The iconic song "Take On Me" by A-ha has been a favorite among music lovers for decades. The song's unique blend of synth-pop and rock elements, combined with its memorable music video, has made it a timeless classic. If you're a guitar enthusiast looking to play this song, you're in luck! In this article, we'll explore five easy ways to play the "Take On Me" chords.
The "Take On Me" chords are a bit unconventional, but with some practice, you'll be able to master them in no time. Before we dive into the chord variations, let's take a look at the song's structure and chord progression.
Song Structure and Chord Progression
"Take On Me" follows a simple verse-chorus structure, with an intro and bridge section. The chord progression is based on a combination of major and minor chords, with a focus on the key of A minor.
The verse chord progression is:
Am - F - G - C Am - F - G - C
The chorus chord progression is:
F - G - Am - C F - G - Am - C
The bridge section uses a variation of the verse chord progression, with an added Em chord.
Easy Way 1: Simplified Chord Progression
If you're new to playing guitar, you can start with a simplified version of the chord progression. Use the following chords:
Verse: Am - F - G - C Chorus: F - G - Am - C
You can play each chord for one measure, using a down-up strumming pattern. Focus on playing clean, clear chords, and don't worry too much about the timing.
Easy Way 2: Use a Capo
Using a capo can make playing the "Take On Me" chords much easier. Place a capo on the 2nd fret of your guitar, and use the following chords:
Verse: C - G - Am - F Chorus: G - Am - C - F
This will give you a similar sound to the original song, without having to play the more complex chord shapes.
Easy Way 3: Use a Chord Chart
If you're having trouble reading chord sheets, you can use a chord chart to help you learn the "Take On Me" chords. A chord chart will show you the finger positions for each chord, making it easier to learn.
Here's a chord chart for the verse chord progression:
e|---0---| B|---2---| G|---2---| D|---2---| A|---0---| E|---0---|
This chord chart shows the finger positions for the Am chord. You can use a similar chart for the F, G, and C chords.
Easy Way 4: Break Down the Chords
If you're having trouble playing the full chord shapes, try breaking them down into smaller parts. Focus on playing the individual strings, rather than the full chord.
For example, you can play the Am chord by playing the individual strings:
e|---0---| B|---2---| G|---2---| D|---2---| A|---0---| E|---0---|
Start by playing the low E string (thickest string), then move up to the B string, and so on.
Easy Way 5: Use a Guitar Tablature
If you're more comfortable reading guitar tablature (tab), you can use a tab to help you learn the "Take On Me" chords. A tab will show you the individual strings and frets to play, making it easier to learn.
Here's a tab for the verse chord progression:
e|---0---0---| B|---2---2---| G|---2---2---| D|---2---2---| A|---0---0---| E|---0---0---|
This tab shows the finger positions for the Am and F chords. You can use a similar tab for the G and C chords.
Gallery of Take On Me Chords
FAQs
What is the easiest way to play the "Take On Me" chords?
+The easiest way to play the "Take On Me" chords is to use a simplified chord progression, such as the one shown in Easy Way 1.
Can I use a capo to play the "Take On Me" chords?
+Yes, you can use a capo to play the "Take On Me" chords. Placing a capo on the 2nd fret will give you a similar sound to the original song.
What is the best way to learn the "Take On Me" chords?
+The best way to learn the "Take On Me" chords is to practice regularly and use a combination of the methods shown in this article.
We hope this article has helped you learn the "Take On Me" chords. Remember to practice regularly and have fun playing this iconic song!