Master the Melodies- A Step-by-Step Guide to Playing ‘Desperately Wanting’ on Guitar

How to Play “Desperately Wanting” on Guitar

Guitarists often find themselves searching for new songs to add to their repertoire, and “Desperately Wanting” by Paramore is a fantastic choice for those looking to expand their skill set. This emotionally charged track features a memorable melody and a catchy rhythm that can be both challenging and rewarding to play. In this article, we will guide you through the process of learning how to play “Desperately Wanting” on guitar, covering the necessary chords, strumming patterns, and tips to help you master this hit song.

Understanding the Chords

Before diving into the strumming patterns, it is crucial to familiarize yourself with the chords used in “Desperately Wanting.” The song primarily revolves around the following chords:

– G major
– C major
– D major
– Em

These chords are the foundation of the song and will be used throughout the entire track. To play them, position your fingers as follows:

– G major: Place your index finger on the third fret of the low E string, your middle finger on the third fret of the A string, your ring finger on the third fret of the D string, and your pinky on the third fret of the G string.
– C major: Place your index finger on the third fret of the low E string, your middle finger on the third fret of the A string, your ring finger on the third fret of the D string, and your pinky on the first fret of the G string.
– D major: Place your index finger on the second fret of the low E string, your middle finger on the second fret of the A string, your ring finger on the second fret of the D string, and your pinky on the second fret of the G string.
– Em: Place your index finger on the second fret of the low E string, your middle finger on the second fret of the A string, your ring finger on the second fret of the D string, and your pinky on the first fret of the G string.

Strumming Patterns

Once you have a good grasp of the chords, it’s time to focus on the strumming patterns. “Desperately Wanting” features a mix of downstrokes and upstrokes, creating a dynamic and engaging rhythm. Here’s a breakdown of the strumming patterns for each chord:

– G major: Down, down, up, down, down, up, down, down, up, down, down, up
– C major: Down, down, up, down, down, up, down, down, up, down, down, up
– D major: Down, down, up, down, down, up, down, down, up, down, down, up
– Em: Down, down, up, down, down, up, down, down, up, down, down, up

Practice Tips

To master “Desperately Wanting” on guitar, it’s essential to practice regularly and focus on the following tips:

– Start by playing each chord individually, ensuring you have a solid grip on each one.
– Once you’re comfortable with the chords, begin to practice the strumming patterns, focusing on maintaining a consistent rhythm.
– Record yourself playing the song to identify areas that need improvement and to track your progress.
– Don’t be afraid to slow down the song while practicing to ensure you’re playing each note accurately.
– Experiment with different strumming patterns and dynamics to add your personal touch to the song.

Conclusion

Learning how to play “Desperately Wanting” on guitar can be a challenging but rewarding experience. By understanding the chords, mastering the strumming patterns, and practicing regularly, you’ll be well on your way to performing this popular track with confidence. Happy practicing!