Chris Benoit Theme Song Tab: Guitar And Bass

Oct 23, 2025 by Jhon Lennon 45 views

What's up, guitar and bass shredders! Today, we're diving deep into the iconic theme song of a wrestler who left a massive mark on the industry: Chris Benoit. His entrance music was as intense and powerful as his in-ring performances, and learning to play it on your instrument is a seriously rewarding challenge. We're going to break down the tab for both guitar and bass, making it accessible for intermediate players looking to add some serious bangers to their repertoire. So grab your axe, tune up that low E string, and let's get ready to unleash the 'Rabid Wolverine'!

The Guitar Riff: Unleashing the Fury

Alright guys, let's talk guitar. The main riff of Chris Benoit's theme is all about that driving, aggressive energy. It's not overly complicated, but it requires precision and a good sense of rhythm to nail. The key here is to maintain a consistent palm muting technique, which will give you that tight, percussive sound that defines the track. We're looking for a raw, powerful tone, so don't be afraid to crank up that distortion a bit. Think thick, crunchy power chords and rapid-fire single notes. This riff isn't just about hitting the right notes; it's about how you hit them. The palm muting is crucial for that aggressive feel, and practicing it will seriously level up your rhythm playing. Make sure your picking hand is locked in, consistent, and controlled. This will allow the notes to ring out with the right amount of sustain and attack. Don't rush it; focus on getting the feel right first, and the speed will come. It’s a riff that’s instantly recognizable and, once you get it down, it’s incredibly satisfying to play. We'll start with the core structure of the riff and then look at how to add those little embellishments that make it sound authentic. Remember, it's called 'The Crippler Crossface' for a reason – it's designed to leave a lasting impression, and your guitar playing should too. So, let's get into the nitty-gritty of the tab itself, focusing on those power chords and the signature descending melody that makes this riff so iconic. We're talking about a technique that requires a solid foundation in power chord strumming and the ability to seamlessly transition between muted and open strings. It’s a riff that demands attention, much like Benoit himself did in the squared circle. The initial part of the riff is built around E minor, so expect a lot of E5 power chords. But it's the way these chords are punctuated with fast, descending single notes that really give it its distinctive character. We'll break down each section, providing clear tab notation so you can follow along easily. It’s not just about memorizing notes; it’s about understanding the structure and the feel. Practice with a metronome to really lock in the timing, because this riff is all about precision and power. The energy needs to be palpable, and that comes from a tight, controlled execution. So, get ready to feel the intensity, guys, because we're about to tackle one of the most memorable entrance themes in wrestling history. It’s a journey that requires patience, practice, and a whole lot of grit, just like any true wrestling champion. Let’s do this!

Main Riff (Guitar)

Here's the core of the guitar part. Focus on that palm muting (indicated by 'PM' below the tab) and hitting those power chords with conviction.

E|--------------------------------------------------------------------------|
B|--------------------------------------------------------------------------|
G|--------------------------------------------------------------------------|
D|--2---2-2-2---5-4---2---2-2-2---5-4---------------------------------------|
A|--2---2-2-2---5-4---2---2-2-2---5-4---------------------------------------|
E|--0---0-0-0---3-2---0---0-0-0---3-2---------------------------------------|
     PM-------|     PM-------|

Explanation:

The riff starts with a heavy, palm-muted E5 power chord (022xxx). You'll want to keep this section tight and driving.
The quick descending line 5-4 on the D and A strings (played against the muted E string) is what gives it that signature edge. These are fret numbers, so on the D string, you're playing the 5th and 4th frets, and similarly on the A string.
The pattern repeats, so consistency is key. Make sure your palm muting is solid throughout.

Adding the Melody Lines

After the main power chord section, there are some melodic fills that add that extra layer of intensity. These are usually played slightly faster and with more emphasis.

E|--------------------------------------------------------------------------|
B|--------------------------------------------------------------------------|
G|--9--9--7--6--------------------------------------------------------------|
D|--------------------------------------------------------------------------|
A|--------------------------------------------------------------------------|
E|--------------------------------------------------------------------------|

Explanation:

These notes typically come after a few repetitions of the main riff. They're higher up the neck and add a sense of urgency.
The notes 9-9-7-6 are played on the G string. These are played with a bit more attack, so ease up slightly on the palm mute here, or lift it entirely for these notes.
Listen to the original track to get the timing and feel exactly right. It's often played quite aggressively.

The Bridge/Breakdown

There's a section that often feels like a bit of a breakdown, where the riff might slow down slightly or change its rhythmic feel before building back up. This is where you can really play with dynamics.

