Hey music lovers! Today, we're diving into the melodic world of Hanson's hit song, "I Will Come to You." Whether you're a seasoned guitarist or just starting, this tutorial will guide you through the chords and strumming patterns to help you play this classic tune. So grab your guitar, and let's get started!

Introduction to "I Will Come to You"

"I Will Come to You" is a power ballad by the American pop rock band Hanson, released in 1997 as part of their album "Middle of Nowhere." The song became a massive hit, showcasing the band's harmonious vocals and catchy melodies. Its enduring popularity makes it a great addition to any guitarist's repertoire. This tutorial breaks down the chords, strumming patterns, and song structure, making it accessible for guitarists of various skill levels. Understanding the background of the song can add depth to your playing, allowing you to connect with the emotion and intention behind the music. As you learn, focus not only on the technical aspects but also on capturing the feeling and spirit of the song. By the end of this guide, you'll be well-equipped to play "I Will Come to You" with confidence and style. The song's appeal lies in its simple yet powerful message of support and connection, making it a favorite for dedications and heartfelt performances. So, get ready to immerse yourself in the music and bring this classic to life!

Chords Needed

Before we start, let's take a look at the essential chords you'll need to play "I Will Come to You." These chords are relatively simple, making the song accessible for beginner guitarists. Here’s a breakdown:

• G Major (G): 320003
• D Major (D): XX0232
• Em (E minor): 022000
• C Major (C): X32010

These four chords form the backbone of the entire song. Mastering these chords will not only allow you to play "I Will Come to You" but also provide a foundation for learning many other songs. Practice transitioning between these chords smoothly to improve your overall guitar playing. For beginners, start by playing each chord slowly and focusing on clean finger placement. As you become more comfortable, gradually increase your speed. Remember, consistent practice is key to mastering these chords and playing the song effortlessly. There are numerous online resources and apps that can help you visualize and practice these chords, so don't hesitate to use them. With a little dedication, you'll have these chords down in no time!

Strumming Pattern

The strumming pattern for "I Will Come to You" is fairly straightforward, making it easy to follow. A basic pattern that works well throughout the song is:

Down, Down, Up, Down, Up

This pattern provides a rhythmic foundation that complements the melodic structure of the song. Experiment with variations to add your own personal touch. For example, you can try adding a slight emphasis on the downstrokes or incorporating some palm muting for a more subdued sound. Listening closely to the original recording will also give you a better sense of the song's rhythm and feel. Remember, the strumming pattern is not set in stone; feel free to adapt it to suit your style and preferences. The most important thing is to maintain a consistent rhythm and keep the music flowing. Practice the strumming pattern separately before combining it with the chords to ensure a smooth and seamless performance. With a little experimentation, you'll find the perfect strumming pattern that brings "I Will Come to You" to life!

Song Structure

Understanding the song structure of "I Will Come to You" will help you navigate the chords and strumming patterns more effectively. The song generally follows this structure:

1. Verse 1: G, D, Em, C
2. Chorus: G, D, Em, C
3. Verse 2: G, D, Em, C
4. Chorus: G, D, Em, C
5. Bridge: Em, C, G, D
6. Chorus: G, D, Em, C
7. Outro: G, D, Em, C (fade out)

This structure is repetitive and easy to remember, making it perfect for beginner guitarists. Each section of the song flows seamlessly into the next, creating a cohesive and engaging listening experience. Pay attention to the transitions between verses, choruses, and the bridge to maintain a smooth performance. The bridge provides a change of pace and adds emotional depth to the song before returning to the familiar chorus. As you play through the song, try to internalize the structure and anticipate the chord changes. This will not only improve your playing but also help you connect with the music on a deeper level. With a clear understanding of the song structure, you'll be able to play "I Will Come to You" with confidence and precision.

