Easy Sad Songs: We The Kings Chords Tutorial
Hey guys! Ever wanted to learn some super emotional We The Kings songs on your guitar? You've come to the right place! In this guide, we'll break down some of their most heart-wrenching tracks with easy-to-follow chord progressions. Whether you're a beginner or just looking to expand your repertoire of sad tunes, this is your ultimate resource. Grab your guitar, and let’s dive in!
Why We The Kings?
We The Kings are masters of capturing raw emotion in their music. Their songs often explore themes of love, loss, and longing, making them perfect for those days when you just need a good cry or want to express some heavy feelings through music. Plus, many of their tracks use relatively simple chord structures, making them accessible to guitarists of all skill levels. Understanding the emotional depth behind their music and how it translates into chord progressions can significantly enhance your playing experience.
Their ability to blend catchy melodies with deeply relatable lyrics has earned them a dedicated fanbase. As you learn these songs, pay attention to the nuances in the lyrics and how they align with the chord changes. This will not only help you play the songs more accurately but also allow you to connect with the music on a deeper level. We The Kings’ songs resonate because they tap into universal experiences of love, heartbreak, and nostalgia, making them timeless classics for anyone who’s ever felt a bit down.
Moreover, diving into We The Kings' discography is a fantastic way to improve your guitar skills. Their songs offer a variety of chord progressions and strumming patterns that can help you develop your technique. By mastering these songs, you'll not only expand your musical knowledge but also gain a better understanding of how to create emotionally resonant music yourself. So, get ready to explore the world of We The Kings and unlock your inner emotional guitarist!
Getting Started: Basic Chords You'll Need
Before we jump into specific songs, let’s make sure you know the basic chords commonly used in We The Kings' sad songs. These include:
- G Major
- C Major
- D Major
- Em (E minor)
- Am (A minor)
These chords form the foundation for many of their popular tracks. If you're not already familiar with them, take some time to practice transitioning smoothly between each chord. Smooth transitions are key to playing these songs fluidly and capturing the emotional essence of the music. There are tons of online resources, including videos and diagrams, that can help you master these chords if you're just starting out. Remember, practice makes perfect, so don't get discouraged if it takes a little while to get the hang of it.
Also, it's a good idea to practice these chords in different sequences to build muscle memory. Try alternating between G and C, then C and D, and so on. This will help you anticipate the chord changes and make your playing more seamless. Once you're comfortable with the basic chords, you can start exploring variations and embellishments to add your own personal touch to the songs. For example, try adding a pinky to the G chord on the third fret of the B string to create a G6 chord, or experiment with different strumming patterns to find what sounds best to you.
Lastly, make sure your guitar is properly tuned before you start playing. A poorly tuned guitar can make even the simplest chords sound off, so it's important to have a reliable tuner and check your tuning regularly. Many free tuning apps are available for smartphones that can help you tune your guitar quickly and accurately. Once your guitar is in tune and you're comfortable with the basic chords, you'll be well-equipped to tackle the sad songs of We The Kings with confidence and skill!
"Sad Song" - Chord Breakdown
"Sad Song" is a quintessential We The Kings track that tugs at the heartstrings. Here’s a simple chord version perfect for beginners:
- Verse: G, D, Em, C
- Chorus: C, G, D, Em
- Bridge: Am, C, G, D
This song is all about dynamics. Start soft during the verses to build anticipation, then really dig in during the chorus to emphasize the emotion. Pay attention to the strumming pattern as well. A simple down-down-up-down-up pattern works well, but feel free to experiment and find what feels natural to you. The key is to let the emotion of the song guide your playing. As you become more comfortable with the chords, try adding some embellishments, such as hammer-ons or pull-offs, to add your own personal touch to the song.
The bridge of "Sad Song" is where the song really builds to its emotional climax. Make sure to emphasize the changes between the Am, C, G, and D chords to capture the feeling of longing and desperation. You can also try adding a slight pause before each chord change to create a sense of anticipation. During the final chorus, don't be afraid to really let loose and sing your heart out. This is where the song's emotional power truly shines through. Remember, "Sad Song" is all about expressing raw emotion, so don't be afraid to let your feelings guide your playing and singing.
To make the song even more engaging, consider adding a simple bass line or harmony vocal. This can help fill out the sound and add depth to the song. You can also try transposing the song to a different key if the original key doesn't suit your vocal range. The most important thing is to make the song your own and find a way to connect with it on a personal level. With a little practice and creativity, you'll be able to play "Sad Song" with all the emotion and passion it deserves.
