🚨 [UPDATE: Intro & Riff]
I’ve further refined the intro chords and the exact riff entry mechanics in a new video. Watch the fully corrected version here:
[UPDATE: Correction and Refined Analysis]
To be honest, I realized that my initial interpretation of the intro and chorus was incorrect. After revisiting the official MV and learning from some brilliant covers and insights within the community, I’ve found a much more authentic voicing that I had missed.
The true “Stones magic” comes from this hybrid shape:
D6 – Em7 (with Piano playing the 9th) – G
D6: (7-7-7-0-0)
Fretting the 5th, 4th, and 3rd strings at the 7th fret. While the 1st string is also a D, pressing the 3rd string provides a much thicker, woodier resonance that is essential for that signature Keith sound. The 2nd string remains open (B) to add the sweet 6th interval.
Em7: (9-9-0-0-0)
Fretting only the 5th and 4th strings at the 9th fret. The 3rd string rings open (G) to give it that clear minor 3rd feel. While you might hear a lush 9th extension, that’s actually the piano interlocking with the guitar’s Em7 shape!
G: (12-12-0-0-0)
Parallel movement to the 12th fret.
I apologize for the error in the main TAB, but I’m committed to sharing the most accurate sounds with you. Thank you for the inspiration from the community!
A technical breakdown of Keith Richards’ signature Open G style on “In The Stars”!
The official music video just dropped, featuring that incredible AI-generated throwback of Mick, Keith, and Ronnie. But while the video gives us a visual fantasy, this lesson goes deep into the gritty musical mechanics of the track.
This video analyzes the core rhythmic syncopation of the main riffs and the essential techniques for mastering Keith’s unique Open G approach. Through this masterclass, we combine practical guitar instruction with deep stylistic analysis to provide the insights you need to capture the authentic Rolling Stones sound.
Whether you’re a long-time fan or a guitarist looking to sharpen your rhythm, this masterclass covers everything you need to know.
🎸 Tuning Info
Open G Tuning: D – G – D – G – B – D
(Note: Low G on the 5th string is key for that Keith Richards sound!)
⏱️ Timestamps
0:00 – Intro
0:26 – Intro: The 3 Main Building Blocks
1:17 – Song Map & Full Arrangement
1:52 – The 7-Bar Secret: Intro & Chorus Mechanics
3:06 – How to play the 4-Bar Riff
4:45 – Verse
5:22 – Pre-Chorus
6:07 – Chorus
6:39 – Interlude Riff
6:58 – Guitar Solo Structure & Riff Variations
7:45 – Outro: Ending with the Riff Statement
8:17 – Final Thoughts: Fantasy vs. The Mud (Billboard vs. Raw Energy)
9:32 – Ending
🔍 Deep Analysis: Why This Song is Genius
Beyond the chords and tabs, this track offers a masterclass in modern rock production. Here are a few personal insights from my transcription process:
The Priming Effect: Notice how the Intro uses the D – Em – G – G progression. By introducing this catchy sequence early, they “prime” our ears, making the modern-sounding Chorus feel natural and inevitable when it finally arrives. It’s a brilliant move to balance Billboard-conscious production with their classic roots.
Fantasy vs. The Mud: The contrast in this song is fascinating. The Chorus is a melodic “fantasy”—polished and bright—while the Riff is the gritty “mud” of raw rock ‘n’ roll.
The Riff Statement: The decision to end a pop-oriented track with a single 4-bar riff is a powerful statement. It tells us that despite the evolving trends, they are, and always will be, a rock ‘n’ roll band first and foremost. They start with the riff, and they end with the riff. That is the soul of the Rolling Stones.
📸 Pro-Tip for Learners
I’ve optimized the TAB displays to be large and clear for mobile users. Feel free to pause and take a screenshot at each section to help with your practice!
🔽 Music & References
The Rolling Stones – In The Stars (Official Video): https://youtu.be/oT5LwwEHgnc?si=Lqpj-FTaObTnF55J
The Rolling Stones – In The Stars (Official Lyric Video): https://youtu.be/F-F_oHOvBsM
In The Stars (Official Audio): https://youtu.be/hflSrbKrVCs
🎸 Production Note
Performance & Transcription: ShowR
Voice: ShowR AI Clone
Guitars: PRS CE-22 (1994), Fender Japan Stratocaster (1980s), Squier Affinity Telecaster
Software: Logic Pro, Guitar Pro 8, DaVinci Resolve 20
🎸 Feel free to LIKE and SUBSCRIBE! Thank you!
If you enjoyed this deep dive, please hit the Like button and Subscribe for more Stones-style analysis and Open G lessons. Keep on rolling!
https://www.youtube.com/@ShowR
If you like my Channel, feel free to buy me a coffee here! ☕ Thanks for your support!
Choose your currency and amount:
– 🇺🇸 $3 USD: https://www.paypal.me/ShowRGuitar/3USD
– 🇪🇺 €3 EUR: https://www.paypal.me/ShowRGuitar/3EUR
– 🇯🇵 ¥300 JPY: https://www.paypal.me/ShowRGuitar/300JPY
#TheRollingStones #InTheStars #GuitarLesson #GuitarAnalysis #OpenGTuning #KeithRichards #ForeignTongues #GuitarTAB #Stones #MickJagger #RonnieWood
