1. How to Play Nirvana's Come As You Are on Guitar • hornetsecurity.com

Embark on a musical journey, where the iconic strains of Nirvana’s “Come As You Are” await your fingertips. This anthem of the grunge era has captured the hearts of generations, and now you can bring its raw energy to life on your guitar. Dive into the intricate strumming patterns, the haunting chord progressions, and the melodic lead that have etched this masterpiece into rock history. Prepare to unlock the secrets of this timeless classic and let its defiant spirit resonate through your own six strings.

As you embark on this guitar odyssey, it’s essential to familiarize yourself with the fundamental building blocks that make up “Come As You Are.” The song’s backbone is a steady strumming pattern, alternating between downstrokes and upstrokes. Transitions between chords are seamless and fluid, creating a hypnotic groove that draws the listener in. The heart of the track lies in the interplay between the rhythm and lead guitar parts. The rhythm guitar provides the harmonic foundation, while the lead guitar weaves in melodic phrases that soar above the fray. Master these elements, and you’ll have the key to unlocking the true essence of this grunge masterpiece.

To fully embrace the spirit of “Come As You Are,” it’s important to delve into the specifics of its construction. The song is built around a simple but effective chord progression, consisting of Am, F, C, and G. These chords are played in a cyclical pattern, with subtle variations in the strumming pattern to create a sense of dynamics. The lead guitar part, meanwhile, is a blend of single notes and power chords, adding depth and complexity to the overall sound. As you practice, pay close attention to the timing and placement of each note, as they are crucial in capturing the song’s distinctive character.

Tuning and Essential Equipment

Before embarking on the musical journey of Nirvana’s “Come As You Are,” proper preparation is paramount. Let’s dive into the intricacies of equipment and tuning.

Tuning

Nirvana’s signature sound relies heavily on a specific tuning, which differs from the standard E-A-D-G-B-E. To achieve the iconic “Come As You Are” riff, you’ll need to retune your guitar to the following open chords:

String	Tuning
Sixth (low E)	D
Fifth (A)	A
Fourth (D)	F
Third (G)	C
Second (B)	G
First (high E)	d

This alternative tuning unlocks the characteristically resonant and haunting effect that defines Nirvana’s music. It’s essential to tune your guitar accurately to capture the intended sound. Use a tuner to ensure precision and avoid any pitch discrepancies that could hinder your performance.

Essential Equipment

To play “Come As You Are,” you’ll need a few guitar essentials:

Electric guitar: Nirvana primarily used Fender Stratocasters and Kurt Cobain’s signature Fender Jaguar.
Guitar amplifier: A tube amplifier with overdrive capabilities can help achieve the distortion and warmth heard in the song.
Guitar pick: A medium-to-heavy pick will provide the necessary attack and clarity for the riff.
Guitar cable: Ensure you have a high-quality cable to connect your guitar to the amplifier.
Guitar tuner: As mentioned earlier, a tuner is vital for achieving the accurate open tuning required for the song.

Once you have assembled the necessary equipment, you’re set to embark on the musical journey of “Come As You Are.” Practice with dedication, and you’ll be able to master the iconic riff and strum along to Nirvana’s hauntingly beautiful anthem.

Understanding the Basic Progression

The foundation of “Come As You Are” lies in its straightforward chord progression. The song primarily revolves around three chords: Dm, G, and C. Here’s a more detailed breakdown:

Chord	Root Note	Fingering
Dm	D	x57705
G	G	320033
C	C	x32010

The progression follows this pattern: Dm – G – C. This sequence is repeated throughout the verse and chorus, providing the backbone of the song’s harmonic structure. The simplicity of the progression allows guitarists of all skill levels to easily pick up and play along. However, despite its simplicity, this progression effectively creates a haunting and melancholic atmosphere that perfectly complements the song’s lyrical message.

The key to mastering this progression is to establish a steady strumming pattern and clearly define each chord change. Consistent practice and attention to detail will help you develop fluidity and accuracy in playing these chords.

Mastering the Riff

The iconic riff of Nirvana’s “Come As You Are” is a deceptively simple yet powerful hook. It relies on a combination of palm muting and pinch harmonics to create a distinctive and unforgettable sound.

To master this riff, it’s crucial to practice the following steps:

1. Palm Muting:** Grip the strings tightly with the edge of your picking hand and rest it on the bridge of the guitar, creating a muffled sound. Keep your fingers close to the strings and mute all strings except for the ones you’re playing.

