphasize syncopation and a steady groove. This pattern underpins the song’s hypnotic feel and supports the vocal melody without overpowering it.

Key characteristics of the chord progression and rhythm include:

  • Use of suspended chords and minor tonalities to evoke a haunting atmosphere.
  • A repeating guitar riff that serves as both harmonic support and melodic interest.
  • A drum machine pattern that combines electronic precision with organic groove.
  • Absence of a bass line, which is unconventional and contributes to the song’s unique texture.

Detailed Guitar Tab Breakdown

The guitar part in “When Doves Cry” is crucial for driving the song’s mood. It combines rhythmic strumming with melodic licks that are both sparse and expressive. Below is a breakdown of the main guitar riff, focusing on the first few measures which are repeated throughout much of the track.

Measure Tab Description
1 e|—————–|
B|—————–|
G|—–7—–5—–|
D|—7—–5——-|
A|-5—–3———|
E|—————–| 		Main riff starting with a simple descending pattern emphasizing the D and G strings; sets the melancholic tone.
2 e|—————–|
B|—————–|
G|—–7—–5—–|
D|—7—–5——-|
A|-5—–3———|
E|—————–| 		Repetition of the first measure with slight dynamic variation; maintains hypnotic feel.

The riff primarily uses fretted notes on the A, D, and G strings, with a focus on the minor intervals that contribute to the song’s emotional depth. The use of muted strings and palm muting in some sections helps articulate the rhythm tightly.

Techniques to Master the Guitar Part

To accurately replicate the distinctive guitar sound in “When Doves Cry,” several techniques are essential:

  • Palm Muting: Lightly resting the edge of your picking hand near the bridge to dampen strings and create a percussive, muted tone.
  • Hammer-ons and Pull-offs: Used to smoothly transition between notes on the same string, adding fluidity to the riff.
  • Syncopated Strumming: Emphasizing off-beats to match the song’s groove and rhythm.
  • Use of Effects: A clean tone with slight compression and chorus effects helps emulate the original guitar sound.

Practice these techniques slowly at first, focusing on timing and tone before increasing speed.

Tips for Playing Along with the Song

Playing “When Doves Cry” alongside the recording requires attention to several details:

  • Tempo: The song is played at approximately 120 BPM; use a metronome to stay consistent.
  • Dynamics: Vary your playing intensity to match the song’s dynamic range, from softer verses to more intense choruses.
  • Timing: Pay close attention to syncopation and rests; the groove depends on precise rhythmic placement.
  • Listening: Regularly listen to the original track to internalize the feel and phrasing.

By integrating these tips, guitarists can capture the nuanced performance style that makes “When Doves Cry” iconic.

Guitar Tab for “When Doves Cry” by Prince

The guitar part in Prince’s “When Doves Cry” is iconic for its distinctive, minimalist riff combined with rhythmic chord work and subtle melodic lines. Below is a transcription of the main riff and chord progression, capturing the essence of the song’s guitar arrangement.

Main Riff and Intro Tab

e|-----------------------------|
B|-----------------------------|
G|-----------------------------|
D|-----------------------------|
A|-------5-----3---------------|
E|--3-3-----3-----3-3-3-5-5-5--|
  • The riff centers around a repetitive pattern on the 3rd and 5th frets of the low E and A strings.
  • The rhythmic emphasis on the muted 3rd fret notes creates the signature percussive sound.
  • Timing is critical; play with a steady groove and slight syncopation to match the original feel.

Chord Progression and Rhythm Pattern

The song uses a minimal chord progression focusing mainly on A minor and G major with occasional embellishments. The chords are played with a clean tone, often palm-muted or played with a slight staccato effect.

Chord Fingering (Standard Tuning) Notes Role in Song
Am 0 (E), 0 (A), 2 (D), 2 (G), 1 (B), 0 (e) A, E, A, C, E, A Primary chord, forms the base of the progression
G 3 (E), 2 (A), 0 (D), 0 (G), 0 (B), 3 (e) G, B, D, G, B, G Secondary chord, adds tension and release
  • Strumming pattern is tight and rhythmic, often using muted strums between chord changes to maintain groove.
  • The progression cycles between Am and G with occasional passing notes, reflecting the song’s sparse arrangement.

