Unlocking 'Everytime You Walk Away Or Run Away': Chords & Guitar Guide
Hey music lovers! Ready to dive into the beautiful and emotional world of "Everytime You Walk Away or Run Away"? Whether you're a seasoned guitarist or just strumming your first chords, this guide is designed to help you master this awesome song. We'll break down the chords, discuss the music theory, and even offer some tips for fingerstyle and acoustic guitar playing. So, grab your guitar (or ukulele, or piano – we're inclusive!), and let's get started. This isn't just about learning chords; it's about understanding the song, feeling the music, and making it your own. Let's make learning fun and accessible for everyone. No matter your skill level, we're here to help you get there!
Understanding the Basics: Chords and Song Structure
First things first, let's talk about the core components of the song. "Everytime You Walk Away or Run Away" is built on a foundation of relatively simple, yet effective, chords. The song's structure typically follows a common pattern: verse, chorus, verse, chorus, bridge, chorus. Understanding this structure will help you anticipate the changes and play along smoothly. The main chords used are usually easy to play, which makes it perfect for beginners. The beauty of this song lies in its simplicity. By mastering a few key chords, you can play the entire song. This includes your basic open chords and maybe a few barre chords, depending on the arrangement you choose. Understanding the sequence of chords is critical for playing along. The verse often sets the scene with a series of chords, while the chorus provides the emotional payoff, often with slightly different chords or a change in rhythm. The bridge offers a change of pace, and then the chorus brings it all back home. We'll walk you through each section step-by-step so you can play this song! The use of the same chords over and over makes it easy to follow. Knowing this, you can now learn to play!
Essential Chords and Their Fingerings
Now, let's get to the fun part: the chords! While different versions and arrangements might use variations, the core chords usually stay the same. Here's a breakdown of the common chords you'll encounter and their fingerings (for guitar):
- G Major: This is a staple chord and often the first you'll learn. Place your second finger on the 6th string, second fret; your first finger on the 5th string, second fret; and your third finger on the 1st string, third fret. Strum all six strings.
- C Major: Another fundamental chord. Place your second finger on the 4th string, second fret; your third finger on the 5th string, third fret; and your first finger on the 2nd string, first fret. Strum from the fifth string down.
- D Major: A bit trickier, but with practice, it becomes second nature. Place your first finger on the 3rd string, second fret; your second finger on the 1st string, second fret; and your third finger on the 2nd string, third fret. Strum all six strings.
- Em (E minor): A classic minor chord. Place your second finger on the 5th string, second fret; and your first finger on the 4th string, second fret. Strum all six strings.
Chord Charts and Tabs
To make it even easier, here are some links to chord charts and tabs: (Please note that providing direct links to external websites goes against my guidelines, but you can easily find these resources by searching online. Just search for "Everytime You Walk Away or Run Away chords and tabs".) Chord charts visually represent the chords, making it easy to see where to place your fingers. Tabs (tablature) use a system of lines and numbers to show you exactly where to place your fingers on the fretboard. These charts will break down the exact positions for each chord throughout the song, along with the strumming patterns. Don't be afraid to use them as a guide and get familiar with how they work. The first few times, use the chord charts to understand the basic shapes, and then try to transition to the tabs as you get more comfortable. Remember, practice is key. The more you play, the easier it will become to switch between chords and read both chord charts and tabs. Soon, you'll be playing this song by ear. You'll understand the structure and the progression of chords.
Delving Deeper: Verse, Chorus, and Bridge Chord Progressions
Alright, let's break down the song section by section and figure out the specific chord progressions you'll need. This is where the real fun begins; this is where we start learning how to play the song. We'll go through the most common chord progressions found in "Everytime You Walk Away or Run Away". Remember, many arrangements exist, but we'll focus on the core structure.
Verse Progression
The verse often sets the mood with a simple, repetitive chord progression. This is usually the easiest part of the song to play, which gives you time to get comfortable. A typical verse progression might look like this:
- G Major
- C Major
- G Major
- D Major
Or it might change slightly, depending on the arrangement, but these chords are usually the foundation. Pay attention to the strumming pattern here. It's often a slow, steady strum, which helps create the emotional feel of the song. The chord progression is meant to be repeated, so keep playing it until you get it down. If you're a beginner, go slow. The most important thing is accuracy, so start slow, and gradually speed up the tempo as you become more confident. Remember, consistency is the key to musical success.
Chorus Progression
The chorus is the heart of the song, where the melody and emotion peak. This is often where you will find a change in the chord progression, and the strumming becomes more pronounced. A typical chorus progression could be:
- G Major
- C Major
- D Major
- G Major
Or it could be any variation on these chords. Notice how the chords change compared to the verse, adding a bit more energy. The strumming pattern will also likely change, perhaps becoming faster or more complex. The chorus provides a release from the verse, giving the song dynamics. The stronger strums and the higher notes add to the overall feeling of the song. Try adding some variation. Some of the best covers do not follow the exact chord patterns. Feel free to experiment. The most important thing is to enjoy the process of learning and playing.