2. Pinch Harmonics:** Let your picking hand rest lightly on the string and pick it with the tip of your thumb. Simultaneously, lightly touch the string with the side of your picking hand just above the pickup. This creates a high-pitched harmonic squeal.

3. Riff Practice:** Break the riff into smaller sections and practice them slowly and meticulously. Focus on timing, palm muting techniques, and pinch harmonic placement. When you’re comfortable with each section, gradually increase the speed and connect them together.

Section Description

Verse Riff Two-note palm-muted power chords played together with repetitive pinch harmonics.

Chorus Riff Longer, palm-muted power chord progression with more frequent pinch harmonics.

Bridge Riff Distorted, sustained chords with occasional pinch harmonics.

4. Listen and Analyze:** Listen to the original song and pay attention to the timing, palm muting, and pinch harmonic execution. Try to imitate the techniques and feel of the riff.

Mastering the “Come As You Are” riff requires patience, practice, and attention to detail. By following these steps, you can develop your technique and perform this classic song with authenticity and confidence.

Playing the Verse and Bridge

The verse and bridge of “Come As You Are” share the same chord progression, which is a simple loop between the C, G, and F chords. However, the strumming pattern changes slightly between the two sections.

Verse

In the verse, the strumming pattern is:

Downstroke on the first beat

Upstroke on the second beat

Downstroke on the third beat

Upstroke on the fourth beat

Bridge

In the bridge, the strumming pattern changes to:

Downstroke on the first beat

Upstroke on the second beat

Downstroke on the third beat

Mute on the fourth beat

The muted strum on the fourth beat gives the bridge a slightly more subdued and introspective feel than the verse.

Chord Duration and Feel

The timing of the chords played by Kurt Cobain in “Come As You Are” is often described as relaxed and laid-back. The following table provides a simple breakdown of the approximate duration of each chord for the verse and bridge sections:

Chord Verse Duration Bridge Duration

C 3 beats 3 beats

G 3 beats 3 beats

F 3 beats 3 beats

Note that these durations are approximate and can be adjusted to your own playing style and feel. The key is to maintain a relaxed and steady rhythm while transitioning between the chords.

Dynamics and Accents

The song’s dynamics and accents play a crucial role in capturing its emotional impact. Dynamics refers to the variations in volume, while accents emphasize specific notes or chords. Here’s a detailed breakdown of the dynamics and accents in “Come As You Are”:

Verse 1

The verse begins with a soft, gentle strumming pattern, gradually building in volume as the lyrics progress. The chords are played with a light, percussive accent on the downbeats, especially the open A and F chords.

Chorus

The chorus contrasts with the verse with a sudden burst of power chords. The strumming becomes more aggressive, with a strong downbeat accent on the root notes of the chords.

Bridge

The bridge features a shift in dynamics, with a softer, introspective feel. The strumming pattern becomes more syncopated, with accents on the off-beats.

Interlude

The interlude consists of a guitar solo, where the accents are used to create melodic contours and emphasize certain notes. The solo moves fluidly between legato and staccato techniques.

Verse 2

The second verse follows a similar dynamic pattern as the first verse, with a gradual build-up in volume. The accents on the downbeats of the chords provide rhythmic stability.

Chorus

The chorus repeats with the same dynamic intensity and power chord accents as in the first chorus, reinforcing the emotional climax of the song.

Outro

The outro gradually fades out, with the final chords played at a lower volume and a relaxed accent pattern. The strumming becomes more delicate, creating a sense of resolution and closure.

Section Dynamics Accents

Verse 1 Soft, gradually building Light, percussive downbeats

Chorus Sudden burst, power chords Strong downbeat accents

Bridge Soft, introspective Syncopated, offbeat accents

Interlude Fluid, melodic Legato and staccato techniques

Verse 2 Similar to Verse 1 Downbeat accents

Chorus Same as Chorus 1 Power chord accents

Outro Fading, relaxed Delicate strumming

Solo and Variation

Verse 3 Solo

After the 2nd verse, Kurt Cobain launched into the track’s iconic guitar solo. To play this solo, you’ll need to use a combination of techniques, including:

Bending

Sliding

Vibrato

The solo is played over the same chord progression as the verses (G5, C5, D5).

Variation

Cobain created a variation on the solo during the bridge of the track. This variation incorporates more feedback and distortion. To play the variation:

Start by playing the first part of the solo as described above.

After the first bend, increase the distortion and feedback on your guitar.

