When I Was Young: Rod Stewart Chords & How To Play

by Jhon Lennon 51 views

Hey guys! Today, we're diving into the timeless classic, "When I Was Young" by the legendary Rod Stewart. This song is a fantastic piece to add to your repertoire, whether you're a seasoned guitarist or just starting out. We'll break down the chords, strumming patterns, and give you some tips to nail that iconic sound. So, grab your guitar, tune up, and let's get started!

Decoding the Chords

First things first, let's talk about the chords you'll need to master to play "When I Was Young." The song primarily revolves around a few essential chords, making it relatively accessible for beginner to intermediate players. The main chords you'll encounter are G Major, C Major, D Major, and Em (E minor). Understanding these chords is crucial, as they form the backbone of the entire song. If you're not already familiar with these chords, now's the perfect time to get acquainted!

  • G Major: A foundational chord in many songs, G Major is bright and uplifting. To play it, place your middle finger on the 6th string (E string) at the 3rd fret, your index finger on the 5th string (A string) at the 2nd fret, and your ring finger on the 1st string (E string) at the 3rd fret. Strum all six strings. Practice transitioning to and from this chord smoothly.
  • C Major: Another essential chord, C Major has a warm and comforting sound. Place your index finger on the 2nd string (B string) at the 1st fret, your middle finger on the 4th string (D string) at the 2nd fret, and your ring finger on the 5th string (A string) at the 3rd fret. Strum all strings but the low E string. Work on getting a clean sound without muting any strings.
  • D Major: D Major is a bright and resonant chord that adds energy to the song. Place your index finger on the 3rd string (G string) at the 2nd fret, your middle finger on the 1st string (E string) at the 2nd fret, and your ring finger on the 2nd string (B string) at the 3rd fret. Strum the top four strings, avoiding the low E and A strings. Focus on making the chord ring out clearly.
  • Em (E minor): Em brings a touch of melancholy and depth. Place your middle finger on the 5th string (A string) at the 2nd fret and your ring finger on the 4th string (D string) at the 2nd fret. Strum all six strings. Practice switching to and from Em to add emotional contrast to your playing.

With these four chords in your arsenal, you're well-equipped to tackle "When I Was Young." Practice transitioning between these chords until the changes become second nature. Smooth transitions are key to making the song sound fluid and professional.

Mastering the Strumming Pattern

Alright, now that we've got the chords down, let's talk strumming! The strumming pattern for "When I Was Young" isn't overly complicated, but getting it right is crucial for capturing the song's feel. A basic strumming pattern that works well is Down, Down, Up, Down, Up. However, Rod Stewart's version has a subtle rhythmic nuance that you can achieve by emphasizing certain strums and incorporating slight variations. Pay close attention to the original recording to pick up these nuances. Start slow and gradually increase your speed as you become more comfortable.

  • Basic Pattern: As mentioned, the basic pattern is Down, Down, Up, Down, Up. This simple pattern provides a solid foundation. Focus on maintaining a steady rhythm and clear articulation.
  • Adding Emphasis: To add more depth, try emphasizing the first down strum in each measure. This can be achieved by strumming slightly harder or using a more pronounced wrist movement. Experiment with different levels of emphasis to find what sounds best to you.
  • Subtle Variations: Listen closely to the song and try to identify any subtle variations in the strumming. You might notice that Rod Stewart sometimes adds an extra down strum or omits an up strum. Incorporating these variations can make your playing sound more authentic.
  • Practice Tips: Use a metronome to keep your timing consistent. Start at a slow tempo and gradually increase the speed as you become more comfortable. Record yourself playing and listen back to identify areas for improvement. Focus on maintaining a relaxed wrist to avoid fatigue and ensure smooth strumming.

Experiment with different strumming patterns to find what feels most natural to you, but always keep the original song in mind as a reference. Remember, practice makes perfect, so don't get discouraged if it takes a while to get the hang of it!

Song Structure and Tips for Playing

Understanding the song structure of "When I Was Young" will help you play it with confidence. The song generally follows a verse-chorus structure, with a few instrumental sections thrown in for good measure. Pay attention to the transitions between sections and the dynamics of the song. Knowing when to build up intensity and when to pull back will add depth and emotion to your performance. Additionally, understanding the lyrics and conveying the emotion behind them can elevate your playing and connect with your audience on a deeper level.

  • Verse-Chorus Structure: The song primarily alternates between verses and choruses. Each verse tells a story, while the chorus provides a catchy and memorable hook. Pay attention to the chord progressions and lyrical content in each section to understand the emotional arc of the song.
  • Transitions: Smooth transitions between sections are crucial for maintaining the flow of the song. Practice transitioning between verses, choruses, and instrumental sections until the changes become seamless. Use techniques like anticipatory chord changes or rhythmic fills to create smooth transitions.
  • Dynamics: Dynamics refer to the volume and intensity of your playing. Varying your dynamics can add depth and emotion to your performance. For example, you might play the verses more softly and build up to a louder and more intense chorus.
  • Emotional Connection: Understanding the meaning behind the lyrics and conveying the emotion of the song can elevate your playing and connect with your audience on a deeper level. Pay attention to the nuances of Rod Stewart's vocal delivery and try to capture the same emotional essence in your playing.
  • Listening Practice: Listen to the original recording of "When I Was Young" frequently. Pay attention to the interplay between the different instruments and the overall arrangement of the song. This will help you develop a deeper understanding of the song and inspire your own playing.

When playing, try to emulate Rod Stewart's raspy vocal style by adding a bit of grit to your voice – but don't overdo it! Most importantly, have fun with it and make the song your own. Don't be afraid to experiment with different interpretations and add your personal flair. Playing music is all about self-expression, so let your creativity shine!

Adding Your Own Flair

While it's essential to respect the original song, don't be afraid to add your own personal touch to "When I Was Young." Experiment with different strumming patterns, chord voicings, and even tempo variations to create a version that is uniquely yours. You could try adding a fingerpicking intro, incorporating a bluesy riff, or even transposing the song to a different key to better suit your vocal range. The possibilities are endless, so let your creativity run wild!

  • Experiment with Strumming: Try different strumming patterns to find what feels most natural to you. You could try adding syncopation, changing the rhythm, or incorporating different strumming techniques like palm muting or percussive strumming.
  • Chord Voicings: Explore different voicings of the chords to add color and texture to your playing. Try using inversions, adding extensions, or substituting chords to create a unique sound.
  • Tempo Variations: Experiment with playing the song at different tempos. You could try slowing it down for a more introspective feel or speeding it up for a more energetic vibe.
  • Fingerpicking: Try arranging the song for fingerpicking. This can add a delicate and intricate texture to the song and showcase your fingerstyle skills.
  • Bluesy Riffs: Incorporate bluesy riffs and licks to add a touch of soulfulness to the song. This can be a great way to showcase your improvisational skills and add your personal stamp to the song.

Remember, the goal is to create a version of the song that you enjoy playing and that reflects your unique musical personality. So, don't be afraid to take risks and try new things. Who knows, you might just come up with something amazing!

Final Thoughts

So there you have it, guys! Playing "When I Was Young" by Rod Stewart is a rewarding experience that will not only improve your guitar skills but also connect you with a timeless classic. Remember to practice regularly, be patient with yourself, and most importantly, have fun! With a little dedication and creativity, you'll be rocking this song in no time. Keep strumming, keep singing, and never stop exploring the wonderful world of music! Now go on and impress your friends and family with your newfound skills. Rock on!