Blue Christmas Chords For Guitar

The holiday season is upon us, and what better way to get into the festive spirit than with a classic Christmas song on the guitar? "Blue Christmas" is a timeless tune that has been covered by countless artists over the years, and with these easy-to-follow chords, you can add your own rendition to the mix.

Why Play "Blue Christmas" on Guitar?

"Blue Christmas" is a beautiful, melancholic song that captures the bittersweet feelings of the holiday season. With its simple yet emotive melody, it's the perfect song to play on the guitar, especially for those who are just starting out. Plus, it's a great way to get into the holiday spirit and entertain your loved ones with a soulful performance.

The Story Behind "Blue Christmas"

"Blue Christmas" was written by Jay W. Johnson and Billy Hayes in 1948 and was first recorded by Doye O'Dell. However, it was Elvis Presley's 1957 version that catapulted the song to fame, making it one of the most popular Christmas songs of all time. Since then, it has been covered by countless artists, including Willie Nelson, Sheryl Crow, and Celine Dion, to name a few.

Blue Christmas Chords for Guitar

Here are the chords you'll need to play "Blue Christmas" on guitar:

• Verse: C - G7 - Am - F
• Chorus: F - G7 - C - Am
• Bridge: Am - F - G7 - C

These chords are easy to play and require minimal finger movement, making it a great song for beginners to learn.

Chord Variations

To give your "Blue Christmas" rendition a bit more flair, you can try adding some chord variations. Here are a few suggestions:

• Add a seventh to the C chord (C7) for a richer sound
• Use a slow, arpeggiated pattern for the G7 chord to create a sense of tension
• Substitute the F chord with an Fmaj7 for a more jazz-inspired feel

Tips for Playing "Blue Christmas" on Guitar

Here are a few tips to help you play "Blue Christmas" like a pro:

• Use a slow, contemplative tempo to capture the song's melancholic mood
• Focus on playing clean, crisp chords to create a clear, bell-like sound
• Experiment with different strumming patterns to add texture and interest to the song

Playing the Intro and Outro

The intro and outro of "Blue Christmas" feature a simple, haunting melody that sets the tone for the rest of the song. To play this section, use a slow, fingerpicking pattern, focusing on the C and G7 chords.

Playing "Blue Christmas" with a Pick

If you prefer to play with a pick, you can use a slow, down-up strumming pattern to create a sense of movement. Focus on playing the lower strings (E, A, D) for a fuller sound.

Adding a Guitar Solo

If you're feeling adventurous, you can try adding a guitar solo to your "Blue Christmas" rendition. Focus on using the C, G7, and Am chords as a harmonic foundation, and experiment with different scales and melodies to create a soulful, improvisational feel.

Conclusion

With these easy-to-follow chords and tips, you're ready to start playing "Blue Christmas" on guitar. Whether you're a beginner or an experienced player, this timeless song is sure to bring a touch of holiday magic to your performances. So why not grab your guitar and start playing?