Muse’s fourth studio LP—2006’s Black Holes and Revelations—found the English trio sustaining their progressive/alternative rock foundations amidst incorporating styles such as dance-rock and funk rock. It was hugely successful commercially and critically, and a major reason why was lead single “Supermassive Black Hole.” Built upon a disco beat, distortedly funky guitar riffs, and alluring high-pitched singing, “Supermassive Black Hole” endures as one of their most popular songs. Read about the seductively sleek rocker and learn how to get its sound with the BOSS Katana.
About the Song
As songwriter/vocalist/guitarist Matt Bellamy revealed to Hot Press, “Supermassive Black Hole” finds the band “comparing a woman to the center of the galaxy, as this gigantic black hole that you powerlessly get sucked into.” It remains their highest-charting single in the UK—at No. 4—and was nominated for Best Single at the Kerrang! Awards (but lost to Bullet for My Valentine’s “Tears Don’t Fall”).
Bellamy also told French publication Rock Mag: “We’ve had some Belgian influences: Millionaire, dEUS, Evil Superstars, Soulwax. These groups were the first to mix R&B rhythms with alternative guitar. We’ve mixed a lot of things in this track, with a bit of electronica.”
In addition to being adapted into an experimental music video, the tune appears in various video games, TV shows, and movies such as FIFA 07, Guitar Hero III, Doctor Who, Black Mirror, and Twilight.
Breaking It Down
In contrast to the innocuously glittery romance of its predecessor, “Starlight,” “Supermassive Black Hole” oozes sinister lust as it oscillates between the keys of E Phrygian, G Major, and C Major.
Dominic Howard’s snappy programmed percussion leads the charge alongside Christopher Wolstenholme’s feisty bass playing. Of course, Bellmay’s fuzzy guitar licks are domineeringly tempting, too, and his falsetto flirtations and metaphorical chorus easily ensnare listeners.
Throw in his titular whispers during the bridge and his spacey guitar solo near the end, and you have an irresistible gem. “Supermassive Black Hole” foreshadows the electronic pop-rock Muse produced during the 2010s and beyond.
"Throw in his titular whispers during the bridge and his spacey guitar solo near the end, and you have an irresistible gem."
Learn the Licks
In a video on the Marty Music channel, Marty Schwartz personably walks viewers through the intro/main riff, verse, and chorus of “Supermassive Black Hole.” Using a BOSS Katana patch, he starts in standard tuning and advises viewers to mute whichever string they aren’t playing. The instructor demonstrates doubling notes during subsequent measures, plus half-step bending and hammer-on/pull-off techniques for certain licks.
"The verse starts with an open E before adding a 'microtonal' bend on the third fret."
From there, Schwartz explains that the verse starts with an open E before adding a “microtonal” bend on the third fret. He then alternates power chords and clarifies that Bellamy’s licks reoccur in different places. The chorus is just as simple yet fun to play. Schwartz notes that you can perform it with “single notes, octaves, or power chords.” He prefers octaves, though, and reveals his chromatic method before concluding his step-by-step lesson.
Once you’ve checked out the clip, visit BOSS Tone Exchange to download the “Super Muse” Katana patch and replicate Muse’s magnificent composition like a true rock star.
DOWNLOAD
"Super Muse" Patch for BOSS Katana MkII
- In the style of “Supermassive Black Hole” by Muse