E|--------------------------------------------------------------------------|
B|--------------------------------------------------------------------------|
G|--------------------------------------------------------------------------|
D|--7-----7-----7-----7-----5-----5-----5-----5-----------------------------|
A|--7-----7-----7-----7-----5-----5-----5-----5-----------------------------|
E|--5-----5-----5-----5-----3-----3-----3-----3-----------------------------|

Explanation:

This section shifts to C5 (577xxx) and G5 (355xxx) power chords. The rhythm here can be a bit more sparse, allowing each chord to ring out more, or it can be played with a heavy, syncopated feel depending on the specific version you're learning.
The key is to make this section feel heavier and more impactful before returning to the main, faster riff. Think about dropping your pick and digging in for these chords.

The Bass Line: The Backbone of the Riff

Now, let's switch gears and talk bass guitar, guys. The bass line for Chris Benoit's theme is absolutely crucial for laying down that heavy, driving foundation. It mirrors a lot of the guitar's riff but with that distinct low-end punch that only a bass can provide. If you’re a bassist, this is your time to shine and show everyone how you anchor the entire track. We're talking about a part that's not overly complex in terms of technique, but it demands a strong sense of timing and the ability to play with power and clarity. The goal here is to lock in tightly with the drummer and the guitar, creating a unified wall of sound. Don't just play the notes; feel the groove. We want that gritty, distorted bass tone that complements the guitar's aggression. Think about using a pick for extra attack, or if you're a fingerstyle player, dig in hard to get that bite. This bass line is the engine of the song, providing the crucial low-end energy that makes the theme so memorable and impactful. We'll break down the main riff, focusing on the root notes and the rhythmic patterns that make it so effective. It’s about providing that solid, unwavering foundation that the guitar can build upon. The bass isn't just accompaniment; it's a vital component of the song's identity, and this theme is no exception. Getting the timing perfect is paramount. Even a slight deviation can throw off the whole feel. So, get ready to feel the rumble, because we're about to tackle the bass part that drives this iconic theme song. It’s a testament to how a simple, well-executed bass line can elevate an entire track. Let's get those fingers moving!

Main Riff (Bass)

Similar to the guitar, the bass line is built around the E power chord, but the rhythm and the specific notes played create that signature drive.

E|--------------------------------------------------------------------------|
A|--------------------------------------------------------------------------|
D|--------------------------------------------------------------------------|
G|--9---9-9-9---12-11---9---9-9-9---12-11-----------------------------------|

Explanation:

The bass line often follows the root notes of the power chords, so you're primarily on the low E and A strings. In this case, the root is E, which on the bass is typically played on the open E string or the 7th fret of the A string. However, many transcriptions and live performances indicate a higher voicing for the main riff, as shown above on the G string (which is tuned a fifth higher than the guitar's E string, so G string on bass corresponds to D string on guitar in terms of note pitch). If you're playing a standard 4-string bass (E-A-D-G), the notes 9-9-9-12-11 on the G string correspond to B, B, B, E, D. If you're using the lower strings, the E power chord root is on the 7th fret of the A string (A-E = 7th fret on A string for E note) and the G power chord root is on the 3rd fret of the E string (E-G = 3rd fret on E string for G note). For simplicity and to match the guitar's feel, we'll use the G string voicing here, but feel free to adapt! The pattern is E, E, E, G, F# (or E, E, E, B, A if you're thinking chromatically on the lower strings in context).
The 9-9-9 part represents playing the same note three times, often with a strong attack. These are typically palm-muted or played with a tight, percussive feel.
The 12-11 are the quick descending notes. These add that punch and urgency.
Listen closely to the original track to get the exact rhythmic feel. Bassists often add subtle variations to make the riff groove.

Connecting to the Guitar

As a bassist, your job is to provide a solid rhythmic and harmonic foundation. When playing this theme, make sure you're locking in tightly with the drummer's kick drum and snare, and supporting the guitar's power chords. The bass line should feel powerful and driving, never getting lost in the mix. It’s all about that low-end impact. You are the glue that holds the heavy sound together. The subtle nuances of your attack and muting can make a huge difference in how the overall riff feels. Experiment with fingerstyle versus pick playing to see what gives you the most satisfying aggressive tone. Don't be afraid to add a touch of overdrive or distortion to your bass tone to match the guitar's intensity. This isn't a subtle song; it's meant to be heard and felt, and your bass playing is key to achieving that effect. Think of yourself as the engine room, providing the raw power that drives the entire theme. The interplay between the bass and guitar is what makes this riff so iconic. When you're playing together, ensure your rhythms are perfectly aligned. This requires focused listening and constant communication, even if you're just jamming solo and playing both parts. The descending notes (12-11) should feel like a unified push forward, propelling the riff into the next section.

