What "Can't Stop" tabs show you

Guitar tabs for "Can't Stop" are a line-by-line map of where your fingers go on the fretboard to play the Red Hot Chili Peppers song. Each number tells you which fret to press, and the lines represent the six strings of your guitar. The song uses a repeating bass riff in the verses and a different pattern in the chorus, so the tabs change between sections.

The most common version you'll find online is based on the original 1992 recording, which features a funk-influenced bass line played on guitar. Most tabs show this main riff in standard notation format, with numbers stacked vertically when notes play together and spread horizontally when they play one after another.

Key Takeaways

  • Tabs use six horizontal lines representing your guitar strings, with numbers showing which fret to press on each string.
  • The verse riff in "Can't Stop" repeats the same pattern multiple times, making it easier to learn once you nail the first few bars.
  • Timing and rhythm are harder to read from tabs alone, so listening to the song while reading along helps you match the speed and feel.
  • The chorus uses a different fret pattern than the verse, so you'll need to switch between two main sections as you play through the song.

Reading the basic verse riff

The verse riff starts on the lower strings and uses mostly single notes played one at a time. When you look at a tab, you'll see numbers on the bottom lines (which represent the lower strings) clustered together. Start by finding the first number and pressing that fret, then move to the next number in sequence.

The opening riff repeats in a four-bar pattern, so once you can play the first four bars cleanly, you've learned the foundation of the whole verse. Practice slowly at first—aim for a tempo where you can hit each note clearly without rushing. A common mistake is playing the notes too fast before your fingers know where to go, which creates sloppy timing and makes it harder to lock in with a drummer or backing track.

Switching between verse and chorus patterns

When the chorus arrives, the tab shifts to a different set of fret numbers, usually higher up the neck. The chorus riff is typically shorter and punchier than the verse, with fewer notes per bar. Mark the spot in your tab where the chorus begins so you know when to switch patterns.

Practice the transition by playing the last bar of the verse, then when ready moving to the first bar of the chorus. Do this slowly at first, focusing on clean finger placement rather than speed. Once the switch feels natural, gradually increase your tempo. Many players stumble here because they're not watching ahead in the tab—glance one or two bars ahead while you play so your fingers are ready to move before you need them.

Using a metronome to lock in the timing

Tabs don't show rhythm clearly, so a metronome is essential for learning "Can't Stop." Set it to around 100 beats per minute to start, which is slower than the original recording. Play through the verse riff while the metronome clicks, focusing on landing each note exactly on or between the beats.

Once you can play the verse cleanly at 100 BPM, increase the tempo by 5 to 10 BPM and repeat. The original song runs at roughly 160 BPM, so you'll need to work your way up gradually. If you rush or drag behind the beat, slow down and try again—building accuracy at a slower speed is faster than trying to play fast and sloppy.

Common mistakes when learning from tabs

The biggest mistake is ignoring the rhythm and trying to play by ear without a reference. Tabs show you where to put your fingers but not how long to hold them or how fast to move between them. Always listen to the original song or a tutorial video while reading the tab so your brain connects the written numbers to the actual sound.

Another common error is pressing down too hard or tensing your hand. "Can't Stop" requires clean, quick finger movement, which is easier when your hand is relaxed. If your fingers hurt after a few minutes, you're likely pressing too hard—use just enough pressure to make the note ring clearly, then ease off.

A third mistake is skipping the chorus or bridge sections because they look harder. In reality, they're usually simpler than the verse. Don't avoid them—learn the whole song in sections, then string the sections together once each one is solid.

Finding reliable tabs online

Sites like Ultimate Guitar and Chordify host thousands of tabs for "Can't Stop," but quality varies widely. Look for tabs with high ratings and many comments, which usually means other players have tested them and confirmed they're accurate. Read the comments section—players often note which version of the song the tab matches and point out any errors.

If a tab doesn't match what you hear in the song, try a different version. Some tabs are simplified for beginners, while others include every note and technique from the recording. Pick one that matches your current skill level, then move to a more detailed version once you're comfortable with the basics.

Frequently Asked Questions

What does it mean when numbers are stacked vertically in a tab?

Stacked numbers mean those notes play at the same time. Press all the frets shown in that vertical stack simultaneously, then move to the next group of numbers. This creates chords or harmonies rather than a single-note melody.

How do I know how long to hold each note?

Tabs alone don't show note length clearly. Listen to the song while reading the tab and count how many beats each note lasts. A metronome helps you match your playing to the original timing. Some tabs use dashes or other symbols to show longer notes, so check the legend at the top of the tab.

Should I learn the bass version or the guitar version?

Most tabs show the guitar version, which is what you'll find easiest to learn. The bass version is similar but uses lower strings and fewer notes. Start with the standard guitar tabs, then explore the bass version once you're comfortable with the main riff.

Why does my version sound different from the recording?

The original song may use techniques like bending, muting, or effects that tabs don't fully capture. Watch a tutorial video of someone playing the song to see how they handle these details. You can also adjust your tone using your amp settings to get closer to the recorded sound.

Can I play this on an acoustic guitar?

Yes, the same tabs work on acoustic guitar. The riff will sound different because acoustic guitars have a warmer tone, but the fret numbers and finger positions are identical. You may need to adjust your amp or effects settings if you're used to playing electric.