Hey guitar enthusiasts! Are you ready to dive into one of Van Halen's most iconic hits? In this article, we're breaking down the guitar chords for "Right Now." Whether you're a beginner or an experienced player, this guide will help you master this classic track. We'll cover everything from the basic chords to some of the nuances that make the song so recognizable. So, grab your guitar, tune up, and let’s get started!

Understanding the Chords

Let's get into Van Halen's "Right Now" and its chord structure. This song primarily revolves around a few key chords, making it relatively accessible for guitarists of various skill levels. The main chords you'll need to know are C, G, Am, and F. These chords form the backbone of the song and are used throughout the verses and chorus.

• C Major: A foundational chord, C Major is often the starting point for many songs. To play it, place your third finger on the 3rd fret of the A string, your second finger on the 2nd fret of the D string, and your first finger on the 1st fret of the B string. Strumming from the A string down will give you that bright, familiar C Major sound. It's a crucial chord to have under your fingers, and you'll find it in countless songs.
• G Major: G Major is another essential chord in the guitarist's toolkit. To play it, place your middle finger on the 2nd fret of the A string, your index finger on the 2nd fret of the low E string, and your ring finger on the 3rd fret of the high E string. Strum all six strings to get the full, resonant sound of G Major. It's a versatile chord that can add a sense of resolution and warmth to your playing.
• A Minor: A Minor brings a touch of melancholy to the progression. To play it, place your middle finger on the 2nd fret of the D string, your index finger on the 1st fret of the B string, and leave the G string open. Strum from the A string down. A Minor is commonly used to create contrast and emotional depth in songs.
• F Major: F Major can be a bit tricky for beginners, but with practice, it becomes manageable. There are a couple of ways to play it. The full barre chord involves using your index finger to barre across all six strings at the 1st fret, then adding your middle finger on the 2nd fret of the G string, your ring finger on the 3rd fret of the D string, and your pinky on the 3rd fret of the A string. Alternatively, you can play a simplified version by omitting the barre on the low E string, which can make it easier to handle. F Major adds a rich, full sound to the progression.

Chord Progression

The basic chord progression for "Right Now" is:

C - G - Am - F

This progression repeats throughout much of the song, providing a catchy and memorable structure. Understanding how these chords fit together is key to playing the song accurately. The transition between these chords should be smooth and fluid, allowing you to maintain the song's rhythm and energy.

Verse Breakdown

The verse of "Right Now" primarily uses the C - G - Am - F progression. However, it's not just about playing the chords; it's about capturing the feel. Eddie Van Halen's genius lies in his ability to infuse simple chord progressions with unique rhythmic and dynamic elements. Pay close attention to the strumming pattern. It's not just a straight strumming; there's a slight syncopation that gives the song its distinctive groove.

Strumming Pattern

The suggested strumming pattern for the verse is:

Down, Down, Up, Down, Up

Try to keep your strumming hand relaxed and consistent. Focus on the rhythm and try to internalize the feel of the song. As you become more comfortable, you can start adding your own variations to the strumming pattern. Experiment with different accents and dynamics to make the song your own.

Dynamics

Dynamics play a crucial role in the verse. Try to vary your strumming intensity to create a sense of ebb and flow. For example, you might strum a bit softer during the quieter parts of the verse and then increase the intensity during the more energetic sections. This dynamic variation will add depth and interest to your playing.

Chorus Breakdown

The chorus of "Right Now" kicks things up a notch with a more powerful and driving feel. The chord progression remains the same (C - G - Am - F), but the energy and intensity increase significantly. This is where you really want to dig in and let loose.

Strumming Pattern

For the chorus, a more aggressive strumming pattern is recommended to match the song's increased energy:

Down, Down, Up, Down, Down, Up

This pattern emphasizes the downstrokes, giving the chorus a heavier and more impactful sound. Focus on keeping your strumming tight and precise. Each stroke should be deliberate and powerful.

Power Chords

Consider using power chords for the chorus to add even more punch. Power chords are simplified versions of regular chords that focus on the root and fifth intervals. They are commonly used in rock and metal to create a heavier, more aggressive sound. To play a power chord, simply play the root note, the fifth, and the octave.

Transitions

The transitions between the verse and chorus should be seamless. Practice moving smoothly between the different strumming patterns and dynamics. Pay attention to the timing and make sure you're locking in with the beat. A smooth transition will help maintain the song's momentum and keep the energy flowing.

Guitar Solo

While this guide focuses on the rhythm guitar part, it's impossible to ignore the legendary guitar solo in "Right Now." While replicating Eddie Van Halen's virtuosity is a challenge, understanding the solo can enhance your overall appreciation of the song.

Key Elements

The solo incorporates several key elements that define Eddie Van Halen's style:

• Tapping: Eddie Van Halen was a pioneer of two-handed tapping, and this technique is prominently featured in the solo. Tapping involves using your picking hand to tap notes on the fretboard, creating fast and fluid runs.
• Harmonics: Harmonics are another signature element of Eddie Van Halen's playing. He often used pinch harmonics, which involve lightly touching the string with your thumb while picking to create a high-pitched squeal.
• Tremolo: The tremolo bar (or whammy bar) is used extensively to create vibrato and dive bombs. Eddie Van Halen was known for his creative use of the tremolo bar, often using it to add dramatic flair to his solos.

Approaching the Solo

If you're an advanced player, you might want to try learning the solo note-for-note. However, if you're a beginner or intermediate player, you can still get a lot out of analyzing the solo. Pay attention to the scales and arpeggios that Eddie Van Halen uses, and try incorporating some of those ideas into your own playing.

Tips for Beginners

If you're new to guitar, learning "Right Now" can be a rewarding challenge. Here are a few tips to help you along the way:

• Start Slow: Don't try to learn the song at full speed right away. Start by practicing the chords and strumming patterns slowly and gradually increase the tempo as you become more comfortable.
• Practice Regularly: Consistent practice is key to improving your guitar skills. Try to set aside some time each day to practice, even if it's just for 15-20 minutes.
• Use a Metronome: A metronome can help you develop your timing and rhythm. Start by practicing the chords and strumming patterns with a metronome set to a slow tempo.
• Break It Down: If you're struggling with a particular section of the song, try breaking it down into smaller chunks. Practice each chunk separately until you can play it smoothly, and then gradually piece everything back together.
• Be Patient: Learning guitar takes time and effort. Don't get discouraged if you don't see results immediately. Just keep practicing and you'll eventually get there.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

Even experienced guitarists can make mistakes when learning a new song. Here are some common pitfalls to watch out for when playing "Right Now":

• Rushing the Tempo: It's easy to get caught up in the excitement of the song and start rushing the tempo. Make sure you're playing at a consistent tempo and not speeding up or slowing down.
• Inconsistent Strumming: Inconsistent strumming can make the song sound sloppy and disjointed. Focus on maintaining a steady and consistent strumming pattern.
• Incorrect Finger Placement: Incorrect finger placement can lead to buzzing or muted notes. Make sure your fingers are properly positioned on the fretboard and that you're applying enough pressure to create a clear sound.
• Ignoring Dynamics: Dynamics are an important part of the song, and ignoring them can make your playing sound flat and lifeless. Pay attention to the dynamic variations in the song and try to replicate them in your playing.

Final Thoughts

"Right Now" is more than just a song; it's a cultural anthem that resonates with generations. By mastering the guitar chords and techniques, you're not just learning to play a song, you're connecting with the heart and soul of Van Halen's musical legacy. So keep practicing, keep exploring, and most importantly, keep enjoying the journey of learning to play guitar. Rock on!