← Browse

Technique Lesson

Is Heavy Metal Actually MAJOR? Black Sabbath • War Pigs

IntermediateBarre ChordsMarty Music
1:25/28K views/Mar 2026
1:25·28K views·Mar 2026·Released 1970·Taught by Marty Music
Barre ChordsMetalKey of D minor76 BPM
Listen on Spotify

How's it hit?

Chords

i-III-VII-VI

What you'll learn

  • How major thirds function in heavy metal
  • The relationship between major chords and minor keys in metal
  • Chord construction in 'War Pigs'

About this lesson

Most people assume heavy metal lives in minor keys — dark, brooding, minor all the way. But Black Sabbath actually breaks that rule constantly. "War Pigs," one of the heaviest songs ever written, leans on a major third — the same building block you'd find in a bright, uplifting major chord. It's a little deceiving when you think about it. Players like Tony Iommi mastered this idea—mixing major elements into heavy riffs to create tension and character. Try experimenting with adding a major third into your riffs. You might be surprised how heavy it can still sound. 🔥 🎶 Grab the FREE Boss Katana patch I used here: bit.ly/bossmarty Thanks to @BOSSinfoglobal 🎸

Notes

Keep going

Next to learn