How to Play “Holiday” on Guitar Easy
Are you looking to add a festive tune to your guitar repertoire? “Holiday” by Mariah Carey is a classic song that can be easily played on the guitar. Whether you’re a beginner or an intermediate player, this guide will help you master the basics of playing “Holiday” on the guitar in no time.
Understanding the Chords
The first step in learning “Holiday” on the guitar is to familiarize yourself with the chords. The song is primarily based on three chords: E minor, C major, and G major. These chords are simple to play and will form the foundation of the song.
Playing the Chords
To play the E minor chord, place your first finger on the second fret of the low E string, your second finger on the third fret of the A string, and your third finger on the fifth fret of the D string. For the C major chord, place your first finger on the third fret of the low E string, your second finger on the third fret of the A string, and your third finger on the fifth fret of the D string. Finally, to play the G major chord, place your first finger on the second fret of the low E string, your second finger on the third fret of the A string, and your third finger on the fifth fret of the D string.
Strumming Pattern
Once you’ve mastered the chords, it’s time to focus on the strumming pattern. “Holiday” follows a simple down-up-down-up strumming pattern. To achieve this, strum down on the first beat of each measure, then up on the second beat, and so on. This pattern will give the song a smooth and festive feel.
Practice the Riff
One of the highlights of “Holiday” is the catchy riff that plays throughout the song. To play this riff, use a simple alternating bass pattern. Start by playing the E minor chord, then move to the C major chord, and finally to the G major chord. This pattern should be repeated throughout the song.
Adding the Melody
Once you’ve got the chords and strumming pattern down, it’s time to add the melody. “Holiday” features a simple melody that can be played by picking the strings individually. Listen to the song and try to identify the notes that make up the melody. Practice playing these notes while maintaining the rhythm of the song.
Final Tips
– Take your time to practice each chord and strumming pattern before attempting to play the entire song.
– Record yourself while practicing to identify areas that need improvement.
– Don’t be afraid to ask for help from a guitar teacher or online tutorials if you’re struggling with a particular part of the song.
By following these simple steps, you’ll be well on your way to playing “Holiday” on the guitar with ease. Happy holidays, and enjoy your newfound guitar skills!
