How to Play “Tears in Heaven” Chords
Are you a fan of Eric Clapton’s iconic song “Tears in Heaven”? Do you want to learn how to play the beautiful chords that make this song so memorable? Look no further! In this article, we will guide you through the essential chords and techniques needed to play “Tears in Heaven” like a pro.
Understanding the Chords
“Tears in Heaven” is primarily played in the key of A minor. The song features a simple yet effective chord progression that includes the following chords: A minor, D major, E minor, and G major. Familiarizing yourself with these chords is the first step in mastering the song.
Playing the Chords
To play the A minor chord, place your index finger on the second fret of the fifth string, your middle finger on the second fret of the fourth string, and your ring finger on the second fret of the third string. Your pinky should rest on the first string, but it doesn’t need to press down on the string.
For the D major chord, move your index finger to the second fret of the fifth string, your middle finger to the second fret of the fourth string, and your ring finger to the second fret of the third string. Your pinky should still rest on the first string.
To play the E minor chord, move your index finger to the second fret of the fifth string, your middle finger to the second fret of the fourth string, and your ring finger to the second fret of the second string. Your pinky should rest on the first string.
Finally, for the G major chord, place your index finger on the second fret of the fifth string, your middle finger on the second fret of the fourth string, and your ring finger on the second fret of the third string. Your pinky should rest on the first string.
Strumming Pattern
The strumming pattern for “Tears in Heaven” is relatively simple. To achieve the classic sound, use a downstroke on the first beat of each measure, followed by an upstroke on the second beat. For example, if you’re playing the A minor chord, you would strum down on the first beat and up on the second beat.
Practice and Tips
Like any skill, playing “Tears in Heaven” chords requires practice. Here are a few tips to help you improve:
1. Start by practicing each chord individually to ensure you can play them cleanly and accurately.
2. Once you’re comfortable with the chords, try playing the chord progression in sequence.
3. Record yourself playing the song to identify areas where you need improvement.
4. Don’t be afraid to experiment with different strumming patterns and dynamics to add your own touch to the song.
Conclusion
Learning how to play “Tears in Heaven” chords can be a rewarding experience for any guitar player. By understanding the chord progression, practicing the chords, and experimenting with the strumming pattern, you’ll be able to play this beautiful song with confidence. Happy playing!
