How to Play “Beautiful People” on Guitar
Are you a fan of the popular song “Beautiful People” by Ed Sheeran? Do you want to learn how to play this catchy tune on the guitar? Look no further! In this article, we will guide you through the essential steps and techniques to master the guitar version of “Beautiful People.”
Understanding the Song
Before diving into the guitar tabs and chords, it’s important to have a basic understanding of the song. “Beautiful People” is a heartfelt ballad that emphasizes the importance of self-acceptance and embracing one’s unique qualities. The song features a simple yet memorable melody and a heartfelt message that resonates with many listeners.
Equipment and Tuning
To get started, make sure you have the following equipment:
– An acoustic guitar
– A guitar tuner
– A pick
Before playing, it’s crucial to tune your guitar to the key of A major. The standard tuning for most acoustic guitars is EADGBE, but for “Beautiful People,” we’ll be using the key of A major.
Chords and Strumming Pattern
The song is primarily based on a few simple chords, which we’ll cover in this section. Here’s a breakdown of the chords and their corresponding fingerings:
– A major: X02220
– E minor: 022100
– D major: XX2122
– G major: 320033
– C major: X32010
To play the song, you’ll need to strum these chords in a specific pattern. The strumming pattern for “Beautiful People” is typically a downstroke followed by an upstroke, which can be represented as “DUDUDU.”
Practice the Chords
Start by practicing each chord individually, focusing on getting a clean and clear sound. Once you’re comfortable with the individual chords, begin to combine them in the strumming pattern mentioned earlier. Remember to keep a steady rhythm and maintain a consistent volume throughout the song.
Introducing the Melody
The melody of “Beautiful People” is played on the higher strings of the guitar. To play the melody, you’ll need to use fingerpicking or a combination of fingerpicking and strumming. Here’s a simplified version of the melody:
– A major: 02220
– E minor: 02200
– D major: 02220
– G major: 32000
– C major: 02220
Practice the melody by alternating between the strumming pattern and fingerpicking. Once you’re comfortable with the melody, try to play it along with the chords.
Putting It All Together
Now that you’ve mastered the chords, strumming pattern, and melody, it’s time to put it all together. Start by playing the chords and strumming pattern, then add the melody on top. Pay attention to the timing and make sure the melody flows smoothly with the chords.
Improving Your Skills
To further improve your skills while playing “Beautiful People” on guitar, consider the following tips:
– Practice regularly to build muscle memory and improve your technique.
– Experiment with different strumming patterns and fingerpicking techniques to add variety to your playing.
– Record yourself and listen back to identify areas for improvement.
– Seek feedback from friends or fellow guitarists to gain new perspectives on your playing.
By following these steps and practicing consistently, you’ll be well on your way to mastering the guitar version of “Beautiful People.” Enjoy the journey and happy playing!
