7/01/2023

How to Play "Calm Down" by Rema & Selena Gomez on Guitar: Tutorial and Tab Breakdown

Have you ever wanted to play a popular song on the guitar but felt intimidated by complex chords and intricate melodies? Well, fret no more! In this tutorial, Ellen, a talented guitarist, shares an incredibly easy song that you can learn to play in no time. 

Whether you're a beginner or just looking for a fun jam session, Ellen (for3v3rfaithful) breaks down the song's chords, rhythm, strumming patterns, and even includes a melody line. So, grab your guitar, tune it to standard tuning, and let's get started!



A Song with Two Chords

Ellen wastes no time in revealing the simplicity of this song. By using a capo on the fourth fret and knowing just two chords, you'll be able to play along effortlessly. The chords required for this song are C major and G major. If you want to add a bit of flair, you can also incorporate the D major chord. Ellen demonstrates how to position your fingers for each chord and encourages you to practice transitioning smoothly between them.


Mastering the Rhythm and Counting

One of the key elements in playing this song successfully lies in counting. Ellen explains the rhythm pattern, guiding you through the song's structure. The song follows a consistent progression of C, D, G chords in that order. By counting beats in sets of eight, Ellen simplifies the song's timing, making it easy to follow along. She breaks down the strumming pattern, suggesting starting with simple down strums or experimenting with more complex patterns.


Adding Melody to the Mix

In addition to chords and strumming, Ellen introduces a delightful melody line that weaves throughout the song. With the C chord in place, she demonstrates how to pluck alternating strings (A and D) to create a catchy and melodic phrase. Similarly, when transitioning to the G chord, Ellen shows you how to play between the low E and A strings. These melodies add a touch of flair to your playing and can be easily mastered with a bit of practice.


Strumming Suggestions and Personalization

Get creative with your strumming patterns! The song lends itself well to experimentation. Whether you choose to strum, pick, or even collaborate with a friend who plays the guitar, the goal is to have fun and make the song your own. It is important to maintain a jammy and upbeat feel throughout, enabling you to infuse your own style into the music.


Putting it All Together

Ellen guides you through the entire song, demonstrating how to combine the chords, rhythm, and melody. Whether you decide to strum or pick, or a combination of both, Ellen's instructions and demonstration will help you achieve a great performance.



Learning to play the guitar doesn't have to be complicated, especially when Ellen is here to break it down for you. This tutorial has shown you that even a song with just two chords can be incredibly fun and rewarding to play. By mastering the rhythm, exploring various strumming patterns, and adding catchy melodies, you can create your own unique interpretation of the song. So, grab your guitar, follow Ellen's guidance, and embark on an enjoyable musical journey. Happy strumming!

No comments:

Post a Comment