New Sensation INXS: Guitar Chords And How To Play It

by Jhon Lennon 53 views

Hey guys! Ever wanted to learn how to play that iconic INXS hit, "New Sensation," on your guitar? Well, you've come to the right place! This guide will break down the chords, strumming patterns, and everything else you need to nail this classic tune. Whether you're a beginner or an experienced player, there's something here for everyone. So, grab your guitar, tune up, and let's get started!

Introduction to "New Sensation"

"New Sensation" is a song by the Australian rock band INXS, released in 1987 as the second single from their sixth studio album, Kick. The song was a commercial success, reaching the top 10 in the United States, Australia, and other countries. Known for its energetic rhythm, catchy melody, and Michael Hutchence's charismatic vocals, "New Sensation" remains a favorite among fans and a staple on classic rock radio stations. The song's appeal lies in its upbeat tempo and memorable guitar riffs, making it a popular choice for guitarists of all levels. In this guide, we'll explore the essential guitar chords and techniques you need to play "New Sensation" accurately and confidently. From understanding the basic chord progressions to mastering the strumming patterns, we'll cover everything you need to bring this INXS classic to life on your guitar. So, whether you're a seasoned guitarist looking to add a new song to your repertoire or a beginner eager to learn a popular rock anthem, this guide will provide you with the tools and knowledge to play "New Sensation" like a pro. We'll also delve into some tips and tricks to help you capture the song's unique energy and vibe, ensuring that your rendition of "New Sensation" is both authentic and engaging. So, get ready to dive in and discover the secrets behind this timeless hit!

Essential Chords for "New Sensation"

To play "New Sensation" accurately, you'll need to know a few key chords. These chords form the backbone of the song and are relatively simple to learn, making it accessible for beginner guitarists. The primary chords used in "New Sensation" are: E, B, A, and C#m (C sharp minor). Let's take a closer look at each of these chords and how to play them:

  • E (E Major): To play E major, place your index finger on the 3rd string (G string) at the 1st fret. Place your middle finger on the 5th string (A string) at the 2nd fret. Place your ring finger on the 4th string (D string) at the 2nd fret. Strum all six strings.
  • B (B Major): B major can be a bit tricky for beginners. The most common way to play it is using a barre chord. Place your index finger across all six strings at the 2nd fret (the barre). Place your middle finger on the 4th string (D string) at the 4th fret. Place your ring finger on the 3rd string (G string) at the 4th fret. Place your pinky finger on the 2nd string (B string) at the 4th fret. Strum all six strings. If barre chords are challenging for you, you can try a simplified version, but the full barre chord will sound closer to the original.
  • A (A Major): A major is a fundamental chord. Place your index finger on the 2nd string (B string) at the 2nd fret. Place your middle finger on the 4th string (D string) at the 2nd fret. Place your ring finger on the 3rd string (G string) at the 2nd fret. Strum the 5th string (A string) open, and then strum the 4th, 3rd, 2nd, and 1st strings.
  • C#m (C Sharp Minor): C#m is another barre chord. Place your index finger across all six strings at the 4th fret (the barre). Place your middle finger on the 2nd string (B string) at the 5th fret. Place your ring finger on the 4th string (D string) at the 6th fret. Place your pinky finger on the 3rd string (G string) at the 6th fret. Strum all six strings. Like the B major chord, mastering the C#m barre chord will greatly enhance your ability to play many other songs as well.

Practicing these chords individually will help you build the finger strength and dexterity needed to play "New Sensation" smoothly. Once you're comfortable with each chord, try transitioning between them slowly to get a feel for the chord progression. Remember, consistency is key, so keep practicing regularly to improve your skills.

Strumming Pattern

The strumming pattern for "New Sensation" is relatively straightforward but adds a lot of energy to the song. The basic strumming pattern is Down, Down, Up, Down, Up. This pattern can be varied slightly to add your own personal touch, but sticking to this foundation will keep the song recognizable. Here's a breakdown:

  1. Down: Strum all the strings from the thickest (lowest) to the thinnest (highest).
  2. Down: Strum all the strings again in the same direction.
  3. Up: Strum all the strings from the thinnest (highest) to the thickest (lowest).
  4. Down: Strum down again.
  5. Up: Strum up again.

