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R.E.M. - The One I Love - Guitar Lesson

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R.E.M. - The One I Love - Guitar Lesson

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Key E minor
R.E.M. - The One I Love guitar lesson video
Guitar 365
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Classic Rock

Gain6
Bass6
Mid7
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Master7
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Document (R.E.M. No. 5) album cover
Document (R.E.M. No. 5)
1987 3:18
Listen on Spotify
R.E.M. Alternative Rock 1987 E minor
Capo Advisor 0 E minor · Original key

The One I Love

"The One I Love" is a single by American alternative rock band R.E.M., featured on their 1987 studio album Document. Despite its romantic-sounding title, the song carries a darker lyrical edge, set against a driving, stripped-back rock arrangement. It became the band's first major hit, reaching No. 9 on the US Billboard Hot 100, making it a landmark track in alternative rock history and a rewarding study in minimalist, riff-driven electric guitar playing.

  • The song's main guitar riff is deceptively simple, making it accessible for intermediate players while still delivering strong impact.
  • Released by I.R.S. Records in 1987, it was R.E.M.'s breakthrough into mainstream US chart success, peaking at No. 9.
  • The track appeared on Document, R.E.M.'s fifth studio album, and was later re-released in 1991, charting at No. 16 in the UK.
Fender Telecaster
Guitar

Fender Telecaster

Peter Buck uses the Telecaster for grittier, more articulate tones on R.E.M. tracks, trading the Rickenbacker's chime for a sharper midrange attack. Its bright single-coils cut through the mix with definition when he needs more presence than jangle.

Fender Twin Reverb
Amp

Fender Twin Reverb

Buck deploys the Twin Reverb for pristine, spacious cleans that complement his arpeggiated parts with natural reverb bloom. The amp's headroom lets him maintain clarity even when stacking multiple layers of jangly guitars without breakup.

Vox AC30
Amp

Vox AC30

The AC30 is Peter Buck's primary amp, delivering the signature chimey sparkle and harmonic richness that defines R.E.M.'s jangle sound. Its natural compression and Top Boost channel paired with his Rickenbacker 360 creates the band's iconic clean, shimmering tone.

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