Practice Studio

Steppenwolf - Born to Be Wild - Guitar Tab

Sections · Loop · Speed · Metronome

Not in tune?

Select a Loop

Start of your loop
End of your loop

Speed Control

Speed
100%

Tools

BPM
Key E minor
·
–50¢ 0 +50¢
· Tap to start

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Amp Settings

Classic Rock

Gain6
Bass6
Mid7
Treble6
Presence5
Master7
AI tone preset

AI-selected preset based on genre and era — adjust the knobs to taste.

Roll back the gain slightly and pick near the neck for a warmer, more open crunch.

Steppenwolf Rock E minor
Capo Advisor 0 E minor · Original key

About Born to Be Wild


Born To Be Wild by Steppenwolf is an iconic rock anthem that defines the classic rock sound. Its driving rhythm, heavy guitar riff, and straightforward chord progression make it an excellent choice for electric guitar learners wanting to master rock fundamentals and develop strong rhythm playing skills.

  • The opening guitar riff is one of rock's most recognizable and beginner-friendly power chord patterns.
  • Features a straightforward 12-bar blues-influenced structure that teaches essential rhythm guitar techniques.
  • Known for its cultural impact as a counterculture anthem, making it a staple in rock guitar education.

How to Play Born to Be Wild

Tuning: E Standard · Key: E minor · Tempo: 146 BPM

Use the section loop to isolate a passage, drop the speed below 100%, and set the metronome to 146 BPM to build it up to tempo.

Fender Stratocaster
Guitar

Fender Stratocaster

Michael Monarch's Fender Stratocaster delivered the bright, cutting tone essential to Steppenwolf's hard rock rhythm work, with single-coil pickups providing articulation that cut through the band's dense mix. Paired with his Marshall amp pushed into natural saturation, the Strat's inherent snap made riffs punch without needing additional effects.