That famous guitar rift at the beginning of this 2003 song was the first part written by Jack White in 2002. The rest of the song flowed pretty easily after that. Jack plays both traditional and slide guitar on this song, as well as providing vocals. Meg White's drum beat keeps time.
But the song is more than that. It's an anthem at sporting events. It's a rallying cry for political rallies. It was a catalyst for a growing garage band movement, based on how incredibly sparse the song actually is - able to be played by a band of 2 or 3 people.
Propelled by one riff - that furious, descending sequence of chords at the core of 'Seven Nation Army' - Elephant has sold 3.5 million copies worldwide - which feels unthinkable even to those like. White Stripes – “Seven Nation Army” (Riff) Dig out your red shirt and pants, cause today we’re learning the main riff to “7 Nation Army” Cream – “Sunshine of Your Love” (Riff). Add 'Seven Nation Army' by The White Stripes to your Rock Band™ song library.
Of course, the White Stripes broke up in 2011, but we still have these songs and performances to remember them by. Take this show from 2005, in Brazil - proof positive that you can play this song with a band of 2.
Seven Nation Army Garageband Drums
Seven Nation Army Garageband
Also, can we talk about how happy Meg looks on the drums?