Hey everyone! Today, we're diving into one of the most beloved Beatles tunes of all time: "Here Comes the Sun." This song is pure sunshine in musical form, and we'll be exploring everything from the chords and key to some fun facts and ways you can play it yourself. So, grab your guitar (or your instrument of choice), and let's get started!

The Magic of "Here Comes the Sun"

"Here Comes the Sun," written by George Harrison, is a song that just makes you feel good. It was released on the Beatles' iconic album Abbey Road in 1969, and it quickly became a fan favorite. The song's cheerful melody and hopeful lyrics resonated with people during a time of social and political upheaval. The song's brilliance lies in its simplicity and its ability to evoke such strong emotions. It's a testament to the power of music to uplift and inspire. From the very first strum, you're transported to a place of warmth and optimism. That makes it a fantastic song for beginners and experienced players alike. The chord progressions are relatively straightforward, but the song still sounds incredibly rich and full. Whether you're singing along or just enjoying the music, "Here Comes the Sun" is a timeless classic that continues to bring joy to listeners worldwide. It is a song that has been covered by countless artists, a true testament to its lasting appeal and the impact of the chords and overall structure. The genius lies in its ability to be both simple and profound. It is also a very popular song to play around the campfire, adding to its charm and timelessness. The song perfectly encapsulates the feeling of a new beginning, a fresh start, and the promise of brighter days ahead. It is a must-know song for any musician, and in this article, we'll give you everything you need to get started. The structure is pretty simple, making it easy to learn the chords and play along. Let's delve deep into the music and break it down, so that you too, can experience the magic!

Understanding the Key of A

Okay, let's talk about the key. "Here Comes the Sun" is primarily in the key of A major. Knowing the key is super important because it tells you which chords are likely to be used. In the key of A major, the basic chords are A major, D major, and E major. These are the chords that form the backbone of the song. However, George Harrison cleverly incorporated other chords to add color and depth. These include chords like C#m and Bm, which bring a little bit of complexity and a unique flavor to the music. Understanding the key also helps you figure out which notes sound good together. It guides you in improvising solos, adding your own embellishments, or even transposing the song to a different key if you want to sing along but the original key doesn’t suit your vocal range. The key signature of A major has three sharps: F#, C#, and G#. These sharps determine the notes that are raised within the scale, and they shape the melodies and harmonies. The key of A major is a really pleasant and versatile key. Many popular songs are written in A major because it's bright and uplifting. So, if you're looking to learn more songs, understanding the key of A major is a great starting point.

The Basic Chords in A Major

As we said, the primary chords in A major are A, D, and E. These are the building blocks of "Here Comes the Sun." Let's take a quick look at each one:

• A major: You play this by barring the second fret of the D, G, and B strings and playing the open A string. Place your third finger on the second fret of the D string and your first finger on the first fret of the B string.
• D major: Place your first finger on the second fret of the G string, your second finger on the second fret of the E string, and your third finger on the third fret of the B string.
• E major: Place your first finger on the first fret of the G string, your second finger on the second fret of the A string, and your third finger on the second fret of the D string.

Learning these chords is a must if you want to play "Here Comes the Sun." They're not too difficult, and with a little practice, you'll have them down in no time. Remember to practice slowly at first, focusing on clean transitions between chords. Once you're comfortable with the basics, you can start experimenting with different strumming patterns and adding your own flair to the song. It is essential to master these chords, as they form the foundation of a huge number of songs, not just this one. This simple concept will help you get better and better, and before you know it, you will be playing along with the song!

The Chord Progression: Unveiling the Structure

The chord progression of "Here Comes the Sun" is relatively simple but incredibly effective. The main progression goes something like this:

• Verse: A / D / E / A
• Chorus: D / A / E / A

This simple structure is easy to follow and allows the melody to really shine. Throughout the song, George Harrison adds variations to the chord progression to keep things interesting. In some sections, you'll hear Bm, C#m, and other chords sprinkled in to add extra depth. The use of these chords creates tension and release, which makes the song more dynamic and engaging. One of the reasons "Here Comes the Sun" is so beloved is its accessibility. Even if you're just starting out on your musical journey, you can learn the basic chords and play along. The song's structure is also very conducive to improvisation. Once you're comfortable with the chords, you can start experimenting with your own strumming patterns or even adding your own riffs and fills. The simplicity of the progression also lends itself to various arrangements. Whether you're playing solo acoustic or with a full band, the chord progression remains the foundation of the song. It's truly a testament to the songwriting brilliance of George Harrison. Even though it appears simple on the surface, its magic lies in its ability to evoke such strong emotions and create a sense of joy and optimism. This makes the song an excellent choice for a wide range of musical settings, from quiet singalongs to lively performances.

Breakdown of the Chord Progression

Let's break down the chord progression in a little more detail. The verse starts with A, moves to D, then to E, and back to A. The chorus, which often feels like a triumphant moment in the song, starts with D, moves to A, then to E, and finally returns to A. The transitions between these chords are pretty smooth, which contributes to the song's overall feel-good vibe. Notice how the use of the E chord at the end of the verse creates a sense of anticipation for the chorus. And then, when you hit the D chord in the chorus, it feels like the sun is finally breaking through the clouds. As you listen and play along, pay attention to how the chords interact with each other. Feel the energy of the song build and release. You will discover the power of a well-crafted chord progression. These seemingly simple choices are the elements that give a song its unique character and emotional impact. The ability to understand and appreciate these nuances will make you a better musician.

Tips for Playing "Here Comes the Sun"

Here are some tips to help you play "Here Comes the Sun" like a pro:

• Practice Slowly: Start by practicing the chords and transitions slowly. This will help you build muscle memory and ensure clean changes.
• Use a Metronome: A metronome will help you keep a steady tempo, which is essential for any song.
• Master the Strumming Pattern: Experiment with different strumming patterns to find one that suits your style. The original song has a pretty straightforward pattern.
• Listen to the Original: Listen closely to the original recording to get a feel for the song's rhythm and phrasing.
• Sing Along: Singing along will help you internalize the song's structure and feel.

Strumming Patterns to Try

Here are a couple of strumming patterns you can try:

• Basic: Down, down, up, up, down, up
• More Advanced: Down, down, up, up, down, up, with a slight emphasis on the downstrokes.

Remember, the goal is to have fun and make music. Don't be afraid to experiment and find what works best for you. With a little practice, you'll be playing "Here Comes the Sun" with confidence and enjoyment. These simple tips will set you up for success. Remember, even the best guitarists started somewhere! The important thing is to keep playing, keep practicing, and most importantly, keep having fun. And, don't be afraid to make mistakes! Mistakes are a natural part of the learning process. Embrace them, learn from them, and keep moving forward.

Conclusion: Embrace the Sunshine!

So there you have it, guys! A deep dive into the chords, key, and overall magic of "Here Comes the Sun." This song is a true gem, and we hope this guide has inspired you to pick up your instrument and start playing. Whether you're a beginner or a seasoned musician, "Here Comes the Sun" offers something for everyone. So go on, grab your guitar, and bring a little sunshine into your life. Now that you have learned about the chords, key, and structure of this iconic song, you are well on your way to playing it yourself! Embrace the joy and positive vibes that this song brings, and let it brighten your day. Keep practicing, keep learning, and most importantly, keep enjoying the music! This song is a great reminder that brighter days are always ahead. So keep strumming and keep smiling! Happy playing!