Continue playing the solo, using more slides and vibrato.

At the end of the solo, let the feedback and distortion ring out.

Verse Riff Chorus Riff

G5 – C5 – D5 G5 – C5 – G5 – D5

Advanced Techniques

7. Alternate Picking Hand Movement

While playing the main riff, it’s essential to maintain an alternating picking motion. This involves using a downward stroke for the bass notes and an upward stroke for the higher notes. Practice this motion separately in a slow, methodical manner to develop precision and fluidity.

Here’s a breakdown of the picking pattern:

Remember to start the picking motion from a relaxed position, using just enough force to produce a clear sound. As you gain proficiency, gradually increase the speed while maintaining accuracy.
Practice Tips for Beginners
1. Start Slow
Don’t rush into playing the song at full speed. Break down the song into smaller parts and focus on getting each section right before moving on.
2. Practice Each Section Separately
Focus on one section at a time, such as the intro, verse, chorus, or bridge. This will help you master the individual parts before putting them together.
3. Use a Metronome
Use a metronome to keep a steady beat while practicing. This will help you develop a strong sense of rhythm and ensure your timing is accurate.
4. Listen to the Original Recording
Pay close attention to the original recording to identify the exact notes, chords, and rhythms used. This will help you develop a deeper understanding of the song.
5. Break Down Chord Fingerings
Don’t try to learn the chords all at once. Break them down into smaller fingerings and practice each one until it becomes comfortable.
6. Use Power Chords
Nirvana often used power chords in “Come As You Are.” These chords are easy to play and create a distinctive grunge sound.
7. Practice String Muting
String muting is essential for achieving the clean and articulate sound of “Come As You Are.” Use your fretting hand to lightly touch the strings you’re not playing to prevent them from ringing.
8. Extended Practice Plan for Mastery
To fully master “Come As You Are,” consider incorporating these additional practice techniques:

Note
Picking Motion

Bass Note Downward Stroke

Higher Note Upward Stroke

Practice Technique Benefits

Scales and Arpeggios Improves finger dexterity and fretboard knowledge.

Interval Training Develops a strong understanding of distances between notes.

Alternate Picking Enhances fluidity and speed while playing.

Ear Training Strengthens your ability to recognize and reproduce notes by ear.

Essential Gear for Playing “Come As You Are” on Guitar

* Electric guitar with two single-coil or humbucker pickups
* Guitar amplifier with a clean or slightly overdriven sound
* Wah-wah pedal (optional)

Step-by-Step Guide to Playing “Come As You Are” on Guitar

Tune your guitar to Drop D tuning (DADGBE).

Strum the following chord progression: Am | C | F | G

Play the main riff: e|—-5-5-5-5-3-3-3-3—|B|—-7-7-7-7-5-5-5-5—|G|—-6-6-6-6-4-4-4-4—|D|—-5-5-5-5-3-3-3-3—|A|————————-|E|————————-|

Add the wah-wah effect (optional): Engage the wah-wah pedal and rock it back and forth to create a sweeping effect.

Follow the bridge solo: e|————————-|B|————————-|G|–7-7–9-9–11-11–14-14-|D|–7-7–9-9–11-11–14-14-|A|–5-5–7-7–9–9—-12–|E|————————-|

Return to the main riff and chord progression.

Play the second solo: e|——————————————————-|B|——————————————————-|G|–7-7–9-9–11-11–14-14–16–16–18–18–19–19–|D|–7-7–9-9–11-11–14-14–16–16–18–18–19–19–|A|–5-5–7-7–9–9—-12——14——16——18——|E|——————————————————-|

Repeat the main riff and chord progression.

End on the Am chord.

Common Mistakes and Fixes

1. Strumming Too Hard or Too Soft

To achieve the smooth, flowing sound of the song, strum with a consistent and moderate力度. If you strum too hard, the sound will be harsh; too soft, and it will be weak.

2. Not Using The Wah-Wah Pedal Correctly

The wah-wah pedal adds a distinctive character to the song. Make sure to rock it back and forth smoothly and in rhythm with the music. Avoid overusing it, as this can sound overwhelming.

3. Rushing or Dragging the Tempo

Keeping a steady tempo is crucial for the song’s overall groove. Use a metronome or practice along with a recording to ensure you’re playing at the correct speed.

4. Playing the Riff Inaccurately

The main riff is a defining element of the song. Practice it slowly and gradually increase the speed as you get more comfortable with the fingering.