To get the feel of the song, try strumming along with the recording. Pay attention to the rhythm and the accents in the strumming. The song has a driving beat, so make sure your strumming is consistent and energetic. Experiment with adding slight variations to the pattern, such as emphasizing certain strums or adding a slight pause between strums. This will help you develop your own unique style while still staying true to the original song. Also, focus on keeping your wrist loose and relaxed to avoid fatigue and ensure a smooth, consistent strumming motion. Practicing with a metronome can help you maintain a steady tempo and improve your timing. Start slow and gradually increase the speed as you become more comfortable with the pattern. Remember, the key to mastering the strumming pattern is repetition and attention to detail. With enough practice, you'll be able to strum "New Sensation" effortlessly and confidently.

Song Structure and Chord Progression

Understanding the structure of "New Sensation" will help you play along with the song more effectively. The song generally follows a verse-chorus structure with a bridge. Here’s a simplified breakdown of the chord progression:

  • Verse: E - B - A - B
  • Chorus: C#m - B - A - E
  • Bridge: A - B - E - C#m

During the verses, the progression moves between E, B, and A, creating a catchy and upbeat feel. The chorus introduces the C#m chord, adding a touch of melancholy before resolving back to the major chords. The bridge provides a change of pace, using a slightly different progression to build tension before returning to the chorus. To play the song accurately, it's important to listen carefully to the changes between these sections. Pay attention to the timing of the chord changes and the dynamics of the music. You can also experiment with adding your own embellishments and variations to the chord progressions to create a more personalized sound. However, it's important to maintain the basic structure of the song to keep it recognizable. Also, try to anticipate the chord changes and practice transitioning smoothly between the different sections of the song. This will help you maintain a consistent rhythm and avoid any awkward pauses or hesitations. With enough practice, you'll be able to navigate the song's structure with ease and play "New Sensation" like a pro.

Tips for Playing "New Sensation"

Here are some additional tips to help you play "New Sensation" like a pro:

  • Practice Transitions: Smooth transitions between chords are crucial. Practice moving between the E, B, A, and C#m chords until you can do it without hesitation.
  • Use a Metronome: A metronome will help you keep a steady tempo and improve your timing.
  • Listen to the Song: Listen to "New Sensation" repeatedly to internalize the rhythm and feel of the song.
  • Record Yourself: Recording yourself playing can help you identify areas where you need to improve.
  • Play with Others: Playing with other musicians is a great way to improve your timing and learn new techniques.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

Even experienced guitarists can make mistakes when learning a new song. Here are some common mistakes to avoid when playing "New Sensation":

  • Rushing the Tempo: Make sure to maintain a steady tempo throughout the song. Avoid rushing the chord changes or the strumming pattern.
  • Incorrect Chord Fingerings: Double-check your chord fingerings to ensure that you are playing the chords correctly.
  • Inconsistent Strumming: Maintain a consistent strumming pattern throughout the song. Avoid varying the strumming pattern too much, as this can throw off the rhythm.
  • Ignoring Dynamics: Pay attention to the dynamics of the song. Vary your strumming intensity to create a more dynamic performance.
  • Not Listening to the Original: Make sure to listen to the original recording of "New Sensation" to get a feel for the song's nuances and subtleties.

Conclusion

Learning to play "New Sensation" by INXS is a rewarding experience for any guitarist. With its catchy melody, energetic rhythm, and relatively simple chord progression, it's a great song for beginners and experienced players alike. By mastering the essential chords, strumming pattern, and song structure, you'll be able to play "New Sensation" with confidence and accuracy. So, grab your guitar, tune up, and start practicing today! With enough dedication and practice, you'll be rocking out to this INXS classic in no time. And remember, the key to success is to have fun and enjoy the process of learning and playing music. So, keep practicing, keep experimenting, and keep exploring the world of guitar playing. You'll be amazed at what you can achieve with a little bit of effort and perseverance. Now go out there and make some music!