Learn 'Somebody That I Used To Know' Chords

by Jhon Lennon 44 views

Hey music lovers! Ever wanted to learn how to play Gotye's super-catchy tune, "Somebody That I Used to Know" on your guitar? Well, you're in luck, because we're diving deep into the chords and some cool playing tips to get you strumming along in no time. This song is an absolute classic, and once you get the hang of it, you'll be able to impress your friends and maybe even serenade a special someone (or just yourself!). Let's get started, shall we?

The Essential Chords for 'Somebody That I Used to Know'

Alright, let's break down the main chords you'll need. This song isn't overly complicated, which makes it perfect for guitarists of all levels, from beginners to more experienced players looking to add a new song to their repertoire. The core of "Somebody That I Used to Know" revolves around just a few key chords. We'll explore each one, providing the chord diagrams and some tips to make sure your playing sounds fantastic.

The main chords are: Am, Dm, G, and C.

  1. Am (A minor): This is a staple chord and forms the backbone of many songs. Place your fingers as follows:

    • Index finger: 1st fret of the B string.
    • Middle finger: 2nd fret of the D string.
    • Ring finger: 2nd fret of the G string.
    • Strum all strings except the low E.

  2. Dm (D minor): Another common chord that adds a touch of melancholy. Here's how to play it:

    • Index finger: 1st fret of the E string.
    • Middle finger: 2nd fret of the G string.
    • Ring finger: 3rd fret of the D string.
    • Strum all strings.

  3. G major: This chord brings a brighter, more optimistic feel. Here's the finger placement:

    • Index finger: 2nd fret of the A string.
    • Middle finger: 3rd fret of the E string.
    • Ring finger: 3rd fret of the high E string.
    • Strum all strings.

  4. C major: A familiar chord that fits beautifully into many progressions.

    • Index finger: 1st fret of the B string.
    • Middle finger: 2nd fret of the D string.
    • Ring finger: 3rd fret of the A string.
    • Strum all strings.

Mastering these chords is the first step toward playing "Somebody That I Used to Know." Remember to practice slowly at first, focusing on clean transitions between chords. This way you'll be sounding awesome in no time! Keep practicing, and you'll find that your fingers will quickly remember the shapes.

Strumming Pattern and Song Structure

Now that you know the chords, let's talk about the strumming pattern and the structure of the song. Gotye's "Somebody That I Used to Know" has a distinct feel, and getting the strumming right is crucial for capturing that vibe. Don't worry, it's not super complex. We'll break it down so you can nail it.

The strumming pattern is primarily a down-down-up-down-up, or a variation of it. You can experiment with this to find what feels most natural to you. Here's a basic guide:

  • Down: Strum down on the beat.
  • Down: Another down strum.
  • Up: Strum up on the beat.
  • Down: Strum down.
  • Up: Strum up.

As for the song structure, it generally follows this pattern:

  • Intro: Am - Dm - Am - Dm
  • Verse 1: Am - Dm - G - C
  • Chorus: Am - Dm - G - C
  • Verse 2: Am - Dm - G - C
  • Chorus: Am - Dm - G - C
  • Bridge: Am - Dm - Am - Dm (This part might have a different strumming pattern or fingerpicking, so listen closely to the original song.)
  • Chorus: Am - Dm - G - C
  • Outro: Am - Dm - Am - Dm

Pay close attention to the transitions between chords and how they fit into the overall rhythm of the song. Listen carefully to the original track to get the timing just right. Practice these transitions slowly at first, then gradually increase your speed. The goal is to make the changes smooth and seamless.

Tips and Tricks for Playing the Song Like a Pro

Want to take your "Somebody That I Used to Know" playing to the next level? Here are some tips and tricks that will help you sound even better. We'll explore some techniques you can incorporate to make your rendition stand out. Let's make your playing even more awesome!

  1. Dynamics: Pay attention to the dynamics of the song. Gotye's song uses variations in volume to create emotional impact. Start quietly during the verses and build up to a more powerful sound during the choruses. Use your strumming hand to control the volume, strumming softly for quieter parts and harder for louder parts.
  2. Fingerpicking: In the bridge or during the intro, you could try using fingerpicking instead of strumming. This can add a delicate touch. Experiment with picking individual strings to create a more intricate sound. For example, you could pick the bass note of the chord on the downbeat, followed by other strings. This requires some practice, but it's worth the effort.
  3. Use a Capo: If you want to play along with the original recording (or if you find it easier to sing in a different key), consider using a capo. The original song is in the key of A minor. You can put a capo on the first fret to play in A# minor or second for B minor.
  4. Practice with the Original Song: Play along with the original recording of "Somebody That I Used to Know." This will help you get the timing, rhythm, and feel of the song just right. Listen carefully to the nuances in Gotye's playing, and try to replicate them.
  5. Record Yourself: Record yourself playing the song. This will help you identify areas where you need to improve, such as chord transitions, strumming patterns, and overall timing. Listen back and be your own best critic.

Advanced Techniques

Ready to get fancy? Here are some advanced techniques that can enhance your rendition of "Somebody That I Used to Know." Let's add some flair to your playing!

  1. Chord Inversions: Experiment with chord inversions. This involves playing the same chords but with a different note in the bass. For example, instead of playing a standard Am, you could play an Am/G (A minor with a G in the bass). This adds a slightly different color to the chord, making the song more interesting. This will require you to know a bit about the theory.
  2. Add Embellishments: Try adding small embellishments to your chords. For example, before switching to the G chord, try adding a Gsus4 (G suspended fourth). This will add tension and release, making the transitions more dynamic. Use the space between chords to add a little flair.
  3. Vary Your Strumming: While the down-down-up-down-up strumming pattern is great, don't be afraid to change it up. Try different rhythmic patterns or add syncopation to keep things interesting. Syncopation is when you emphasize off-beats or unexpected notes.
  4. Experiment with Harmonics: Learn to use natural or artificial harmonics to add a unique texture to your playing. This will require some practice, but the effect can be quite magical.

Practice Makes Perfect

Learning to play "Somebody That I Used to Know" takes time and practice. Be patient with yourself, and don't get discouraged if you don't get it right away. The key is consistent practice and dedication. Listen to the song repeatedly, and familiarize yourself with the chords and the strumming pattern.

Start slowly, focusing on making clean chord changes and maintaining a steady rhythm. Gradually increase the tempo as you become more comfortable. Break the song down into smaller sections, and practice each section individually before putting them together. Most of all, have fun! Music should be enjoyable, so relax and let the creativity flow.

Conclusion

So there you have it, folks! Now you have all the tools you need to start playing "Somebody That I Used to Know" on your guitar. Remember to be patient, practice regularly, and have fun. The more you practice, the better you'll get, and soon you'll be strumming along to this awesome song with confidence. Keep playing, and keep the music alive. Happy playing! Now go out there and impress someone with your musical skills! Remember, music is a journey, not a destination. Embrace the process, and enjoy every note you play.