5. Not Muting The Strings

Proper muting is essential to prevent unwanted string noise. Use your fretting hand to mute any strings you’re not playing, creating a clean and articulate sound.

6. Overusing Distorted Effects

“Come As You Are” features a relatively clean guitar sound. While some distortion can add warmth, avoid overdoing it, as it can muddy the tone.

7. Playing The Solo Notes Out of Tune

The solo requires accurate intonation. Use a tuner to ensure your guitar is in tune and practice the notes slowly before attempting to play them at full speed.

8. Not Adding Enough Expression

To bring the song to life, add some personal expression. Use dynamics, vibrato, and slides to create a more emotive performance.

9. Not Practicing Regularly

Regular practice is key to mastering any guitar piece. Set aside dedicated time each day to work on your techniques and improve your overall playing. Consistency is the key to success.

Additional Resources and Tips

If you’re looking for more resources to help you master “Come As You Are,” here are some suggestions:

Official Nirvana tabs: Visit the official Nirvana website to purchase official tabs for “Come As You Are” and other Nirvana songs.

Online tutorials: Search for “Come As You Are” guitar tutorials on YouTube or other online platforms to find step-by-step video guides.

Guitar books: Check out guitar method books that focus on alternative rock or grunge styles, which will help you develop the appropriate techniques for this song.

Here are some additional tips to enhance your playing:

Practice regularly: Consistency is key to improving your guitar skills. Dedicate regular time to practicing “Come As You Are” to build muscle memory and accuracy.

Use a metronome: Incorporate a metronome into your practice routine to develop a steady rhythm and keep you on track.

Slow down and focus: Break down the song into smaller sections and practice them slowly at first, gradually increasing the speed as you become more comfortable.

Pay attention to dynamics: “Come As You Are” features dynamic changes throughout the song. Be mindful of the soft verse and the heavier chorus, and adjust your picking and strumming accordingly.

Use a distortion pedal: A distortion pedal will add the grungy, distorted sound that is characteristic of this song.

Experiment with different guitar tunings: Nirvana often used drop D tuning for their songs, including “Come As You Are.” Experiment with this tuning to achieve the correct sound.

Use power chords: Power chords are a staple of grunge music and are prominently featured in “Come As You Are.” Learn the basic shapes and practice transitioning between them smoothly.

Sing and play simultaneously: If you’re comfortable with singing, try to combine singing and playing “Come As You Are.” This will challenge your coordination and improve your overall performance.

Don’t be afraid to make mistakes: Learning a new song takes time and effort. Don’t get discouraged by mistakes, and instead use them as opportunities for improvement.

Have fun: Most importantly, enjoy the process of learning and playing “Come As You Are.” Music is meant to be enjoyed, so relax, immerse yourself in the experience, and let the music flow through you.

How to Play Nirvana’s Come As You Are on Guitar

Nirvana’s “Come As You Are” is a classic grunge anthem that is both simple and powerful to play on guitar. Here are the steps to play the song:

Tune your guitar to E flat tuning. This is done by tuning each string down a half step from standard tuning.

Play the main riff. The main riff is played on the low E string at the 7th fret, the A string at the 5th fret, and the D string at the 7th fret. The strumming pattern is down, down, down, down, up, down.

Play the verse chords. The verse chords are G, C, D, and Em. They are played in the following order: G, C, G, D, Em, C, G.

Play the chorus chords. The chorus chords are G, C, D, and C. They are played in the following order: G, C, G, D, C, C, G.

Play the bridge chords. The bridge chords are Am, F, C, and G. They are played in the following order: Am, F, C, G, Am, F, C, G.

Play the solo. The solo is played on the high E string at the 12th fret, the A string at the 10th fret, and the D string at the 12th fret. The strumming pattern is down, down, down, down, up, down.

Repeat steps 3-6 to complete the song.

People Also Ask About How to Play Nirvana’s Come As You Are on Guitar

How hard is it to play Come As You Are on guitar?

Come As You Are is a relatively easy song to play on guitar, making it a great choice for beginners. The main riff is simple and repetitive, and the chords are all basic open chords.

What is the tuning for Come As You Are?

Come As You Are is played in E flat tuning, which is achieved by tuning each string down a half step from standard tuning.

What are the chords in Come As You Are?

The chords in Come As You Are are G, C, D, Em, Am, and F.

What is the strumming pattern for Come As You Are?

The strumming pattern for Come As You Are is down, down, down, down, up, down.