how to be yours chords

Daniel Parker

2 min read

·

07-02-2025

1

0

Share

How to Play "How To Be Yours" by Lewis Capaldi: A Chord Guide for Beginners and Beyond

Lewis Capaldi's "How To Be Yours" is a beautiful and emotionally resonant ballad that's captivated audiences worldwide. Its simplicity and heartfelt lyrics make it a popular choice for aspiring musicians. This guide will break down the chords, offering variations for different skill levels, and provide tips for mastering this heartfelt song.

I. Understanding the Basic Chords

The core of "How To Be Yours" relies on a few fundamental chords, making it accessible to beginners. The main chords used are:

• G Major (G): 320003
• C Major (C): x32010
• D Major (D): xx0232
• Em (E minor): 022000

These are all open chords, meaning you don't need to bar any strings. Learning these four chords is a great foundation for playing countless other songs.

II. The Basic Chord Progression

The song primarily follows a simple, yet effective, progression:

G - C - D - Em

This progression is repeated throughout most of the verses and chorus. The simplicity allows the focus to remain on Capaldi's emotive vocals and the song's poignant message.

III. Adding Depth and Variation

While the basic progression is sufficient, you can add nuances to elevate your performance:

• Capo: Using a capo changes the key of the song without altering the finger positions. Experiment with different capo placements to find a comfortable key for your vocal range. A capo on the second fret, for example, shifts the song to A major, potentially making it easier for some singers.

• Strumming Patterns: Don't limit yourself to a simple downstroke pattern. Explore different strumming patterns to create dynamics and interest. Try incorporating upstrokes, arpeggios, or rhythmic variations to match the song's emotional ebb and flow.

• Adding a Bassline: If you're comfortable with it, consider adding a simple bassline. This can significantly enhance the fullness and depth of your performance. Focus on playing the root notes of each chord (G, C, D, and E) to create a strong foundation.

IV. Mastering the Transitions

Smooth transitions between chords are key to a polished performance. Practice switching smoothly from one chord to the next, ensuring clean changes without any missed notes or unnecessary pauses. Slow practice is crucial here. Focus on accuracy before speed.

V. Beyond the Basics

For more advanced players, you might explore incorporating some embellishments:

• Passing Chords: Experiment with adding passing chords (chords briefly played between the main chords) to create richer harmonic textures.

• Inversions: Playing chord inversions changes the voicing of the chord, adding subtle harmonic variations.

• Sevenths: Adding seventh chords (e.g., G7, C7) can add a more sophisticated and jazzy feel.

VI. Resources and Further Learning

Numerous online resources can assist you, including:

• YouTube Tutorials: Search for "How To Be Yours Lewis Capaldi Guitar Tutorial" for video demonstrations. Many tutorials cater to different skill levels.

• Ultimate Guitar: Websites like Ultimate-Guitar.com provide chord charts and tabs for various instruments.

• Chord Charts Apps: Several mobile apps offer chord diagrams and strumming patterns.

VII. Conclusion: Embrace the Journey

Learning "How To Be Yours" is a rewarding experience. Don't be discouraged if you don't master it immediately. Consistent practice, patience, and a focus on accuracy will lead to a beautiful rendition of this moving song. Remember to enjoy the process of learning and expressing yourself through music!