Are You Gonna Be My Girl: Lead Sheet / Fake Book

This lead sheet captures one of the most recognizable rock riffs of the 2000s in a format that lets keyboardists, pianists, and singers own the song themselves. The straightforward harmonic structure doesn't sacrifice the track's infectious energy, making it accessible for learners while remaining genuinely fun to perform.

Propulsive and confident. The song launches with immediate momentum and sustains that forward drive throughout, built on a riff that feels both catchy and slightly dangerous. There's a swagger here that's infectious without being overbearing.

Keyboardists and pianists exploring contemporary rock repertoire, vocalists looking for a high-energy standard with universal recognition, and ensembles seeking accessible material that still delivers real musical payoff. Students benefit from learning how deceptively simple songwriting can generate lasting impact.

• Lock into the rhythmic pocket early. This song lives in its groove, so establish the tempo and subdivisions with confidence before the melody enters.
• Let the bass line drive the arrangement if you're playing with a full band. The keyboard doesn't need to fill every space; serve the rhythm section.
• Commit to the attitude. The song's power comes from its swagger, not complexity. Play it with conviction rather than overthinking the phrasing.

Build a contemporary rock showcase or spring concert segment around tracks that define the 2000s sound. This lead sheet pairs well with other rock staples from the same era, giving students exposure to repertoire they hear on the radio while developing musicianship on material that genuinely excites them.

• Maintaining rhythmic precision in repetitive grooves
• Balancing melody awareness with groove sensibility
• Interpreting lead sheets across different instrumentation
• Building performance confidence through infectious material