"Check Yes Juliet" - Acoustic Version Chords
While the original is upbeat, the acoustic version of "Check Yes Juliet" brings out a different, more melancholic vibe. The chords are:
- Verse: Em, C, G, D
- Chorus: C, G, D, Em
The beauty of this version lies in its simplicity. The Em, C, G, D progression is easy to remember, but the way you play it can convey so much emotion. Try fingerpicking the chords instead of strumming for a softer, more intimate feel. Focus on bringing out the melody in your playing and let the lyrics speak for themselves. The acoustic version strips away the pop-punk energy of the original, allowing the underlying emotion of the song to shine through. It's a great way to showcase the versatility of We The Kings' songwriting and how their songs can be interpreted in different ways.
Also, experiment with different voicings of the chords to add depth and complexity to your playing. For example, try playing a Cmaj7 chord instead of a regular C chord, or add a sus4 to the G chord for a more ethereal sound. These small changes can make a big difference in the overall feel of the song. Pay attention to the dynamics of the song as well. Start soft during the verses and gradually build to a more powerful chorus. This will help create a sense of drama and keep the listener engaged.
Don't be afraid to add your own personal touches to the song. Try adding a simple guitar solo or improvising over the chord changes. The acoustic version of "Check Yes Juliet" is a blank canvas, so feel free to get creative and make it your own. Most importantly, have fun and let your emotions guide your playing. With a little practice and creativity, you'll be able to transform this upbeat pop-punk anthem into a hauntingly beautiful acoustic ballad.
"Skyway Avenue" - Simple Chords
"Skyway Avenue" is another great choice for exploring We The Kings' emotional side. Here are the basic chords you'll need:
- Intro: C, G, Am, F
- Verse: C, G, Am, F
- Chorus: F, C, G, Am
This song has a beautiful, nostalgic quality to it. The C, G, Am, F progression is both simple and evocative, creating a sense of longing and reflection. Focus on creating a smooth, flowing sound by using gentle strumming patterns and smooth chord transitions. The intro sets the tone for the entire song, so make sure to play it with feeling. Let the notes ring out and create a sense of atmosphere.
During the verses, pay attention to the lyrics and try to convey the emotion of the story through your playing. Use dynamics to build to the chorus and create a sense of release. The chorus is where the song really takes off, so don't be afraid to let loose and sing your heart out. Experiment with different strumming patterns to find what feels right for you. A simple down-down-up-down-up pattern works well, but you can also try adding some syncopation to create a more interesting rhythm.
To add depth to the song, consider adding a simple bass line or harmony vocal. You can also try transposing the song to a different key if the original key doesn't suit your vocal range. The most important thing is to make the song your own and find a way to connect with it on a personal level. With a little practice and creativity, you'll be able to play "Skyway Avenue" with all the emotion and beauty it deserves. So grab your guitar, tune it up, and get ready to explore the nostalgic soundscape of "Skyway Avenue."
Tips for Playing Sad Songs
- Dynamics are Key: Vary your strumming intensity to match the song's emotional peaks and valleys.
- Feel the Lyrics: Understand the meaning behind the words to better convey the emotion.
- Experiment with Strumming: Try different patterns to find what best suits the song and your style.
- Use Fingerpicking: For a more intimate and delicate sound, fingerpicking can add a lot of emotion.
When playing sad songs, remember that it's not just about hitting the right chords; it's about conveying the emotion behind the music. Think about what the song is about and how it makes you feel. Let those feelings guide your playing and singing. Don't be afraid to close your eyes and get lost in the music.
Experiment with different techniques to add depth and texture to your playing. Try adding vibrato to your chords or using a slide to create a sense of longing. You can also try adding some simple embellishments, such as hammer-ons or pull-offs, to add your own personal touch to the song. Pay attention to the details and try to capture the nuances of the original recording.
Most importantly, be patient and persistent. Learning to play sad songs well takes time and practice. Don't get discouraged if you don't sound perfect right away. Keep practicing and experimenting, and you'll eventually develop your own unique style. Remember, the goal is not just to play the notes correctly but to connect with the music on an emotional level and share that emotion with others.
Conclusion
Learning these sad songs by We The Kings is a fantastic way to improve your guitar skills and connect with your emotions. So grab your guitar, start practicing, and let the music flow through you. You'll be surprised at how much you can express with just a few simple chords. Happy playing!
By exploring the chord progressions and emotional depth of these songs, you'll not only expand your musical repertoire but also gain a deeper appreciation for the art of songwriting. Remember, music is a powerful tool for expressing emotions and connecting with others. So don't be afraid to use it to explore your own feelings and share them with the world. With a little practice and dedication, you'll be able to play these sad songs with all the emotion and passion they deserve. So go ahead, grab your guitar, and let the music begin!