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Queen - Keep Passing The Open Windows - Guitar Solo Tutorial (Guitar Tab)

2,408 views · Published 17 December 2014 · 8:52 · Indexed 6 November 2026

Channel: James Rundle · 2014 · Music

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QUEEN - KEEP PASSING THE OPEN WINDOWS - GUITAR TUTORIAL

Queen - Keep Passing The Open Windows | Guitar Lesson & Tutorial

Dive into the upbeat and melodic world of Queen’s 1984 classic, "Keep Passing The Open Windows" from the album The Works.

In this guitar lesson, I break down Brian May’s signature layering, from the punchy rhythm parts to those intricate melodic fills that weave around Freddie Mercury’s piano lines. This track is a masterclass in how to play "economically" while still delivering that massive Queen sound.

🎸 What You'll Learn:

• The driving rhythm patterns used in the verses and choruses.

• Brian May’s specific chord voicings to get that authentic "Red Special" chime.

• The transition between the piano-led sections and the guitar-heavy bridge.

• Key tips for achieving a mid-80s Queen studio tone.
🎵 Song Facts: "Keep Passing The Open Windows"

• The Origin: The song was originally written by Freddie Mercury for the film adaptation of John Irving’s novel The Hotel New Hampshire. While the band ultimately didn't do the full soundtrack, they kept this gem for The Works.

• The Catchphrase: The title and lyrics come from a recurring phrase in the novel, used by the family as a way to encourage each other to keep going and "not jump"—essentially a message of perseverance and mental strength.

• Musical Structure: It is one of the few Queen songs that features a prominent, driving bassline (played by John Deacon) that matches the energy of the piano and guitar perfectly.

• Studio Technique: Brian May used multiple overdubs to create the "orchestral" guitar feel during the bridge, using his Vox AC30s pushed to the limit with a treble booster.

• Hidden Gem: Despite its infectious energy and positive message, the song was never performed live by the original line-up of Queen, making it a true "deep cut" for fans to learn.
Tone & Gear Tips:

• Pickup Selection: Try the bridge and middle pickups in phase for the rhythm, or the neck and middle out of phase for those thinner, decorative fills.

• Amp Settings: Aim for a "cranked" tube sound with plenty of sustain, but keep the volume on your guitar slightly rolled back to clean up the verses.

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If you’re enjoying these Queen tutorials, make sure to LIKE the video, SUBSCRIBE, and comment below which song from The Works I should cover next!

#Queen #BrianMay #KeepPassingTheOpenWindows #TheWorks #GuitarLesson #FreddieMercury #JohnDeacon #RedSpecial #guitartutorial .

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