How To Play Come As You Are On Guitar is a popular song by the American rock band Nirvana, released in 1991. It is one of the band’s most well-known songs and is considered a classic of the grunge genre.
The song is relatively easy to play on guitar, making it a good choice for beginner guitarists. The main riff is based on a simple power chord progression, and the solo is composed of a series of pentatonic scales.
In this article, we will provide a step-by-step guide on how to play Come As You Are on guitar. We will cover the main riff, the solo, and the strumming pattern.
1. Power chords
In the realm of guitar playing, power chords reign supreme as the driving force behind countless rock and alternative anthems, including Nirvana’s iconic “Come As You Are.” These chords, characterized by their robust, distorted sound, provide the rhythmic backbone upon which the song’s infectious energy unfolds.
- Simplicity and Impact: Power chords are renowned for their simplicity, consisting of only the root and fifth notes of a given scale. This stripped-down structure allows guitarists to effortlessly create powerful, resonant sounds that cut through the mix.
- Rhythmic Foundation: In “Come As You Are,” power chords form the rhythmic foundation, played with a steady downstroke motion. The repetitive nature of these chords creates a hypnotic pulse that propels the song forward and establishes a solid groove.
- Tonal Aggression: The distorted nature of power chords lends an aggressive, raw edge to the music. This tonal quality perfectly complements the song’s angst-ridden lyrics and the band’s signature grunge aesthetic.
- Transitional Tool: Power chords also serve as transitional devices, smoothly connecting different sections of the song. The seamless shifts between power chords and other chord voicings add depth and variety to the arrangement.
Mastering power chords is essential for capturing the essence of “Come As You Are” on guitar. Their simplicity, rhythmic drive, tonal aggression, and transitional versatility make them indispensable tools for any guitarist seeking to emulate the iconic sound of this grunge classic.
2. Pentatonic scale
In the realm of guitar playing, the pentatonic scale emerges as a versatile and expressive tool, particularly in the context of rock and blues music. Its simplicity and inherent melodic qualities make it an ideal choice for crafting captivating guitar solos, as exemplified in Nirvana’s iconic track “Come As You Are.”
- Simplicity and Accessibility: The pentatonic scale consists of just five notes, making it relatively easy to learn and play. This simplicity allows guitarists to focus on developing their technique and improvisational skills.
- Melodic Potential: Despite its limited number of notes, the pentatonic scale offers a wide range of melodic possibilities. Its inherent structure creates natural melodic contours and intervals, making it perfect for creating expressive and memorable solos.
- Tonal Flexibility: The pentatonic scale can be played over a variety of chords, providing guitarists with tonal flexibility. This versatility allows for seamless transitions between different sections of a song, adding depth and interest to the solo.
- Improvisational Framework: The pentatonic scale serves as an excellent framework for improvisation. Its limited number of notes reduces the risk of playing dissonant notes, giving guitarists the freedom to experiment and create unique and spontaneous solos.
In the context of “Come As You Are,” the pentatonic scale forms the melodic foundation of the guitar solo. Kurt Cobain’s skillful use of the scale allows him to create a haunting and emotionally charged solo that perfectly complements the song’s introspective lyrics.
3. Strumming pattern
In the musical tapestry of “Come As You Are,” the strumming pattern serves as the rhythmic backbone, propelling the song forward and establishing its distinct feel. It is a steady, eighth-note strumming pattern with a subtle syncopation on the third beat, creating a hypnotic pulse that perfectly complements the song’s introspective lyrics.
The strumming pattern not only provides rhythmic drive but also contributes significantly to the song’s overall mood and atmosphere. The consistent, unwavering strumming conveys a sense of urgency and determination, mirroring the protagonist’s emotional turmoil and desire for change.
Mastering the strumming pattern is essential for capturing the essence of “Come As You Are” on guitar. It requires a combination of precision and feel, ensuring that the strumming hand moves in a fluid and consistent motion. By practicing the strumming pattern slowly and gradually increasing the tempo, guitarists can develop the necessary dexterity and coordination.
