Unlocking John Mayer's 'Who Says': Lyrics & Chords Explained

Hey music lovers! Ever found yourself captivated by the smooth melodies and introspective lyrics of John Mayer? If you're anything like me, you've probably spent countless hours listening to his songs, and maybe even tried to learn a few on your guitar. Today, we're diving deep into one of his most beloved tracks: "Who Says." We'll explore the lyrics, the chords, and the overall essence of this fantastic song. Get ready to strum along, guys!

The Heart of 'Who Says': Lyrics Analysis

"Who Says," released on Mayer's 2009 album Battle Studies, is a song that resonates with many. At its core, it's about breaking free from the pressures of societal expectations and embracing your authentic self. The lyrics paint a picture of someone who's tired of the noise and judgment of the outside world, and is choosing to live life on their own terms. The genius of Mayer lies in his ability to craft relatable stories with simple yet profound language. He speaks directly to the listener, creating an intimate connection that's hard to resist.

Let's break down some of the key lyrical moments. The opening lines, "Who says I can't get stoned? Who says I can't get drunk? Who says I can't do what I wanna do?" immediately set the tone. Mayer challenges the conventional rules and limitations that people often impose on themselves. He's not necessarily advocating for reckless behavior, but rather questioning the authority that dictates how we should live. It's about freedom of choice, and the right to make your own decisions without needing anyone's permission. The song goes on to explore themes of self-doubt, vulnerability, and the search for inner peace. Lines like "Who says I can't be free?" and "I wanna be in love, and I wanna be alive" express a longing for genuine experience and a desire to live life to the fullest. The lyrics are a reminder that it's okay to make mistakes, to be imperfect, and to prioritize your own well-being. The brilliance of "Who Says" lies in its universal appeal. It speaks to anyone who has ever felt judged, misunderstood, or constrained by the expectations of others. It's a call to embrace individuality, to let go of the need for external validation, and to simply be yourself. The lyrics are simple yet poignant, and their message is incredibly powerful. The song's enduring popularity is a testament to its ability to connect with listeners on a deeply emotional level, making it a timeless anthem for self-acceptance.

Deeper Dive into the Lyrics

Let's take a closer look at some specific sections to understand the nuances of Mayer's storytelling. The pre-chorus, for example, is where the song's emotional intensity builds: "I'm gonna run all night, I'm gonna run all day, I'm gonna run until I get away." This conveys a sense of urgency, a desperate need to escape from the constraints that are holding him back. It's a moment of raw emotion, where the singer's vulnerability is laid bare. The chorus itself is a declaration of independence, a defiant statement against the voices of doubt and judgment: "Who says I can't get stoned?" As mentioned before, the questions are rhetorical, challenging the listener to question the source of these limitations. Mayer isn't asking for permission; he's asserting his right to make his own choices. The second verse delves into themes of self-doubt and the struggle to overcome it: "I'm scared of the darkness, I'm scared of the light, I'm scared of the day, I'm scared of the night." This stark admission of fear makes the song even more relatable. It's a reminder that everyone battles with their inner demons. The bridge, with its repetition of the phrase "No one says I can't," reinforces the theme of self-determination. It's a rallying cry, an affirmation of the singer's newfound resolve to live life on his own terms. Throughout the song, Mayer uses simple, direct language. He doesn't rely on complex metaphors or elaborate imagery. Instead, he speaks from the heart, which makes the lyrics all the more impactful. The simplicity of the language allows the listener to connect with the song on a personal level. The raw emotion that is expressed is one that resonates deeply within the soul, making it a song that can be listened to time and time again.

Chord Progression: The Musical Foundation of 'Who Says'

Alright, let's get into the chords! "Who Says" is a relatively simple song to play on the guitar, which is part of its appeal. The song primarily revolves around a few basic chords, making it accessible for beginner and intermediate guitarists alike. The main chord progression is easy to follow, allowing you to focus on the emotional delivery and the lyrics. The simplicity of the chord structure allows Mayer's vocals and lyrical content to shine. The song's relaxed vibe is perfectly suited for acoustic guitar, creating a comforting and inviting atmosphere. Even if you're new to the guitar, you should be able to pick up the chords and start playing along. The chords are relatively easy to play, so you can focus on singing and expressing yourself. In short, it's a song that's easy to learn, easy to play, and a lot of fun to sing. Let's delve into the chords and then you can start learning them yourself!

