Hey music lovers, are you ready to dive into the iconic song "I Want to Break Free"? If you're anything like me, you've probably jammed to this track by Dewa 19 a million times. But have you ever wanted to actually play it? Well, you're in luck! This guide is your ultimate companion to understanding the chords, strumming patterns, and overall feel of this incredible song. We'll break down everything you need to know, from the basic chords to some cool tips and tricks to make your playing sound amazing. So grab your guitar, and let's get started!

Understanding the Basics: Dewa 19's "I Want to Break Free"

First things first, let's talk about the song itself. "I Want to Break Free," a cover by Dewa 19, is a powerful rock ballad originally by Queen. Dewa 19's version, with its distinctive Indonesian flavor, resonated deeply with fans, making it one of their most beloved covers. The song is known for its anthemic chorus, emotional depth, and catchy melody, making it a blast to play. Before you start learning the chords, it's essential to familiarize yourself with the song's structure. Generally, most songs have an introduction, verse, chorus, bridge and outro structure. Understanding the song's structure will significantly help you navigate the chord progressions and understand how the different sections fit together. Listening to the song repeatedly is a great way to grasp this structure. Pay attention to how the song builds, the dynamics of the music, and the transitions between sections. This will make learning the chords and playing along much easier. Remember, the goal isn't just to play the chords; it's to capture the song's essence. This comes from understanding the song's message, its emotional impact, and how the music conveys those feelings.

The Key and Tempo

The original song is played in the key of A major, however Dewa 19's cover version will often have a slightly different tuning or key to suit the vocalist. To make it easier for beginner guitarists, we'll try and make it sound as simple as possible. Knowing the key of the song helps you anticipate the chords, making learning the progression easier. Tempo, or the speed of the song, is also crucial. The original version has a tempo of around 110 beats per minute (BPM), which, if you're a beginner, might be a little fast. Feel free to adjust the tempo to suit your playing speed. You can use a metronome or a music app to help you practice at a steady pace. Always try to play in time with the music; this makes it much more enjoyable and improves your timing.

Essential Chords for "I Want to Break Free"

Alright, let's get down to the good stuff: the chords! Here are the core chords you'll need to play Dewa 19's rendition of "I Want to Break Free." I will provide the standard chord diagrams. You can find them online with a quick search if you aren't familiar with them. The basic chords are: A Major, D Major, E Major and G Major.

• A Major (A): This is a fundamental chord. Place your index finger on the second fret of the D string, your middle finger on the second fret of the G string, and your ring finger on the second fret of the B string. Strum all strings except the low E string.
• D Major (D): Place your index finger on the second fret of the G string, your middle finger on the second fret of the E string, and your ring finger on the third fret of the B string. Strum all strings except the low E string.
• E Major (E): Place your index finger on the first fret of the G string, your middle finger on the second fret of the A string, and your ring finger on the second fret of the D string. Strum all strings.
• G Major (G): Place your index finger on the second fret of the A string, your middle finger on the third fret of the E string, and your ring finger on the third fret of the high E string. Strum all strings.

These chords form the foundation of most of the song's sections. As you practice, try to switch smoothly between these chords. This is a crucial skill for playing the song fluently. Pay attention to how the chords change and get a feel for the rhythm of the song.

Chord Progression Breakdown

The core of the song's verses and chorus typically follows a simple but effective chord progression. A typical progression might look like this:

• Verse: A - D - E
• Chorus: A - D - G - E

Of course, there might be slight variations, but this is the general structure. This chord progression is very common in rock and pop music, so mastering it will help you learn many other songs. Practice transitioning smoothly between these chords, focusing on accuracy and timing. Pay close attention to the strumming pattern and how it fits with the vocals and the drum beat.

Mastering the Strumming Pattern

Strumming patterns are the heart of any song. Let's explore the typical strumming pattern used in "I Want to Break Free." This pattern helps you maintain the song's rhythm.

Basic Strumming Pattern

For a basic pattern, you can use a simple down-down-up-up-down-up pattern (D-D-U-U-D-U). This pattern fits well with the song's rhythm. You can experiment with different strumming patterns to add your style. Remember to count along while you strum to maintain a steady tempo. The strumming pattern should complement the chords, creating a rhythm that makes the song sound cohesive. Try to match your strumming to the beat of the drums and the rhythm of the vocals.

