What Makes You Beautiful Chords: 5 Easy Versions for Guitar
Meta Description: Learn to play One Direction’s “What Makes You Beautiful” on guitar with these 5 easy chord versions! This guide provides simplified chord charts, strumming patterns, and tips for beginners.
Introduction:
One Direction’s “What Makes You Beautiful” is a timeless pop anthem that’s incredibly fun to play on the guitar. Whether you’re a seasoned guitarist or just starting, this song is surprisingly accessible. This comprehensive guide provides five easy versions of the “What Makes You Beautiful” guitar chords, catering to different skill levels. We’ll break down the chords, strumming patterns, and offer helpful tips to get you playing along in no time. Learning these “What Makes You Beautiful” guitar chords is a fantastic way to expand your repertoire and impress your friends.
1. The Absolute Beginner Version: Using Only 3 Chords
This version uses only three basic chords: G, C, and D. It’s perfect for those just learning guitar and provides a great foundation for more complex arrangements.
Understanding the Basic Chords:
- G Major: Place your fingers on the 6th string (3rd fret), 5th string (2nd fret), and 1st string (3rd fret).
- C Major: Place your fingers on the 5th string (3rd fret), 4th string (2nd fret), and 2nd string (1st fret).
- D Major: Place your fingers on the 5th string (2nd fret), 4th string (3rd fret), and 2nd string (2nd fret).
Strumming Pattern:
A simple down-down-up-down-up strumming pattern works well with this version. Experiment with variations once you’re comfortable.
2. Adding a Little Flair: Incorporating the A7 Chord
This version introduces the A7 chord, adding a richer harmonic texture to the song.
Mastering the A7 Chord:
The A7 chord is a little more complex, requiring you to place your fingers on the 5th string (2nd fret), 4th string (2nd fret), 3rd string (0 fret), and 2nd string (2nd fret).
Modified Strumming Pattern:
Try incorporating the A7 chord into the strumming pattern. A suggestion could be: G – C – G – D – A7 – G.
3. The Capo Version: Simplifying Chord Shapes
Using a capo on the second fret simplifies the chord shapes significantly.
Using a Capo:
Place a capo on the second fret of your guitar. This will effectively raise the pitch of the song by two semitones. This will make the chords easier to play. The chords used become: A – D – E.
4. What Makes You Beautiful Guitar Chords: Fingerpicking Style
This variation focuses on fingerpicking, offering a more nuanced and melodic approach.
Fingerpicking Pattern:
A simple fingerpicking pattern could be: Thumb on the bass notes (6th and 5th strings), index finger on the 3rd string, middle finger on the 2nd string, and ring finger on the 1st string.
Chord Progression:
The same basic chord progression (G, C, D, A7) can be used, but the focus shifts to the melodic aspect.
5. Advanced Version: Adding 7th Chords and Barre Chords
This version incorporates 7th chords and barre chords for a more sophisticated sound, suitable for intermediate players.
7th Chords and Barre Chords:
Learn to play G7, Cmaj7, D7, and Am7. These will add complexity and depth to your performance. The use of barre chords will depend on your preference and expertise.
Tips for Mastering “What Makes You Beautiful” Guitar Chords
- Practice Regularly: Consistent practice is key to mastering any song. Even 15-30 minutes a day makes a difference.
- Listen Carefully: Pay close attention to the original recording to understand the rhythm and timing.
- Use a Metronome: A metronome helps to develop a steady rhythm and improve timing.
- Break it Down: Don’t try to learn the entire song at once. Break it down into smaller sections.
- Record Yourself: Recording yourself playing helps identify areas for improvement.
FAQ
- Q: What is the best way to learn guitar chords for beginners? A: Start with easy chords like G, C, and D. Use chord diagrams and online resources, and practice regularly.
- Q: Are there any apps or websites that can help me learn “What Makes You Beautiful” guitar chords? A: Yes, many websites and apps offer chord charts and tutorials for this song. Link to Ultimate Guitar and Link to Songsterr are great resources.
- Q: How can I improve my strumming technique? A: Practice different strumming patterns while using a metronome, and focus on consistent rhythm and dynamics.
- Q: How long will it take me to learn this song? A: This depends on your prior experience and practice frequency. With consistent practice, beginners might take a few weeks, while experienced players may learn it much faster.
Conclusion:
Mastering the “What Makes You Beautiful” guitar chords is a rewarding experience, no matter your skill level. By following these easy versions and tips, you’ll be strumming along to this classic pop hit in no time. Remember to practice regularly, use resources like online guitar tabs, and don’t be afraid to experiment with different strumming patterns and variations. Learning these “What Makes You Beautiful guitar chords” opens the door to playing countless other songs. So grab your guitar and start playing!
Call to Action: Ready to take your guitar skills to the next level? Check out our other easy guitar tutorials for more popular songs! [Link to other guitar tutorials on the website – internal link]
So there you have it: five simplified versions of the iconic One Direction hit, “What Makes You Beautiful,” tailored for guitarists of varying skill levels. We’ve progressed from a completely beginner-friendly version utilizing only basic chords, perfect for those just starting their musical journey, to more intricate arrangements incorporating barre chords and strumming patterns that add complexity and depth. Furthermore, each version offers a slightly different feel, allowing you to experiment and find the arrangement that best suits your personal style and preferences. Remember, the beauty of learning guitar lies in the journey of discovery; don’t be afraid to experiment with different voicings, strumming techniques and tempos to truly personalize these arrangements. In addition to the chord charts presented, consider exploring online resources such as YouTube tutorials which often provide visual demonstrations of finger positioning and strumming patterns, further augmenting your learning experience. Consequently, you will find that consistent practice, even just for short periods each day, is key to mastering these songs and developing your overall guitar skills. Therefore, don’t be discouraged by any initial challenges; rather, view them as opportunities for growth and improvement. Embrace the process of learning, and soon enough, you’ll be confidently strumming along to “What Makes You Beautiful” – and many other songs – with ease and enjoyment.
Beyond simply learning the chords, it’s crucial to focus on developing a strong understanding of music theory alongside your practical playing. Understanding the underlying structure of the song, including the key, rhythm, and chord progressions, will not only improve your playing accuracy but will also enhance your overall musicality. Moreover, paying attention to dynamics – the variations in volume and intensity – will add expression and emotion to your performance. Experiment with different strumming patterns; try alternating between downstrokes and upstrokes, or incorporate rest strokes to create a more nuanced and interesting sound. Additionally, consider the use of fingerpicking, as this technique can add texture and depth to the melody. This, in turn, will give your rendition of “What Makes You Beautiful” a unique and personalized touch. Ultimately, the goal is not merely to play the chords correctly but to convey the feeling and spirit of the song, allowing your own musicality to shine through. So practice regularly, experiment creatively, and most importantly, have fun! That’s the best way to truly master any song and enjoy the beautiful journey of learning the guitar.
Finally, remember that learning an instrument is a continuous process of growth and refinement. As your skills develop, you might find yourself revisiting these simplified arrangements and discovering opportunities to add your own personal flair. Perhaps you’ll want to experiment with adding a capo to change the key, or incorporate embellishments such as hammer-ons, pull-offs, or slides to add a more advanced touch. Likewise, you might choose to explore other versions of the song, or even attempt the original arrangement, once you feel confident enough. The possibilities are endless. In conclusion, we hope this guide has provided you with a solid foundation for learning “What Makes You Beautiful” on the guitar. We encourage you to continue practicing, exploring, and most importantly, enjoying the rewarding experience of making music. So pick up your guitar, strum those chords, and let the music flow! Happy playing!
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