Once the basic strumming pattern is mastered, guitarists can explore variations and embellishments to add their own personal touch to the song. For instance, they can experiment with different strumming techniques, such as palm muting or using a pick, to create different sonic textures.
4. Fingerpicking
In the realm of guitar playing, fingerpicking stands as a refined technique that involves using individual fingers to pluck the strings, creating a delicate and nuanced sound. In the context ofNirvana’s iconic track “Come As You Are,” fingerpicking plays a pivotal role in enhancing the song’s intro and adding depth to its overall texture.
The intro of “Come As You Are” features a mesmerizing fingerpicked arpeggio that sets the tone for the entire song. Kurt Cobain’s skillful use of fingerpicking creates an ethereal and introspective atmosphere, perfectly complementing the song’s introspective lyrics. The arpeggio’s gentle, flowing motion provides a sense of intimacy and vulnerability, drawing the listener into the song’s emotional core.
Beyond the intro, fingerpicking also adds depth and texture to the song’s verses and choruses. Cobain tastefully incorporates fingerpicked embellishments and fills throughout the song, providing subtle rhythmic and melodic variations. These embellishments add a human touch to the performance, preventing the song from becoming monotonous and predictable.
Mastering fingerpicking is essential for guitarists who wish to fully capture the essence of “Come As You Are.” It requires a combination of precision, dexterity, and a deep understanding of the guitar’s fretboard. By practicing fingerpicking exercises and studying the techniques of renowned fingerstyle guitarists, players can develop the skills necessary to perform this song with authenticity and nuance.
In conclusion, fingerpicking plays a vital role in “Come As You Are,” enhancing the intro with its delicate arpeggio and adding depth to the song’s verses and choruses with tasteful embellishments. Mastering this technique is crucial for guitarists who wish to perform this iconic track with authenticity and emotional resonance.
5. Tempo and dynamics
In the realm of music, tempo and dynamics play a pivotal role in shaping the mood, atmosphere, and emotional impact of a song. In the context of “Come As You Are” by Nirvana, understanding and controlling tempo and dynamics is essential for capturing the song’s raw emotional energy and conveying its intended message.
Tempo, measured in beats per minute (BPM), determines the pace or speed of a song. In “Come As You Are,” the tempo undergoes subtle yet effective changes throughout the song’s duration. The intro begins with a slow and deliberate tempo, creating a sense of anticipation and introspection. As the song progresses into the verse, the tempo gradually increases, mirroring the building intensity and frustration expressed in the lyrics.
Dynamics, on the other hand, refer to the volume and intensity of the music. In “Come As You Are,” Cobain masterfully employs dynamics to emphasize certain sections of the song and convey emotional nuances. The verses are played with a relatively quiet and restrained dynamic, highlighting the introspective and personal nature of the lyrics. In contrast, the chorus explodes with a sudden increase in volume and intensity, reflecting the raw emotional outburst and catharsis experienced by the protagonist.
Understanding the interplay between tempo and dynamics is crucial for guitarists who wish to perform “Come As You Are” with authenticity and emotional depth. By carefully controlling the tempo and dynamics, guitarists can create a dynamic and engaging performance that captures the song’s essence and resonates with the audience.
FAQs on “How To Play Come As You Are On Guitar”
This section addresses frequently asked questions, providing clear and informative answers.
Question 1: What is the difficulty level of playing “Come As You Are” on guitar?
The song is generally accessible to beginner and intermediate guitarists. The main riff and strumming pattern are relatively straightforward, while the solo may require some practice to master.
Question 2: What type of guitar is best suited for playing this song?
An electric guitar with a distortion or overdrive effect is recommended to achieve the characteristic grunge sound. However, the song can also be played on acoustic or classical guitars.
