Don't Speak by No Doubt

Fleetwood Mac weren’t the only band to get classic songs out of inter-band relationships: Like most of the Tragic Kingdom album “Don’t Speak” was about the breakup between singer Gwen Stefani and bassist Tony Kanal. But as the lyrics bear out, they’re one of the few rock’n’roll ex-couples who’ve stayed close as friends and collaborators; Stefani even insisted that Kanal not leave the band after he broke up with her.

Gossip aside, this song marked a turning point for the band; away from the punk-ska sound they’d been known for. From then on, the band and Stefani would be known as serious pop hitmakers.

Though it’s one of the best-known songs of No Doubt’s career, “Don’t Speak” wasn’t technically a hit single; because it never was released as a commercial single.

On bass, beware of the triplet rhythm at the end of the chorus. If you get cocky you can lose a combo there. Be sure to hold the sustains for full length to obtain all the points.

The guitar part incorporates some of everything, with a lot of HOPOs in the solo. Get ready for a lesson in three-gem chords, because the chorus is full of them.

If you don’t have the song committed to memory, the vocal entrance may prove tricky. Pay attention to the guitar and it will help you find the first note.

No Doubt came together in 2008 to make their first album in four years; it’s set for release in 2009.