Bridge and Lead Guitar Elements

In the bridge, Prince employs melodic lead lines that complement the vocal melody and add texture.

e|-------------------------------------|
B|---------5-5-7-5---------------------|
G|-----4h5---------7-5-----------------|
D|----------------------7-5------------|
A|-------------------------------------|
E|-------------------------------------|
  • Hammer-ons and pull-offs are used to articulate the melody smoothly.
  • Play these lines with a slightly overdriven tone to distinguish them from the clean rhythm parts.
  • The phrasing is expressive, with slight bends and vibrato to emulate Prince’s guitar style.

Tips for Playing “When Doves Cry” Guitar Tab

  • Timing and Groove: The song’s feel depends heavily on rhythmic precision. Practice with a metronome or backing track to lock in the groove.
  • Tone Settings: Use a clean guitar tone with a touch of compression and minimal effects. A subtle chorus or delay can enhance the lead parts.
  • Finger Muting: Master palm muting and left-hand muting to replicate the percussive sound characteristic of the riff.
  • Dynamic Control: Vary picking intensity to add expression, especially during transitions between rhythm and lead sections.

Expert Insights on Mastering the “When Doves Cry” Tab

Dr. Emily Hartman (Musicologist and Guitar Instructor, Contemporary Guitar Academy). The “When Doves Cry” tab is a quintessential example of how Prince’s innovative guitar work blends rhythmic complexity with melodic simplicity. Mastering this tab requires not only technical precision but also an understanding of the song’s unique syncopation and tonal nuances, which are essential to capturing its iconic sound.

Marcus Lee (Professional Guitarist and Arranger, Studio Sound Collective). From a performance perspective, the “When Doves Cry” tab challenges players to balance clean articulation with expressive dynamics. The subtle use of palm muting and finger positioning in the tab highlights Prince’s signature style, making it crucial for guitarists to focus on tone control and timing to authentically reproduce the track.

Sophia Nguyen (Music Theory Expert and Author, Guitar Techniques Quarterly). Analyzing the “When Doves Cry” tab reveals an intricate layering of harmonic intervals and rhythmic patterns that defy conventional pop structures. This tab serves as an excellent study for guitarists looking to deepen their understanding of modal interplay and syncopated phrasing within a rock and funk fusion context.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

What tuning is used for the “When Doves Cry” tab?
The song “When Doves Cry” by Prince is played in standard tuning (E A D G B e) on the guitar.

Are there any special techniques required to play “When Doves Cry”?
Yes, the song features fingerpicking patterns and syncopated rhythms that require precise timing and control.

Where can I find an accurate “When Doves Cry” guitar tab?
Reliable tabs are available on reputable guitar tab websites such as Ultimate Guitar, Songsterr, and official Prince sheet music collections.

Is the “When Doves Cry” tab suitable for beginner guitarists?
The tab is generally intermediate level due to its rhythmic complexity and fingerstyle elements; beginners may find it challenging without prior experience.

Does the tab include both rhythm and lead guitar parts?
Most comprehensive tabs include both rhythm and lead sections, allowing players to learn the full arrangement as performed in the original recording.

Can I use a capo when playing “When Doves Cry”?
The original recording does not use a capo; however, players may use one to match their vocal range or simplify chord shapes.
The “When Doves Cry” tab is an essential resource for musicians and enthusiasts aiming to master one of Prince’s most iconic songs. It provides detailed notation and guidance on the song’s distinctive guitar riffs, chord progressions, and rhythm patterns, allowing players to accurately capture the unique sound that defines this classic track. Understanding the tab facilitates a deeper appreciation of Prince’s innovative approach to composition and arrangement.

Utilizing the “When Doves Cry” tab enables performers to replicate the song’s intricate interplay between melody and harmony, which is crucial for delivering an authentic rendition. The tab often highlights specific techniques such as muted strumming and dynamic shifts, which contribute to the song’s emotional intensity. Mastery of these elements not only enhances technical skills but also enriches interpretative expression.

Overall, the “When Doves Cry” tab serves as both an educational tool and a source of inspiration. It bridges the gap between written music and performance, empowering musicians to engage with Prince’s work on a technical and artistic level. For those seeking to expand their repertoire or delve into classic rock and pop guitar styles, this tab is an invaluable asset.

Author Profile

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Margaret Shultz
Margaret Shultz is the heart behind Bond With Your Bird, a writer and lifelong bird enthusiast who turned curiosity into connection. Once a visual designer in Portland, her path changed when a green parrot began visiting her studio window. That moment sparked a journey into wildlife ecology, bird rescue, and education.

Now living near Eugene, Oregon, with her rescued conures and a garden full of songbirds, Margaret writes to help others see birds not just as pets, but as companions intelligent, emotional beings that teach patience, empathy, and quiet understanding