Hey guys! Ever heard that catchy tune "What Cha Gonna Do For Me" and thought, "I gotta learn to play that!"? Well, you're in the right place. This guide breaks down the chords, offering insights and tips to master this classic. Let's dive in and get those fingers moving!

Introduction to "What Cha Gonna Do For Me"

"What Cha Gonna Do For Me" is a song originally performed by the incredible Chaka Khan. Released in 1981, it quickly became a massive hit, celebrated for its infectious groove, powerful vocals, and sophisticated jazz-funk arrangement. The song showcases Chaka Khan's unique ability to blend different genres, creating a sound that’s both danceable and musically rich. Its enduring popularity is a testament to its timeless appeal and the sheer talent of everyone involved in its creation.

The song is characterized by a blend of funk, jazz, and R&B elements. The harmonic structure is both complex and catchy, making it a favorite among musicians. Understanding the chord progressions and their nuances is key to capturing the true essence of the song. Whether you're a seasoned guitarist or a beginner, learning the chords to "What Cha Gonna Do For Me" is a rewarding experience that will enhance your musical skills and appreciation.

Moreover, the song's impact extends beyond just its musical composition. It has been sampled, covered, and referenced in numerous other works, solidifying its place in popular culture. Artists from various genres have paid homage to the song, further demonstrating its wide-reaching influence. By learning this song, you're not just mastering a set of chords; you're connecting with a piece of music history that continues to inspire and resonate with audiences worldwide.

Decoding the Chords

Alright, let's get into the nitty-gritty of the chord progression. "What Cha Gonna Do For Me" isn't your average three-chord wonder; it's got some jazzy flavors that make it super interesting. The basic progression revolves around a few key chords, but the variations and inversions are what give it that signature sound. You'll typically find chords like Am7, D7, Gmaj7, and Cmaj7 in the mix. These chords create a smooth, sophisticated harmony that underpins Chaka Khan's vocal performance.

Now, don't be intimidated by the fancy names! These are just variations of your basic chords with added notes that give them a richer sound. For example, an Am7 (A minor 7) is simply an Am chord with an added 7th note. Similarly, Gmaj7 (G major 7) is a G major chord with an added major 7th. Understanding these additions is crucial for capturing the unique sound of the song. Practice transitioning between these chords smoothly to get a feel for the progression.

To really nail the sound, pay attention to the voicings used in the original recording. Voicings refer to the specific arrangement of notes within a chord. Different voicings can create drastically different sounds, even when the underlying chord remains the same. Experiment with different inversions and fingerings to find the voicings that sound closest to the original. This attention to detail will elevate your playing and help you capture the true essence of the song.

Essential Chord Shapes and Progressions

Let's break down some of the essential chord shapes and progressions you'll need to play "What Cha Gonna Do For Me." We'll start with the basic shapes and then look at how they fit together in the song's structure. Remember, practice makes perfect, so don't get discouraged if it takes a little while to get the hang of it.

Am7 (A Minor 7)

• Standard Shape: 5x555x
• Description: This is a common and versatile chord. Place your middle finger on the 2nd fret of the A string. Strum all strings except the low E string.

D7 (D Dominant 7)

• Standard Shape: xx0212
• Description: Place your index finger on the 1st fret of the B string, your middle finger on the 2nd fret of the G string, and your ring finger on the 2nd fret of the high E string. Strum all strings except the low E and A strings.

Gmaj7 (G Major 7)

• Standard Shape: 3x443x
• Description: Place your middle finger on the 2nd fret of the A string, your ring finger on the 3rd fret of the E string, and your pinky finger on the 4th fret of the B string. Strum all strings.

Cmaj7 (C Major 7)

• Standard Shape: x32000
• Description: Place your middle finger on the 2nd fret of the D string, and your ring finger on the 3rd fret of the A string. Strum all strings except the low E string.

Common Progression

A typical progression you'll encounter is Am7 - D7 - Gmaj7 - Cmaj7. Practice transitioning smoothly between these chords. This progression forms the backbone of many sections of the song.

Tips for Mastering the Song

Okay, so you've got the chords down. Now, how do you make it sound like the real deal? Here are some tips to help you master "What Cha Gonna Do For Me."

• Listen Actively: Sounds obvious, right? But really listen to the song. Pay attention to the nuances, the timing, and how the chords flow together. The more you internalize the music, the better you'll play it.
• Focus on Timing: The song has a distinct groove, so getting the timing right is crucial. Use a metronome or drum track to practice playing in time. Pay attention to the syncopation and subtle rhythmic variations.
• Experiment with Voicings: As mentioned earlier, voicings can make a big difference. Try different inversions and fingerings to find the ones that sound best to your ear. Don't be afraid to experiment and find your own unique voice.
• Add Some Funk: This song is all about funk, so don't be afraid to add some funky embellishments. Try adding ghost notes, percussive strums, or subtle variations to the rhythm. These little touches can bring the song to life.
• Practice with the Original Recording: Play along with the original recording to get a feel for how your playing fits in the context of the song. This will help you identify areas where you can improve and give you a better understanding of the overall arrangement.

Advanced Techniques and Variations

Ready to take your playing to the next level? Here are some advanced techniques and variations you can use to spice up your rendition of "What Cha Gonna Do For Me."

Chord Substitutions

Experiment with substituting chords to create new and interesting harmonies. For example, you could try replacing the D7 chord with a Bm7b5 (B minor 7 flat 5) to add a touch of dissonance. Or, you could replace the Gmaj7 with an Em7 to create a more melancholic feel. Chord substitutions can add depth and complexity to your playing.

Walking Bass Lines

Create a walking bass line to add movement and interest to the song. A walking bass line involves playing a series of notes that connect the chords together, creating a sense of forward motion. This technique is commonly used in jazz and funk music, and it can add a lot of energy to your playing.

Improvisation

Once you're comfortable with the basic chord progression, try improvising over it. Use the pentatonic scale or the blues scale to create your own solos and fills. Improvisation is a great way to express your creativity and develop your musical skills.

Chord Melodies

Create a chord melody by combining the melody of the song with the underlying chords. This involves playing the melody notes on the higher strings while simultaneously playing the chord voicings on the lower strings. Chord melodies can be challenging to play, but they sound incredibly impressive.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

Even seasoned musicians can stumble when learning a new song. Here are some common mistakes to avoid when playing "What Cha Gonna Do For Me."

• Rushing the Tempo: It's tempting to speed up when you're excited, but resist the urge! Keep a steady tempo to maintain the groove of the song. Use a metronome to help you stay in time.
• Ignoring Dynamics: Dynamics are the variations in volume that add expression to your playing. Pay attention to the dynamics in the original recording and try to emulate them in your own playing. Vary your volume to create a more dynamic and engaging performance.
• Using Incorrect Fingerings: Using incorrect fingerings can make it difficult to transition smoothly between chords. Make sure you're using the correct fingerings for each chord and practice transitioning between them slowly and deliberately.
• Not Listening to the Original: This is perhaps the biggest mistake of all. If you're not listening to the original recording, you're missing out on a wealth of information about the song's nuances and subtleties. Listen actively and pay attention to the details.

Conclusion

So there you have it! Playing "What Cha Gonna Do For Me" might seem daunting at first, but with a little practice and patience, you'll be grooving along in no time. Remember to listen actively, practice regularly, and don't be afraid to experiment. With these tips, you'll be well on your way to mastering this funky classic. Keep grooving, guys!