Iwan Fals - Berita Kepada Kawan: Easy Guitar Chords

Let's dive into playing "Berita Kepada Kawan" by the legendary Iwan Fals! This song is a classic, and learning it on guitar is super rewarding. In this guide, we'll break down the chords, strumming patterns, and some tips to help you nail it. Whether you're a beginner or an experienced guitarist, there's something here for everyone.

Intro to "Berita Kepada Kawan"

"Berita Kepada Kawan" (News to Friends) is one of Iwan Fals' most iconic songs. Released in the early 1980s, it speaks of social issues, the environment, and the struggles of everyday people. The song's simple yet powerful lyrics, combined with Iwan Fals' distinctive voice, have made it an anthem for many. Learning to play this song isn't just about mastering the chords; it's about connecting with a piece of Indonesian musical history. So, grab your guitar, and let’s get started!

Chord Progression

Okay, guys, let's break down the chords you'll need to play "Berita Kepada Kawan." The song primarily uses a few simple chords, making it relatively easy for beginners. Here's a list of the essential chords and how to play them:

• G Major (G): This is a fundamental chord. 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.
• C Major (C): Another essential chord. 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 from the 5th string.
• D Major (D): Place 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 from the 4th string.
• Em (E minor): Place your middle finger on the 5th string, 2nd fret, and your ring finger on the 4th string, 2nd fret. Strum all six strings.

These four chords (G, C, D, Em) form the backbone of the song. Once you're comfortable switching between them, you're well on your way to playing "Berita Kepada Kawan."

Chord Chart

To make things even clearer, here's a simple chord chart:

Keep practicing these chords until they become second nature. The more comfortable you are with the chords, the easier it will be to focus on the rhythm and feel of the song.

Strumming Pattern

Now that we've covered the chords, let's talk about the strumming pattern. For "Berita Kepada Kawan," a simple and consistent strumming pattern works best. Here’s a suggestion:

Down, Down, Up, Down, Up

This pattern is easy to remember and fits well with the song's tempo. Feel free to experiment with variations, but this is a great starting point. Focus on keeping a steady rhythm, and don't rush. Listen to the original song to get a feel for the timing.

Tips for Strumming

• Use a metronome: A metronome can help you maintain a consistent tempo. Start slow and gradually increase the speed as you become more comfortable.
• Relax your wrist: A relaxed wrist is key to smooth strumming. Avoid tensing up, and let your wrist do the work.
• Listen to the song: Pay attention to how Iwan Fals strums the guitar in the original recording. Try to emulate his style.

Remember, practice makes perfect. Don't get discouraged if you don't get it right away. Keep practicing, and you'll improve over time.

Song Structure

"Berita Kepada Kawan" follows a pretty straightforward structure, which makes it easier to learn. Here's a typical breakdown:

1. Intro: Usually consists of instrumental riffs or a simple chord progression to set the mood.
2. Verse: The main part of the song where the story unfolds. The chords are usually simple and repetitive.
3. Chorus: The most memorable part of the song, often with a catchy melody and powerful lyrics. The chords might change slightly to build tension and release.
4. Bridge (Optional): A section that provides a contrast to the verses and chorus. It might have different chords or a different tempo.
5. Outro: The ending of the song, often fading out with the main chords or a simple instrumental riff.

Understanding the structure of the song will help you anticipate chord changes and play along more smoothly. Listen to the song carefully and try to identify these different sections.

Example Verse and Chorus

To give you a clearer idea, here's an example of how the chords might be arranged in a verse and chorus:

Verse:

G C Perjalanan ini terasa sangat menyedihkan

D G Sayang engkau tak duduk disampingku kawan

Chorus:

C G Berita kepada kawan D G Berita kepada kawan

This is just an example, and the actual chord progression might vary slightly depending on the arrangement. Always refer to the original song or a reliable chord chart for the most accurate information.

Putting It All Together

Alright, now let's put everything together. Start by practicing the chords individually, then work on the strumming pattern. Once you're comfortable with both, try playing along with the song. Don't worry if you make mistakes; just keep practicing, and you'll gradually improve.

Tips for Playing Along

• Start Slow: Begin at a slower tempo and gradually increase the speed as you become more comfortable.
• Focus on Timing: Pay attention to the timing and try to stay in sync with the song.
• Don't Give Up: Learning a new song takes time and effort. Don't get discouraged if you don't get it right away. Keep practicing, and you'll eventually master it.

Common Mistakes and How to Avoid Them

Even the best guitarists make mistakes, especially when learning a new song. Here are some common mistakes to watch out for and how to avoid them:

• Rushing the Chords: Make sure you're changing chords smoothly and not rushing. Practice the transitions between chords until they become second nature.
• Tensing Up: Relax your body, especially your hands and wrists. Tension can lead to fatigue and make it harder to play smoothly.
• Ignoring the Rhythm: Pay attention to the rhythm and make sure you're strumming in time with the song. Use a metronome to help you stay on track.

By being aware of these common mistakes and taking steps to avoid them, you'll be well on your way to playing "Berita Kepada Kawan" like a pro.

Advanced Techniques

Once you've mastered the basic chords and strumming pattern, you can start exploring some advanced techniques to add your own personal touch to the song. Here are a few ideas:

• Fingerpicking: Instead of strumming, try fingerpicking the chords. This can add a more delicate and intricate feel to the song.
• Adding Embellishments: Incorporate hammer-ons, pull-offs, and slides to add some flair to your playing.
• Experimenting with Different Strumming Patterns: Try different strumming patterns to see how they affect the feel of the song.

Remember, the goal is to make the song your own while still honoring the original version. Don't be afraid to experiment and have fun!

Learning Resources

• Online Tutorials: YouTube and other online platforms have tons of tutorials for "Berita Kepada Kawan."
• Chord Websites: Websites like Ultimate-Guitar and Chordify offer chord charts and tabs for the song.
• Guitar Teachers: Consider taking lessons from a guitar teacher who can provide personalized instruction and feedback.

Conclusion

Learning to play "Berita Kepada Kawan" by Iwan Fals is a rewarding experience for any guitarist. The song's simple chords and straightforward structure make it accessible to beginners, while its powerful lyrics and cultural significance make it a classic for more experienced players.

By following the tips and techniques outlined in this guide, you'll be well on your way to mastering this iconic Indonesian song. So grab your guitar, start practicing, and most importantly, have fun! Keep strumming, keep singing, and keep the spirit of Iwan Fals alive!