The main chord progression for "Who Says" is typically: G - D - Em - C. This progression repeats throughout the verses, chorus, and bridge, providing the song's foundation. Here's a quick breakdown:

• G Major (G): This is the root chord, providing a sense of stability and grounding.
• D Major (D): The move to D adds a sense of brightness and anticipation.
• E Minor (Em): The Em chord adds a touch of melancholy and introspection.
• C Major (C): The C chord provides a resolution and a feeling of completion, leading back to the G.

This simple, yet effective progression creates a warm and inviting feel. The progression is versatile and can be adapted to other genres and musical styles. You can also experiment with different strumming patterns and fingerpicking techniques to add your own personal touch to the song. The simplicity of the chords allows the focus to be on expressing emotions and connecting with the message of the song.

Breakdown of the Chord Shapes

For those new to guitar, let's look at the basic chord shapes. If you are a beginner, it might be beneficial to find some chord diagrams online to help you. It's all about practice, and consistency. You'll be playing along with John Mayer in no time. If you're using a standard tuning (EADGBe), the chord shapes are as follows:

• G Major: 320003 (3rd fret on the low E string, 2nd fret on the A string, open D string, open G string, open B string, and 3rd fret on the high E string)
• D Major: xx0232 (Open D string, open G string, 2nd fret on the B string, 3rd fret on the high E string)
• E Minor: 022000 (Open E string, 2nd fret on the A string, 2nd fret on the D string, open G string, open B string, and open high E string)
• C Major: x32010 (3rd fret on the A string, 2nd fret on the D string, open G string, 1st fret on the B string, and open high E string)

These are the basic shapes, but you can also use alternate fingerings and voicings to add variety to your playing. Make sure to practice the chord changes smoothly and consistently. Start slowly and gradually increase the tempo as you become more comfortable. Remember to keep your fingers relaxed and avoid squeezing the strings too hard. The goal is to produce clear, ringing notes. When you are comfortable with these chords, you can explore different strumming patterns and fingerpicking techniques to enhance your playing and personalize your performance. There are a variety of tutorials available online that can help you with chord diagrams, and strumming patterns to fit the song's rhythm.

Strumming and Rhythm: Bringing the Song to Life

Now that you know the chords and the lyrics, let's talk about strumming patterns and rhythm. The way you strum the chords is what gives "Who Says" its signature laid-back feel. The strumming pattern is relatively simple and follows the rhythm of the song. There are many variations, but the most basic strumming pattern is a down-down-up-up-down-up pattern, for each chord. This pattern allows for a steady flow and complements the acoustic feel of the song. You can adjust the tempo and add variations to add your own personal touch. Experiment with the strumming pattern and see what feels most natural to you. Strumming patterns are the foundation of many songs. They are what gives the music the drive and rhythm to capture the listener. Strumming also is part of the feeling behind the music. It gives the song its texture and soul.

To get the authentic sound, focus on a relaxed strumming style. Avoid strumming too hard or too fast. Instead, aim for a gentle, consistent rhythm that allows the lyrics and melody to shine. Pay attention to the song's timing and try to match your strumming to the beat. Start by listening to the song and feeling the rhythm. Then, experiment with different strumming patterns until you find one that works for you. Remember, the goal is to create a groove that complements the song's message. Don't be afraid to experiment with different strumming patterns and techniques to find what best suits your style and the mood of the song. The rhythmic interplay between the guitar and vocals is what makes the song so engaging.

Refining Your Strumming Technique

Here are some tips to refine your strumming technique and bring the song to life:

• Keep a steady tempo: Use a metronome to practice and develop a consistent rhythm.
• Focus on the downbeats: Emphasize the downstrokes to anchor the rhythm.
• Use a pick or your fingers: Experiment with both to find which feels most comfortable.
• Vary the dynamics: Strum softer or louder to match the song's emotional intensity.
• Listen carefully: Pay attention to how John Mayer strums the song and try to emulate his style.

Practice these techniques to enhance your strumming skills and elevate your performance. By mastering these elements, you'll be well on your way to playing a great cover of "Who Says." Remember, the key is to have fun and enjoy the process of learning and performing the song. Don't be afraid to add your own personal touch. The best part of music is that it's all your own!

Conclusion: Your Journey with 'Who Says'

So there you have it, guys! We've taken a deep dive into the lyrics, chords, and strumming patterns of John Mayer's "Who Says." Now it's your turn to pick up your guitar and start playing! Remember that music is all about personal expression. Don't be afraid to experiment with the chords, the strumming, and the vocals to create your own unique version of the song. Remember to enjoy the process of learning and playing music. It can be a very rewarding experience. It's a great song to play around the campfire, or just jam out to on your own. Keep practicing, and most importantly, have fun! Happy playing!