Christmas is just around the corner, and what better way to get into the holiday spirit than by learning to play one of the most iconic Christmas songs of all time - "Last Christmas" by Wham! In this article, we'll break down the chords and provide an easy guitar tutorial to help you master this festive favorite.
Why "Last Christmas" Remains a Holiday Classic
"Last Christmas" was released in 1984 and has since become a staple of holiday playlists around the world. The song's enduring popularity can be attributed to its catchy melody, heartfelt lyrics, and the unmistakable vocals of George Michael. Whether you're a seasoned musician or a beginner, learning to play "Last Christmas" on guitar is a great way to spread some holiday cheer.
Easy Guitar Chords for "Last Christmas"
To play "Last Christmas" on guitar, you'll need to know the following chords:
- G major (G)
- D major (D)
- Em (E minor)
- C major (C)
- B7 (B dominant 7th)
Don't worry if you're new to guitar - these chords are relatively easy to learn, and we'll provide a step-by-step guide on how to play them.
Chord Progression for "Last Christmas"
The chord progression for "Last Christmas" is straightforward and follows a simple pattern. Here's a breakdown of the chords and their progression:
Verse: G - D - Em - C G - D - Em - C
Chorus: G - D - B7 - C G - D - B7 - C
Bridge: Em - C - G - D Em - C - G - D
Easy Guitar Tutorial for "Last Christmas"
Now that you know the chords and chord progression, let's dive into a step-by-step guide on how to play "Last Christmas" on guitar.
Step 1: Play the Verse
Start by playing the verse chords: G - D - Em - C. Focus on smooth transitions between chords and play each chord for one measure.
Step 2: Play the Chorus
Next, play the chorus chords: G - D - B7 - C. Emphasize the B7 chord, which gives the song its distinctive sound.
Step 3: Play the Bridge
The bridge chords are Em - C - G - D. Play these chords with a slightly slower tempo to create a sense of tension before returning to the final chorus.
Step 4: Add Strumming Patterns
Once you're comfortable with the chord progression, add some basic strumming patterns to give the song some rhythm. Try a down-up-down-up pattern, emphasizing the downbeats.
Step 5: Add Fingerpicking (Optional)
For a more advanced sound, try adding some fingerpicking patterns to the verse and chorus. Use your thumb to play the bass notes and your fingers to play the treble notes.
Tips and Tricks for Playing "Last Christmas" on Guitar
Here are some additional tips to help you master "Last Christmas" on guitar:
- Use a metronome to keep a steady tempo.
- Focus on smooth chord transitions by practicing chord changes slowly.
- Experiment with different strumming patterns to find one that suits your style.
- Consider adding some festive flair with holiday-themed guitar picks or a Santa hat.
Conclusion: Spread Holiday Cheer with "Last Christmas" on Guitar
With these easy guitar chords and tutorial, you're ready to spread some holiday cheer with "Last Christmas" on guitar. Whether you're playing for friends and family or at a local holiday gathering, this song is sure to get everyone in the festive spirit. So grab your guitar, practice those chords, and get ready to make this holiday season one to remember!
What are the easiest guitar chords for beginners?
+The easiest guitar chords for beginners are typically G, D, Em, and C. These chords are simple to learn and are used in many popular songs.
How do I strum a guitar for a holiday song?
+To strum a guitar for a holiday song, try using a down-up-down-up pattern, emphasizing the downbeats. You can also experiment with different strumming patterns to find one that suits the song's rhythm.
Can I play "Last Christmas" on an acoustic or electric guitar?
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