“Hey Jude” isn’t just a song; it’s an anthem. The Beatles released it in 1968, and it quickly became one of their most beloved and recognizable tunes. The song’s message of hope and resilience resonates as much today as it did back then.
Want to play this classic on your guitar? You’ve come to the right place! This guide will give you everything you need to play “Hey Jude.”
We’ll break down the chords, suggest some strumming patterns, and offer tips specifically for beginner guitarists. Get ready to bring this timeless song to life!
Understanding the Basic Chords of “Hey Jude”
You’ll need to learn just a handful of chords to play “Hey Jude” all the way through. Here’s a list of the essential chords:
- D
- A
- A7
- G
- Em
- D7
(Find visual diagrams and online chord charts for these chords in the “Resources” section below.)
For each of these chords, it’s important to know where to put your fingers on the fretboard. The diagrams will show you exactly which strings to press down and which fingers to use. Once you get the hang of it, try switching between the chords smoothly, so you can play the song without stopping.
Some of the chords can be tricky, especially if you’re a beginner. If you’re having trouble with A7 or Em, you can find simpler versions of these chords online. These simplified versions use fewer fingers and are easier to play.
Also, you might hear about barre chords when you’re learning “Hey Jude.” Barre chords can be tough for beginners, so don’t worry about them too much at first. You can always find alternative ways to play the song without using barre chords.
Decoding the Strumming Patterns
“Hey Jude” sounds great with a few different strumming patterns. One of the most common is down-down-up-up-down-up. It’s simple, but it keeps a good rhythm and lets the chords ring out.
Don’t be afraid to mix it up! Try emphasizing different beats or adding a little pause here and there. Dynamics are key, so listen to the original recording. Notice how the strumming gets more intense during the louder parts and softens during the quieter sections? Try to mimic that.
The most important thing is to keep a steady rhythm. Using a metronome is a great way to practice. Start slow, focusing on clean chord changes and consistent strumming. As you get more comfortable, gradually increase the tempo. Before you know it, you’ll be strumming along to “Hey Jude” like a pro!
“Hey Jude” Chord Progression: Verse and Chorus
“Hey Jude” is a classic for a reason. Its chord progression is both simple and emotionally powerful, making it a blast to play and sing along to. Here’s a breakdown of the chords you’ll need to know.
Verse Progression
The verse of “Hey Jude” primarily uses these chords: D – A – Em – G. It’s a pretty straightforward progression, but the key is in the timing and feel. You’ll generally hold each chord for a full measure (four beats) before moving to the next. The transition from the Em to the G chord creates a nice lift, leading you back to the D to start the next line.
Chorus Progression
The chorus kicks in with a slightly different feel, using these chords: D – A – D – G. Notice how the D chord comes back quickly, creating a sense of resolution. Again, each chord is typically held for a full measure. The transition from the verse to the chorus feels natural and uplifting. The G chord at the end of the chorus progression sets you up perfectly to return to the D chord at the beginning of the next verse.
The “Na-na-na” Section
Ah, the “na-na-na” section! This is where everyone gets to sing along. The chord progression here is super simple, mainly just a repetition of the D and A chords. The rhythm is also very straightforward, usually just strumming each chord four times per measure. It’s the repetition and the energy that makes this section so infectious.
Tips and Techniques for Beginners
Learning any song can be challenging, but with a few strategic tips, you can master “Hey Jude” in no time.
Using a Capo
A capo is a clamp that you put on the neck of your guitar to shorten the length of the strings, which effectively changes the key of the song. If you’re finding that the original key of “Hey Jude” doesn’t quite suit your vocal range, try using a capo.
Female singers may find that putting a capo on the 3rd or 5th fret makes the song easier to sing.
Practicing Transitions
Smooth chord changes are key to making “Hey Jude” sound its best. It takes practice to get the transitions down, so be patient with yourself.
Try working on the chord changes that give you the most trouble. Slow down, focus on cleanly making each chord, and then gradually speed up the transitions as you become more comfortable.
Learning the Lyrics
Singing along while you play can help you with your timing and coordination. It can also make the whole experience more enjoyable.
Don’t worry if you don’t have the lyrics memorized right away. You can always use a cheat sheet until you feel confident enough to go without it.
The Bottom Line
So, there you have it: the basic chords, a simple strumming pattern, and some tips to help you play “Hey Jude” on your guitar. Remember, the key to mastering any song is regular practice, so pick up your guitar and start strumming!
Don’t be afraid to experiment with different strumming patterns and add your own personal touch. And once you’ve nailed “Hey Jude,” why not explore more Beatles songs or check out other guitar tutorials to continue developing your skills and expanding your repertoire? Happy playing!