Bridge Breakdown
The bridge offers a contrast, a chance to change the tempo, the melody, and the chords. The chords used can vary widely, but they usually include a minor chord to create a feeling of tension and release. For example, a bridge could include this chord progression:
- Em (E minor)
- C Major
- G Major
- D Major
This adds a darker, more emotional feel, before leading back to the chorus. The bridge often serves as a point of reflection in the song. The best bridges are designed to heighten the emotions. Don't be afraid to experiment with different strumming patterns and fingerpicking during the bridge. Be creative! This will add to your expression and allow you to make the song your own.
Advanced Techniques: Fingerstyle and Acoustic Guitar
Ready to take your playing to the next level? Let's explore some techniques for fingerstyle and acoustic guitar, which can add a beautiful layer to your performance of "Everytime You Walk Away or Run Away". Adding these to your playing will really bring the song to life!
Fingerstyle Guitar Approaches
Fingerstyle involves using your fingers to pluck the strings instead of a pick. This can create a more intimate and delicate sound. For this song, consider these approaches:
- Arpeggios: Play the chords by plucking the individual notes of each chord one at a time. This adds a flowing, melodic feel.
- Alternating Bass: Use your thumb to play the bass notes (the lowest notes of the chords) on the 6th and 5th strings, while your fingers play the higher notes. This gives a rhythmic foundation.
- Combining Techniques: Mix arpeggios with alternating bass. Start by playing the bass note, then arpeggiate the rest of the chords. It will sound beautiful, trust me!
Acoustic Guitar Tips
For acoustic guitar, consider these tips:
- Strumming Patterns: Experiment with different strumming patterns. Try down-down-up-up-down-up or variations. Listen to the original song and try to mimic the strumming.
- Dynamics: Vary the intensity of your strumming. Play softer during the verses and build up to louder strums during the chorus.
- Adding Embellishments: Try adding some hammer-ons, pull-offs, or slides to add interest. These are small techniques to make the song even more amazing.
These advanced techniques will take time to master, but the effort is worth it. They can make the song really stand out.
Song Analysis: Understanding the Music
Beyond just learning the chords, let's dig into the "Everytime You Walk Away or Run Away" song itself. This will help you understand and play the song better.
Lyrics and their Relation to Chords
The lyrics of "Everytime You Walk Away or Run Away" are often introspective and emotional. The chords often mirror these emotions. For example, a minor chord might be used during a moment of sadness, while a major chord is used during a moment of hope. Understanding the emotional content of the lyrics and how they relate to the chords can deepen your connection to the song. As you play, think about the lyrics and try to express the emotions. The emotional connection you feel will be reflected in your playing, so don't be afraid to let it show! Pay attention to the phrasing of the lyrics. The way the singer delivers the lyrics will influence your strumming and how you interpret the chords.
Musicality and Expression
Playing with feeling is just as important as playing the right chords. Don't be afraid to experiment with different ways of playing the same chords to see what suits you. Dynamics (how loud or soft you play), tempo (how fast or slow you play), and articulation (how you play each note) all contribute to your musical expression. Your expression makes the song unique. The emotion you feel is reflected in the playing. Listen to your favorite versions of the song and how the different artists express their feeling. Remember, there's no right or wrong way. It's about making the song your own.
Practice Makes Perfect: Tips for Learning and Playing
Let's wrap up with some tips to help you on your musical journey. "Everytime You Walk Away or Run Away" will be a fun song, and we want to help you make it the best it can be.
Consistent Practice Schedule
- Set Realistic Goals: Start with short practice sessions (15-30 minutes) and gradually increase the duration. Be consistent with your practice. Try to set aside a specific time each day or week to play.
- Break It Down: Don't try to learn the entire song at once. Focus on learning one section (verse, chorus, bridge) at a time. Practice each section slowly and then gradually increase the speed. Take your time, and don't get frustrated! You will succeed! Break the song into small sections and concentrate on each one until you have mastered it.
- Review Regularly: Always review what you've learned. Review the chords you've learned, and go over any complex sections you might be having problems with. This will help you memorize the chords and improve your overall playing. Remember, the more time you put in, the better you will get!
Tuning and Maintenance
- Tune Regularly: Make sure your guitar is always in tune. You can use a digital tuner, a tuning app, or learn to tune by ear. Your chords will only sound right if your guitar is in tune. Remember, it's easier to play when you are in tune.
- Guitar Maintenance: Keep your guitar clean and in good condition. Change your strings regularly. This will improve the sound and playability of your guitar. A well-maintained guitar is a happy guitar! Take good care of your guitar.
Conclusion: Your Journey to Playing "Everytime You Walk Away or Run Away"
And there you have it, guys! A comprehensive guide to learning the chords and playing "Everytime You Walk Away or Run Away". Remember to have fun, be patient, and enjoy the process. Every musician has started exactly where you are! Practice regularly, and don't be afraid to experiment. With time and effort, you'll be strumming those chords like a pro. Keep going, and have fun playing this great song! Music is a great gift, and learning a song is an amazing experience. Happy playing!