Question 3: What is the significance of the pentatonic scale in “Come As You Are”?
The pentatonic scale forms the basis of the guitar solo, providing a melodic framework for improvisation and creating a haunting and expressive atmosphere.
Question 4: How can I improve my strumming technique for this song?
Practice the strumming pattern slowly and gradually increase the tempo. Use a metronome to maintain a steady rhythm and focus on smooth transitions between chords.
Question 5: What are some tips for capturing the emotional intensity of the song?
Pay attention to the dynamics and tempo changes throughout the song. Use variations in volume and intensity to emphasize certain sections and convey the raw emotions expressed in the lyrics.
Question 6: Are there any online resources or tutorials that can help me learn this song?
Yes, numerous online resources, such as video tutorials, guitar tabs, and interactive lessons, are available to guide you through the process of playing “Come As You Are” on guitar.
In summary, playing “Come As You Are” on guitar requires a combination of technical skill and emotional interpretation. By understanding the fundamental techniques and practicing consistently, guitarists can capture the essence of this iconic grunge classic.
Proceed to the next section to explore additional insights and techniques related to playing “Come As You Are” on guitar.
Tips for Playing “Come As You Are” on Guitar
Mastering the iconic grunge anthem “Come As You Are” on guitar requires a combination of technical proficiency and emotional interpretation. Here are a few essential tips to help you elevate your performance:
Tip 1: Nail the Power ChordsThe song’s driving rhythm is built upon power chords. Practice transitioning smoothly between these chords while maintaining a steady downstroke motion.Tip 2: Explore the Pentatonic ScaleThe guitar solo is based on the pentatonic scale. Familiarize yourself with its five notes and experiment with improvising melodies within its framework.Tip 3: Master the Strumming PatternThe consistent eighth-note strumming pattern with a subtle syncopation on the third beat is crucial. Use a metronome to maintain a steady tempo and focus on fluid transitions.Tip 4: Incorporate FingerpickingThe intro’s delicate arpeggio adds depth to the song. Practice fingerpicking techniques to execute this section with precision and finesse.Tip 5: Control Tempo and DynamicsPay attention to the subtle changes in tempo and dynamics throughout the song. These variations convey the emotional intensity and narrative of the lyrics.Tip 6: Use Distortion or OverdriveTo achieve the characteristic grunge sound, employ distortion or overdrive effects on your electric guitar. Adjust the settings to create the desired level of distortion.Tip 7: Practice RegularlyConsistent practice is key to mastering any guitar piece. Dedicate regular time to practicing “Come As You Are,” focusing on accuracy, timing, and emotional expression.Tip 8: Listen to the Original RecordingImmerse yourself in the original recording of the song. Study Cobain’s guitar playing, paying attention to his techniques, phrasing, and interpretation.By implementing these tips, you can enhance your ability to play “Come As You Are” on guitar, capturing the raw energy and emotional depth that made it a grunge classic.
Proceed to the next section to explore additional insights and techniques related to playing “Come As You Are” on guitar.
Conclusion
Embarking on the journey to play “Come As You Are” on guitar unveils a treasure trove of technical and expressive techniques. Mastering power chords, exploring the pentatonic scale, and understanding the intricacies of strumming, fingerpicking, and dynamics are essential elements in capturing the heart of this grunge anthem.
Beyond technical proficiency, embracing the emotional depth of the song is paramount. By studying the original recording, guitarists can glean insights into Kurt Cobain’s phrasing, interpretation, and the raw energy he infused into his performance. Consistent practice, coupled with a deep appreciation for the song’s message, empowers guitarists to deliver a performance that resonates with authenticity and emotional impact.
Playing “Come As You Are” on guitar transcends mere technical execution; it is a testament to the enduring power of grunge music and its ability to connect with listeners on a profound level. By embracing the techniques and insights outlined in this article, guitarists can unlock the secrets of this iconic song and pay homage to the legacy of Nirvana.
