What's Up: Easy Acoustic Chords For 4 Non Blondes Hit

by Jhon Lennon 54 views

Hey guys! Ever wanted to strum along to that timeless anthem, "What's Up" by 4 Non Blondes, on your acoustic guitar? Well, you're in the right place! This guide breaks down the easy acoustic guitar chords you need to play this classic. Whether you're a beginner or just looking for a simplified version, we've got you covered. Let's dive in and get you playing this iconic song in no time!

Getting Started with "What's Up"

So, you wanna learn how to play "What's Up" by 4 Non Blondes? Awesome choice! This song is a fantastic one for acoustic guitar, especially if you're just starting out. The chords are relatively simple, and the strumming pattern is quite forgiving. Before we get into the nitty-gritty, let's talk a bit about why this song is so great for beginner guitarists.

First off, the chords used in "What's Up" are mostly common and easy to learn. You'll likely encounter chords like G, D, Em, and C. These are staples in almost every beginner's guitar journey. Mastering these chords will not only allow you to play "What's Up" but will also open up a whole world of other songs. Think of it as building a solid foundation for your guitar playing adventure!

Secondly, the song's structure is repetitive, which makes it easier to memorize and play along. Once you've got the chord progression down, you'll find yourself naturally flowing through the song. Plus, the tempo is moderate, giving you plenty of time to switch between chords without feeling rushed. It's all about practice and patience, guys. Remember, every guitarist starts somewhere, and "What's Up" is a perfect starting point!

Finally, let's not forget the sheer fun factor. "What's Up" is an energetic and emotive song that's sure to get you singing along. Playing a song you love makes the learning process so much more enjoyable. So, grab your guitar, warm up those fingers, and get ready to rock out to this 90s classic!

Easy Acoustic Guitar Chords for "What's Up"

Alright, let's get down to the chords you'll need to play "What's Up" on your acoustic guitar. Don't worry, we're focusing on the easy versions to get you started. Here's a breakdown of each chord and how to play them:

G Major

The G Major chord is a fundamental chord in guitar playing. Here's how to play it:

  • Place your index finger on the 2nd fret of the A string.
  • Place your middle finger on the 3rd fret of the low E string.
  • Place your ring finger on the 3rd fret of the B string.
  • Strum all six strings.

This chord has a bright and uplifting sound, making it a perfect fit for the song's optimistic vibe. Practice switching to and from this chord, as it's a cornerstone of the song.

D Major

The D Major chord is another essential chord. Here's how to form it:

  • Place your index finger on the 2nd fret of the G string.
  • Place your middle finger on the 2nd fret of the high E string.
  • Place your ring finger on the 3rd fret of the B string.
  • Strum strings D, G, B, and high E (avoid strumming the low E and A strings for a cleaner sound).

The D Major chord adds a touch of brightness and resonance to the song. Get comfortable transitioning between G and D, as these two often go hand-in-hand.

Em (E minor)

The Em (E minor) chord brings a touch of melancholy to the progression. Here's how to play it:

  • Place your middle finger on the 2nd fret of the A string.
  • Place your ring finger on the 2nd fret of the D string.
  • Strum all six strings.

The E minor chord provides a contrast to the major chords, adding depth to the song's emotional range. It's a powerful chord that's used in countless songs, so mastering it is well worth your time.

C Major

The C Major chord is a versatile chord that adds a sense of resolution. Here's how to play it:

  • Place your index finger on the 1st fret of the B string.
  • Place your middle finger on the 2nd fret of the D string.
  • Place your ring finger on the 3rd fret of the A string.
  • Strum strings A, D, G, B, and high E (avoid strumming the low E string for a cleaner sound).

The C Major chord provides a grounding effect, bringing a sense of completion to the chord progression. Like the other chords, practice transitioning to and from C to improve your fluidity.

Chord Progression and Song Structure

Now that you know the easy acoustic guitar chords, let's put them together in the correct order. The main chord progression for "What's Up" is:

G - D - Em - C

This progression repeats throughout most of the song. Here's a breakdown of the song structure:

  • Verse: G - D - Em - C
  • Chorus: G - D - Em - C

Yep, it's that simple! The entire song essentially revolves around this four-chord progression. Of course, there might be slight variations in some parts, but this is the core of the song. Listen closely to the song to hear how the chords fit together, and don't be afraid to experiment with your own strumming patterns and embellishments.

Strumming Pattern

For the strumming pattern, you can keep it simple. A basic down-down-up-down-up pattern works well:

  • Down - Down - Up - Down - Up

You can also try different variations to add your own flair. Experiment with adding emphasis on certain beats or using a more syncopated rhythm. The key is to find a strumming pattern that feels comfortable and complements the song's energy. Don't be afraid to get creative and have fun with it! A more dynamic strumming pattern could be:

  • Down - Down - Up - Mute - Up - Down - Up

Where "Mute" involves lightly touching the strings with your strumming hand to create a percussive sound. This can add a nice rhythmic texture to your playing.

Tips for Beginners

Learning guitar can be challenging, but with practice and patience, anyone can do it. Here are some essential tips for beginners:

  • Start Slow: Don't try to rush through the song too quickly. Focus on getting the chord changes clean and smooth before speeding up.
  • Practice Regularly: Even just 15-20 minutes of practice each day can make a huge difference. Consistency is key!
  • Use a Metronome: A metronome can help you develop a sense of rhythm and timing. Start with a slow tempo and gradually increase it as you improve.
  • Record Yourself: Recording yourself playing can help you identify areas where you need to improve. It can also be a great way to track your progress.
  • Don't Give Up: Everyone struggles when they first start playing guitar. Don't get discouraged if you don't sound perfect right away. Keep practicing, and you'll eventually get there.
  • Finger Exercises: Strengthen those finger muscles! Simple exercises like scales or chord transitions can really help.
  • Guitar Setup: Make sure your guitar is properly set up. A poorly set up guitar can be difficult to play and can discourage you from practicing.

Conclusion

So there you have it, guys! You now have everything you need to play "What's Up" by 4 Non Blondes on your acoustic guitar. Remember to take it slow, practice regularly, and most importantly, have fun! This song is a classic for a reason, and learning to play it is a rewarding experience. With a little bit of effort, you'll be strumming along to this iconic tune in no time. Keep practicing, and rock on! And remember, the most important thing is to enjoy the journey of learning to play the guitar. Every guitarist starts somewhere, and with dedication and passion, you'll be amazed at what you can achieve. So, grab your guitar, keep strumming, and never stop learning!