Advanced Strumming Techniques

Once you feel comfortable with the basic strumming pattern, you can add more dynamics. Muting the strings (lightly touching the strings with your fretting hand to silence them) can create a percussive effect. This is a great way to add interest and complexity to your playing. Experiment with different strumming speeds and rhythms. This gives your performance more expression. Listen closely to the original song to get ideas and insights into how the guitar parts are played.

Putting It All Together: Playing the Song

Now, let's put it all together! Here's how to play "I Want to Break Free" using the chords and strumming patterns we've covered. I'll provide a simplified version, as the original version may have some complexities. Remember, it's okay to start slowly and gradually increase your speed.

Verse Structure

Typically, the verse will follow a pattern of A - D - E. Strum each chord for about four beats, using the strumming pattern we discussed earlier. Remember to keep the rhythm steady and match the tempo of the song. Listen carefully to the original recording to match the phrasing and timing of the guitar part. The key is to make it sound effortless and natural. Start slow, focus on accuracy, and then gradually increase your speed.

Chorus Structure

The chorus is the heart of the song. It typically uses the chord progression A - D - G - E. Strum each chord for about four beats, matching the strumming pattern. This is where you can let loose and put more energy into your playing. The chorus is the most iconic part of the song, so enjoy it. Make sure you can switch between the chords fluidly. The goal is to build up the intensity and energy of the song.

Bridge and Outro

Depending on the specific arrangement, the bridge might introduce a different chord progression or a solo. The outro will typically feature a repetition of the chorus or a fade-out. Pay attention to the original song to understand how this section flows. Be ready to adjust your playing to match the song's mood and dynamics. The bridge is often a good place to add a bit of your style. Use different strumming patterns or introduce some arpeggios to give it more character.

Tips and Tricks for Guitar Beginners

For all you guitar newbies out there, here are some helpful tips to make your playing journey smoother. These tips will help you improve and enjoy the process.

Practice Regularly

Consistency is key. Even 15-30 minutes of practice daily can make a big difference. Regular practice builds muscle memory. This makes chord changes smoother and improves your overall technique. Practice scales and exercises to improve your finger dexterity and coordination. The more you practice, the easier it will become. Don't worry if you don't see immediate results. Just stick with it, and you'll get there.

Focus on Smooth Transitions

One of the most common challenges is switching between chords. Take it slow at first. Practice moving your fingers from one chord shape to another until the changes become natural. Practice changing between the chords. Start slowly and then gradually increase the speed.

Listen to the Original Song

Always listen to the original recording. Pay close attention to the guitar parts, the strumming patterns, and the overall feel of the song. This will help you understand the music. Listening to the song repeatedly will help you internalize the structure and rhythms. Pay attention to the vocals and how the guitar part complements them.

Enhancing Your Playing: Advanced Techniques

Ready to level up your playing? Here are some advanced techniques that you can incorporate into your performance. These will take your playing to the next level.

Adding Dynamics

Experiment with varying the volume of your playing. This will add more emotion and depth to your performance. Use techniques like palm muting to add percussive elements. Pay attention to the dynamics in the original song. This will give you ideas on how to use dynamics effectively.

Incorporating Fingerpicking

Try fingerpicking on the arpeggiated chords. This will add another layer of complexity to the song. Start by learning simple fingerpicking patterns. This will make your playing more interesting and versatile. There are tons of online resources for learning fingerpicking patterns. Experiment with different patterns to find one you like.

Learning the Solo

If you want a real challenge, try learning the guitar solo. The solo is one of the most exciting parts of the song. You can find tabs and tutorials online to help you learn the solo. This is a great way to improve your lead guitar skills. Break the solo down into smaller parts and practice it slowly.

Conclusion: Your Journey to Playing "I Want to Break Free"

So there you have it, folks! With this guide, you're well on your way to playing Dewa 19's version of "I Want to Break Free." Remember, the most important thing is to have fun and enjoy the process. Don't get discouraged if it doesn't sound perfect at first. Keep practicing, and you'll improve. Practice with friends, record yourself, and most importantly, enjoy the music! You'll be playing this iconic song in no time. Keep experimenting with different techniques, and don't be afraid to add your unique style. Happy playing, and rock on!