Hey guys! Ever wanted to learn how to play "Everything You Want" on guitar? You've come to the right place! This guide breaks down the chords and provides some tips to help you master this classic tune. Whether you're a beginner or just looking to brush up, we've got you covered. Let’s dive in and get those fingers moving!

Introduction to "Everything You Want"

"Everything You Want" is a song by the American rock band Vertical Horizon. Released in 1999, it quickly became a massive hit, resonating with listeners through its heartfelt lyrics and catchy melody. The song’s simple yet emotive structure makes it a favorite among guitar players of all levels. Learning to play this song not only adds a great piece to your repertoire but also helps you improve your chord transitions and overall guitar skills.

Understanding the context of the song can also enhance your playing experience. "Everything You Want" captures the feelings of longing and introspection, making it a perfect choice for quiet moments or when you just want to strum something meaningful. Plus, knowing the song's popularity, you're likely to impress your friends and family when you play it!

The song's appeal lies in its accessibility. The chords are relatively straightforward, making it a good starting point for beginners. However, mastering the nuances and dynamics of the song will challenge even more experienced players. This guide will provide you with a comprehensive overview, from the basic chords to tips on how to capture the song's emotional depth. So grab your guitar, and let’s get started on this musical journey!

Basic Chords You'll Need

To play "Everything You Want," you'll primarily need these chords:

• G Major (G): A fundamental chord in many songs, G Major is relatively easy to learn. Place your middle finger on the 6th string, 3rd fret; your index finger on the 5th string, 2nd fret; and your ring finger on the 1st string, 3rd fret. Strum all six strings.
• D Major (D): Another essential chord, D Major, involves placing your index finger on the 3rd string, 2nd fret; your middle finger on the 1st string, 2nd fret; and your ring finger on the 2nd string, 3rd fret. Strum the bottom four strings.
• Em (E minor): This chord adds a touch of melancholy to the song. Place your middle finger on the 5th string, 2nd fret, and your ring finger on the 4th string, 2nd fret. Strum all six strings.
• C Major (C): A common chord found in countless songs, C Major requires you to place your index finger on the 2nd string, 1st fret; your middle finger on the 4th string, 2nd fret; and your ring finger on the 5th string, 3rd fret. Strum all strings except the 6th.

Practicing these chords individually is crucial. Focus on getting clean, clear sounds from each chord. Use a metronome to maintain a steady rhythm, and gradually increase the tempo as you become more comfortable. Once you can play these chords smoothly, you'll be well-prepared to tackle the song.

Additionally, pay attention to your finger placement and posture. Ensure your fingers are arched and pressing down firmly behind the frets. This will help you avoid buzzing and produce a better sound. Regular practice, even for just 15-20 minutes a day, can make a significant difference in your progress. So keep at it, and you'll be strumming "Everything You Want" in no time!

Chord Progression

The main chord progression for "Everything You Want" is:

G - D - Em - C

This progression repeats throughout most of the song, making it relatively easy to memorize. The verse and chorus largely follow this sequence, though there may be slight variations depending on the specific section of the song. Understanding this basic structure is key to playing the song smoothly and accurately.

To get a feel for the progression, try playing it slowly at first. Focus on clean transitions between each chord. As you become more comfortable, gradually increase the tempo. Pay attention to the dynamics of the song, varying your strumming intensity to match the emotional tone of each section. This will help you capture the essence of "Everything You Want."

Experiment with different strumming patterns to find what works best for you. A simple down-down-up-down-up pattern is a good starting point. You can also add variations, such as skipping strings or using different rhythms, to create your own unique interpretation of the song. Remember, the goal is to have fun and express yourself through the music.

Understanding the structure of the song will help you play along with the recording and anticipate the chord changes. This will also make it easier to learn the song by ear and improvise your own variations. So take the time to familiarize yourself with the chord progression, and you'll be well on your way to mastering "Everything You Want."

Strumming Patterns

The beauty of "Everything You Want" lies in its simplicity, which extends to its strumming patterns. A basic strumming pattern that works well is:

Down, Down, Up, Down, Up

However, feel free to experiment with different rhythms and variations to suit your style. For a more dynamic feel, try adding accents on certain beats or incorporating palm muting techniques. The key is to find a pattern that complements the song's melody and rhythm.