Step-by-Step Tutorial

Now, let's break down the song into manageable steps. Follow these instructions to learn "I Will Come to You" on guitar:

Step 1: Learn the Chords

Make sure you are comfortable with the G, D, Em, and C chords. Practice transitioning between them smoothly. Use online resources or chord diagrams to ensure you are fretting the chords correctly. Start slowly and gradually increase your speed as you become more confident. Consistent practice is key to mastering these chords. Try playing simple chord progressions using these chords to build muscle memory and improve your finger dexterity. There are many exercises available online that can help you with chord transitions. Focus on accuracy and clean finger placement to avoid buzzing or muted notes. With a solid foundation in these chords, you'll be well-prepared to tackle the rest of the song.

Step 2: Practice the Strumming Pattern

Practice the basic strumming pattern (Down, Down, Up, Down, Up) until it feels natural. Focus on maintaining a consistent rhythm. Use a metronome to help you keep time and improve your accuracy. Experiment with variations of the strumming pattern to add your own personal touch. Try adding a slight emphasis on the downstrokes or incorporating some palm muting for a more subdued sound. Listening closely to the original recording will also give you a better sense of the song's rhythm and feel. Remember, the strumming pattern is not set in stone; feel free to adapt it to suit your style and preferences. The most important thing is to maintain a consistent rhythm and keep the music flowing. Practice the strumming pattern separately before combining it with the chords to ensure a smooth and seamless performance.

Step 3: Play the Verse

The verse follows the chord progression G, D, Em, C. Play each chord for four beats, using the strumming pattern you practiced. Focus on smooth transitions between the chords. Listen to the original recording to get a feel for the timing and dynamics. Practice the verse repeatedly until you can play it effortlessly. Try singing along as you play to improve your coordination and musicality. Pay attention to the nuances of the song and try to capture the emotion in your playing. With a little practice, you'll be able to play the verse with confidence and style.

Step 4: Play the Chorus

The chorus uses the same chord progression as the verse: G, D, Em, C. Play each chord for four beats, using the strumming pattern. Focus on projecting your voice and adding energy to your playing. The chorus is the most memorable part of the song, so make sure you nail it. Practice the chorus repeatedly until you can play it perfectly. Try adding some vocal harmonies to enhance the sound. Pay attention to the dynamics of the song and try to build to a crescendo in the chorus. With a little practice, you'll be able to play the chorus with power and precision.

Step 5: Play the Bridge

The bridge features a slightly different chord progression: Em, C, G, D. This section provides a contrast to the verse and chorus, adding depth to the song. Practice the bridge slowly and carefully, paying attention to the chord changes. Listen to the original recording to get a feel for the timing and dynamics. Try adding some subtle variations to the strumming pattern to enhance the sound. Pay attention to the emotion of the song and try to convey it in your playing. With a little practice, you'll be able to play the bridge with confidence and style.

Step 6: Put It All Together

Now that you've learned all the individual sections, it's time to put them together. Start slowly and gradually increase your speed as you become more comfortable. Pay attention to the transitions between sections and try to make them as smooth as possible. Listen to the original recording to get a feel for the overall flow of the song. Practice the entire song repeatedly until you can play it effortlessly. Try performing the song for friends or family to get feedback and improve your performance. With a little dedication, you'll be able to play "I Will Come to You" from start to finish with confidence and style.

Tips for Beginners

If you're new to playing guitar, here are some helpful tips to make the learning process easier:

• Start Slow: Don't rush. Focus on accuracy over speed.
• Practice Regularly: Even 15-20 minutes a day can make a big difference.
• Use a Metronome: This will help you develop a sense of timing.
• Record Yourself: Listening back can help you identify areas for improvement.
• Be Patient: Learning guitar takes time and effort. Don't get discouraged!

Conclusion

Congratulations! You've now learned how to play "I Will Come to You" by Hanson on guitar. With consistent practice and dedication, you'll be able to play this classic song with confidence and style. Keep practicing, and most importantly, have fun! Now go impress your friends and family with your newfound skills. Happy playing!