Master the Melody- A Step-by-Step Guide to Playing Taylor Swift’s ‘Mean’ on the Guitar
How to Play “Mean” by Taylor Swift on Guitar
Are you a fan of Taylor Swift’s hit song “Mean”? Do you want to learn how to play it on the guitar? Look no further! In this article, we will guide you through the essential steps and techniques to play “Mean” on the guitar, so you can impress your friends and showcase your musical skills.
Understanding the Song Structure
Before diving into the guitar tabs, it’s crucial to understand the structure of the song. “Mean” is a three-chord song, which means it primarily revolves around three chords: G, D, and Em. The song follows a simple pattern of these chords throughout the verses and chorus.
Learning the Chords
To play “Mean,” you’ll need to familiarize yourself with the G, D, and Em chords. Here’s a brief guide on how to form each chord:
– G chord: Place your first finger on the third fret of the bottom string, your second finger on the second fret of the next string, and your third finger on the third fret of the next string. Strum all six strings simultaneously to play the G chord.
– D chord: Place your first finger on the second fret of the bottom string, your second finger on the third fret of the next string, and your third finger on the first fret of the next string. Strum all six strings to play the D chord.
– Em chord: Place your first finger on the second fret of the bottom string, your second finger on the first fret of the next string, and your third finger on the second fret of the next string. Strum all six strings to play the Em chord.
Playing the Verses
The verses of “Mean” alternate between the G and D chords. To play the verse, follow this pattern:
– G chord: Play the G chord for two measures.
– D chord: Play the D chord for two measures.
Repeat this pattern until the end of the verse.
Playing the Chorus
The chorus of “Mean” follows the same pattern as the verses, but with the addition of the Em chord. Here’s how to play the chorus:
– G chord: Play the G chord for two measures.
– D chord: Play the D chord for two measures.
– Em chord: Play the Em chord for two measures.
Repeat this pattern until the end of the chorus.
Adding Strumming Patterns
To give your performance a more authentic feel, consider incorporating strumming patterns. “Mean” typically uses a simple downstroke strumming pattern, where you strum down on each beat. Experiment with different strumming patterns to find the one that suits you best.
Practicing and Improving
Now that you have the chords and strumming patterns down, it’s time to practice! Start by playing the song slowly, focusing on getting the chords and strumming patterns correct. As you become more comfortable, gradually increase the tempo. Remember to listen to the original song to get a sense of the rhythm and dynamics.
Conclusion
Playing “Mean” by Taylor Swift on the guitar is a great way to showcase your skills and enjoy one of her most popular songs. By following this guide, you’ll be able to master the chords, strumming patterns, and song structure. Happy playing!