When practicing, focus on maintaining a consistent tempo and keeping your strumming hand relaxed. This will help you avoid fatigue and produce a smoother, more natural sound. Use a metronome to ensure your timing is accurate, and gradually increase the tempo as you become more comfortable.

Different sections of the song may call for different strumming patterns. For example, you might use a simpler pattern during the verses and a more energetic pattern during the chorus. Pay attention to the dynamics of the song and adjust your strumming accordingly. This will add depth and interest to your performance.

Don't be afraid to experiment and find your own unique style. The most important thing is to have fun and express yourself through the music. With practice and experimentation, you'll develop a strumming pattern that perfectly captures the essence of "Everything You Want."

Tips for Beginners

• Start Slow: Don't rush! Focus on clean chord transitions before speeding up.
• Practice Regularly: Even 15-20 minutes a day can make a huge difference.
• Use a Metronome: This will help you maintain a steady rhythm and improve your timing.
• Listen to the Song: Familiarize yourself with the song's melody and dynamics.
• Don't Give Up: Learning guitar takes time and patience. Keep practicing, and you'll eventually get there!

Starting slow is crucial for beginners. Trying to play too fast too soon can lead to frustration and bad habits. Instead, focus on mastering the basic chords and transitions at a slow tempo. Once you can play them cleanly and accurately, you can gradually increase the speed. Remember, patience is key!

Regular practice is also essential. Even if you only have a few minutes each day, consistent practice will help you build muscle memory and improve your skills. Try to set aside a specific time each day for practice, and stick to it as much as possible. This will help you develop a routine and make progress more quickly.

Using a metronome is a great way to improve your timing and rhythm. A metronome provides a steady beat that you can use to keep your playing in time. Start by setting the metronome to a slow tempo, and gradually increase the speed as you become more comfortable. This will help you develop a sense of rhythm and improve your overall playing.

Listening to the song is also important. By familiarizing yourself with the song's melody and dynamics, you'll be better able to capture its essence when you play it. Listen to the song actively, paying attention to the chord changes, strumming patterns, and overall feel. This will help you develop a deeper understanding of the song and improve your performance.

Finally, don't give up! Learning guitar takes time and patience. There will be times when you feel frustrated or discouraged, but it's important to keep practicing and stay positive. Remember, every guitarist started where you are now. With dedication and perseverance, you'll eventually reach your goals and be able to play your favorite songs.

Advanced Techniques

For those looking to add some flair, try these advanced techniques:

• Palm Muting: This involves resting the side of your palm lightly on the strings near the bridge to create a dampened, percussive sound.
• Hammer-Ons and Pull-Offs: These techniques add ornamentation to your playing by creating notes without picking.
• Alternate Picking: This involves using both upstrokes and downstrokes when picking notes, which can improve your speed and accuracy.

Palm muting is a great way to add some rhythmic punch to your playing. By resting the side of your palm lightly on the strings near the bridge, you can dampen the sound and create a percussive effect. This can be particularly effective during the chorus of "Everything You Want," where you want to create a more energetic feel.

Hammer-ons and pull-offs are techniques that add ornamentation to your playing without picking. A hammer-on involves striking a string with a finger to create a note, while a pull-off involves plucking a string with a finger that is already fretting it. These techniques can add a subtle, expressive touch to your playing.

Alternate picking involves using both upstrokes and downstrokes when picking notes. This can improve your speed and accuracy, as it allows you to play notes more efficiently. Alternate picking is particularly useful for playing fast, intricate passages. It requires practice and coordination, but it can significantly improve your overall playing ability.

Experimenting with these advanced techniques can add depth and complexity to your playing. They can also help you develop your own unique style and express yourself more fully through the music. So don't be afraid to try new things and push your boundaries. With practice and dedication, you'll be able to incorporate these techniques into your playing and take your guitar skills to the next level.

Conclusion

Learning "Everything You Want" on guitar is a rewarding experience. Not only will you add a great song to your repertoire, but you'll also improve your guitar skills along the way. Remember to start slow, practice regularly, and don't be afraid to experiment. With patience and dedication, you'll be strumming this classic tune in no time. Happy playing!

So there you have it, guys! A complete guide to playing "Everything You Want" on guitar. Keep practicing, stay patient, and most importantly, have fun with it. Music is all about expression, so make the song your own and enjoy the journey. Rock on!