how to play friends in low places guitar

3 min read 18-01-2025

how to play friends in low places guitar

Garth Brooks' "Friends in Low Places" is a country classic, beloved for its catchy tune and singalong chorus. Learning to play it on guitar is a rewarding experience, whether you're a seasoned pro or just starting out. This guide will walk you through the chords and strumming patterns to get you playing this iconic song.

Understanding the Chords

The beauty of "Friends in Low Places" lies in its relatively simple chord structure. The main chords you'll need to master are:

G major: A foundational chord in country music.
C major: Another essential major chord.
D major: A slightly more challenging chord, but achievable with practice.
Em (E minor): Adds a touch of melancholy to the song's overall feel.

Let's break down each chord's finger placement (assuming standard guitar tuning):

G Major

Index finger: Press down on the 6th string (low E) at the 3rd fret.
Middle finger: Press down on the 5th string (A) at the 2nd fret.
Ring finger: Press down on the 1st string (high E) at the 3rd fret.

C Major

Index finger: Press down on the 2nd string (B) at the 1st fret.
Middle finger: Press down on the 3rd string (G) at the 0th fret.
Ring finger: Press down on the 5th string (A) at the 3rd fret.

D Major

Index finger: Press down on the 1st string (high E) at the 2nd fret.
Middle finger: Press down on the 2nd string (B) at the 3rd fret.
Ring finger: Press down on the 3rd string (G) at the 2nd fret.

E Minor

Index finger: Press down on the 5th string (A) at the 2nd fret.
Ring finger: Press down on the 1st string (high E) at the 2nd fret.

Remember to practice these chords until you can switch between them smoothly. Use a metronome to develop good timing and accuracy.

Mastering the Strumming Pattern

The strumming pattern for "Friends in Low Places" is relatively straightforward. It involves a combination of downstrokes and upstrokes, creating a lively, upbeat rhythm.

A common strumming pattern is:

Down, Down, Up, Down, Up, Down

This pattern should be repeated throughout the verses and chorus. Experiment with slightly altering the rhythm to find a feel that suits your style. Try adding some rests (pauses) for emphasis. Listen to Garth Brooks' recording to get a better feel for the exact rhythm.

Putting it All Together: Verse and Chorus

The song mainly alternates between the chords G, C, and D. The Em chord appears occasionally for variation. A typical progression for a verse might look like this:

G - C - G - D

The chorus usually follows a similar pattern, possibly with slight variations.

Tips for Success

Practice Regularly: Consistency is key to mastering any song. Aim for at least 15-30 minutes of practice each day.
Listen Actively: Pay close attention to Garth Brooks' recording. Focus on the rhythm, timing, and phrasing.
Use a Metronome: A metronome helps improve timing and rhythm.
Start Slowly: Don't try to play too fast at first. Focus on accuracy and smoothness. Gradually increase the tempo as you become more comfortable.
Break it Down: Practice each section of the song individually before putting it all together.
Record Yourself: Recording yourself playing helps identify areas that need improvement.

Beyond the Basics: Adding Flair

Once you've mastered the basic chords and strumming pattern, you can add your own personal touch. Experiment with different strumming techniques, fingerpicking, or even adding some simple lead guitar parts.

Learning to play "Friends in Low Places" on guitar is a fantastic way to improve your skills and enjoy a country classic. With patience, practice, and a willingness to experiment, you'll be playing along in no time. So grab your guitar, and let the music begin!