The Breakdown on Bass

Just like the guitar part, the bass also gets to play those heavier, often slower power chords in the breakdown section. This is where you can really make your bass sound huge.

E|--------------------------------------------------------------------------|
A|--------------------------------------------------------------------------|
D|--------------------------------------------------------------------------|
G|--5-----5-----5-----5-----3-----3-----3-----3-----------------------------|

Explanation:

These notes correspond to the C5 and G5 power chords. On bass, the C root is often played on the 3rd fret of the A string or the 10th fret of the G string. The G root is on the 5th fret of the E string or the 12th fret of the D string. If you're following the pattern of the guitar section, these would be the C and G notes played on the G string (frets 5 and 3 respectively).
Let these chords ring out a bit more than the fast riff, or use a syncopated rhythm to build tension.
This is your moment to provide that seismic low-end rumble. Dig in!

Putting It All Together: Practice Tips for Success

So, you've got the tabs for both guitar and bass. Awesome! Now comes the real work, guys: practicing. Learning these riffs isn't just about memorizing notes; it's about capturing the energy and aggression of Chris Benoit's theme. Here are some tips to help you nail it:

Listen, Listen, Listen: Before you even pick up your instrument, listen to the theme song repeatedly. Pay attention to the rhythm, the dynamics, and how the guitar and bass parts interact. Try to air guitar or air bass along to it. Internalize the feel.
Start Slow: Don't try to play at full speed right away. Use a metronome and start at a tempo where you can play every note cleanly and accurately. Gradually increase the speed as you get more comfortable.
Focus on Palm Muting: This is arguably the most critical technique for this theme. Practice your palm muting until it's consistent and tight. Experiment with different hand positions to find what works best for you.
Get Your Tone Right: If you're playing electric guitar or bass, experiment with your amp and effects settings. You'll want a distorted, aggressive tone. For guitar, a good crunch or high-gain setting is ideal. For bass, consider a bit of overdrive or distortion to cut through the mix.
Practice Both Parts (Even if You Only Play One): If you play guitar, try learning the bass line and vice-versa. This will give you a deeper understanding of how the two parts work together and make you a more well-rounded musician.
Isolate Sections: Don't try to learn the whole song at once. Break it down into smaller sections (the main riff, the melodic fill, the breakdown) and master each one before moving on. Loop tricky parts until they're second nature.
Play with the Original Track: Once you're comfortable with the parts, try playing along with the original recording. This will help you fine-tune your timing and dynamics.

The Importance of Rhythm and Feel

The beauty of Chris Benoit's theme lies not just in its notes, but in its rhythm and feel. This is a track that demands power and precision. When you're practicing the guitar riff, focus on the palm muting. It's what gives the power chords their percussive attack and prevents them from becoming muddy. Try to make each muted strum sound almost like a drum hit. For the bass player, locking in with the kick drum is absolutely paramount. If your bass line and the kick drum are perfectly in sync, you create an irresistible groove that drives the song forward. The descending single notes in both parts are where the tension builds. These need to be played with a sharp attack and clear articulation. Don't let them sound sloppy. It's the contrast between the tight, muted power chords and these more pronounced melodic lines that gives the riff its dynamic range and excitement. Remember, this theme was designed to get the crowd pumped up, and that energy needs to come through in your playing. If you're feeling the music, the listener will too. So, dig deep, guys, and channel that intensity. It’s about more than just hitting the notes; it’s about making them hit back. This is where dedicated practice truly pays off, transforming a collection of notes on a page into a powerful musical statement. Pay attention to the subtle pauses and accents; they are as important as the notes themselves in conveying the song's aggressive spirit. The silence between the notes is just as powerful as the notes themselves in creating tension and release.

Conclusion: Channeling the Intensity

Learning Chris Benoit's theme song tab is a fantastic way to hone your skills on guitar or bass, and to pay homage to a truly intense wrestler whose entrance music became synonymous with his persona. Whether you're focusing on the driving power chords, the sharp melodic fills, or the foundational bass line, remember that feel and rhythm are just as important as hitting the right notes. So keep practicing, keep listening, and most importantly, keep playing with that signature intensity. You've got the tools, now go unleash the fury! This is a theme that resonates with power and a certain raw, unadulterated energy, and by learning to play it, you're tapping into that same spirit. It’s a challenging but incredibly rewarding piece of music to master. So, crank up the distortion, lock in your rhythm, and get ready to bring the house down. You guys have what it takes to nail this! Until next time, keep shredding!