How to Play “Friday on My Mind”
“Friday on My Mind” is a classic rock song by the Easybeats, released in 1966. This song has been a staple of many music playlists and has been covered by numerous artists over the years. If you’re looking to play “Friday on My Mind” on your own, here’s a guide to help you get started.
Understanding the Song
Before you start playing “Friday on My Mind,” it’s essential to understand the song’s structure and key elements. The song is in the key of E major and follows a typical rock structure with a verse-chorus pattern. The tempo is around 120 beats per minute, and the song has a catchy melody that’s easy to remember.
Choosing the Right Instruments
To play “Friday on My Mind,” you’ll need a few essential instruments. The most common instruments used in the song are the electric guitar, bass, drums, and vocals. If you’re just starting out, you can use an electric guitar with distortion and a bass to achieve the classic rock sound.
Electric Guitar
The electric guitar is the primary instrument in “Friday on My Mind.” To play the iconic riff, you’ll need to use a combination of open strings and fretted notes. Start by tuning your guitar to E major and then play the following notes:
– E minor (fret 1 on the low E string)
– B (fret 3 on the B string)
– E (open E string)
– G (fret 2 on the high E string)
– E (open E string)
Play these notes in a loop to create the signature riff.
Bass
The bass plays a simple yet essential role in “Friday on My Mind.” To play the bass line, you’ll need to follow the rhythm of the guitar riff. Here’s a basic bass line you can use:
– E (open E string)
– A (fret 1 on the A string)
– E (open E string)
– A (fret 1 on the A string)
Play these notes in a loop, keeping the rhythm in sync with the guitar.
Drums
The drums provide the rhythm and drive behind “Friday on My Mind.” A typical drum pattern for the song includes a simple bass drum beat and a hi-hat pattern. Here’s a basic drum pattern you can use:
– Bass drum on beats 1, 3, and 5
– Hi-hat open on beats 2 and 4
Play these beats in a loop, keeping the rhythm consistent with the rest of the band.
Vocals
The vocals in “Friday on My Mind” are straightforward and easy to sing. The song features a mix of clean and gritty vocals, so feel free to experiment with your tone. Start by singing the first verse and then the chorus, repeating the process until you’re comfortable with the song’s structure.
Practice and Enjoy
Now that you have the basic instruments and patterns down, it’s time to practice. Play along with the song, focusing on keeping the rhythm and timing in sync. Don’t be afraid to make mistakes; practice makes perfect. Once you’re confident in your performance, invite friends over for a mini-concert and enjoy playing “Friday on My Mind” with your own band.
