Simple 3-Step System for Figuring Out Songs on Guitar

Have you ever marveled at musicians who can listen to a song once and effortlessly figure out the chords without relying on tabs or sheet music? It may seem like a skill reserved for musical geniuses or prodigies, but the truth is, anyone can do it.

In this video by Andrew Clarke, we will explore a simple 3-step system that allows you to find the chords to almost any song. Whether you're a beginner or an experienced player, this method will empower you to unlock the secrets of any tune. Visit his channel!

• Step 1: Finding the Key
  The first step in deciphering a song's chords is to identify the key it is played in. To do this, you can use a major scale shape and move it around the fretboard until it fits harmoniously with the song. The video demonstrates this process, emphasizing the importance of connecting your fingers to your ears. By practicing ear training, you can train your musical intuition to recognize the correct key.
  
  
• Step 2: Applying the Roadmap
  Once you have determined the key of the song, it's time to apply the chord roadmap. The roadmap is a visual representation of chord shapes that remain consistent regardless of the key. By using barre chords or power chords, you create a movable map that allows you to play chords in any key without altering their shape. This method simplifies chord progressions and facilitates quick transitions between chords.
  
  
• Step 3: Listening and Locating
  The final step involves using your ears to identify chord changes within the song. As you listen attentively, pay close attention to where the chords shift. By trying out the chords from the key you established in Step 1, you can determine which ones fit the song. Experimentation and practice will help you refine your ability to locate the correct chords accurately.

The 3-Step System in Action:

In the video, Andrew demonstrates the 3-step system with a couple of song examples. By following the process, he quickly identifies the key, maps out the diatonic chords within that key, and listens for the chord changes to locate the correct chords. The simplicity and effectiveness of this method are evident as he successfully figures out the chords of the songs.

Discovering the chords to a song by ear is an invaluable skill that can elevate your musical journey. With the 3-step system outlined in the video and discussed in this article, you can confidently and accurately figure out the chords to almost any song. Remember, practice and ear training are key to honing this skill. As you train your ears to recognize intervals and chord progressions, you will become more proficient in decoding the musical language.

So, grab your instrument, listen closely, and let the magic of finding chords by ear unfold. With a little patience and dedication, you'll be amazed at how quickly you can play along with your favorite songs and create your own musical interpretations.