how to play collective soul december on guitar

2 min read 03-12-2024

how to play collective soul december on guitar

Meta Description: Learn to play Collective Soul's "December" on guitar! This comprehensive guide breaks down the chords, strumming patterns, and techniques for mastering this iconic 90s hit. Includes video tutorials and tips for beginners.

Introduction

Collective Soul's "December" is a timeless classic, instantly recognizable for its emotional melody and powerful guitar riff. Learning to play it on guitar is a rewarding experience, whether you're a seasoned player or just starting out. This guide will walk you through the chords, strumming patterns, and techniques to help you master this iconic 90s hit. By the end, you'll be ready to impress your friends with your rendition of "December."

Understanding the Chords

"December" primarily uses a few basic chords, making it accessible to guitarists of all skill levels. The main chords are:

G major: A staple in many rock songs, this chord forms the foundation of "December's" structure.
C major: Provides a pleasing contrast to the G major, adding to the song's dynamic feel.
D major: Adds a touch of brightness and resolution to the progression.
Em (E minor): This adds a darker, moodier tone to the song.

Chord Shapes (Standard Tuning)

(Include diagrams of each chord here. You can find many free resources online to create these. Alternatively, describe the finger placement for each chord.)

Strumming Pattern

The strumming pattern for "December" is relatively straightforward, but achieving the right feel takes practice. The basic pattern involves a combination of downstrokes and upstrokes, with occasional rests to create a sense of space.

Basic Pattern: D-D-U-D-D-U (Repeat) (D = Downstroke, U = Upstroke)

This is a starting point; experiment with variations in rhythm and intensity to personalize your performance. Pay attention to the dynamics; some sections will require softer strumming, while others call for a more powerful approach.

Mastering the Intro Riff

The intro riff is what makes "December" instantly recognizable. It involves a simple but effective pattern using power chords.

Power Chords Used: G5, C5, D5 (Learn how to play power chords if you don't already know)

Intro Riff Tablature (Optional)

(Include a tablature for the intro riff here. You can create this yourself or use online resources. If using online resources, cite the source.)

(Alternatively, describe the riff in detail, including timing and finger placement.)

Tips and Techniques

Practice Regularly: Consistent practice is key to mastering any song. Start slowly and gradually increase the tempo as you gain confidence.
Listen Carefully: Pay close attention to the original recording. This will help you internalize the timing, phrasing, and dynamics of the song.
Use a Metronome: A metronome is an invaluable tool for developing good timing and rhythm.
Record Yourself: Recording yourself playing allows you to identify areas for improvement.
Don't Be Afraid to Experiment: Once you've got the basics down, don't be afraid to experiment with different strumming patterns and variations.

Adding the Vocals (Optional)

Once you've mastered the guitar part, you can consider adding vocals. Learn the lyrics and practice singing along with the guitar. Focus on matching the emotional tone of the song.

Conclusion

Learning to play Collective Soul's "December" on guitar is a fun and rewarding experience. With consistent practice and attention to detail, you'll be able to master this classic rock anthem. Remember to listen to the original recording frequently, experiment with different techniques and most importantly, have fun! Now go forth and rock!

(Consider adding a section with links to helpful video tutorials on YouTube or other platforms.)