How to Play “Let Me Be Myself” on Guitar
Are you a guitar enthusiast looking to add a classic rock tune to your repertoire? “Let Me Be Myself” by the legendary band Journey is a fantastic choice. This song is not only catchy but also features some challenging guitar parts that will test your skills. In this article, we’ll guide you through the process of learning how to play “Let Me Be Myself” on guitar, covering the essential chords, rhythm, and techniques you’ll need to master this iconic track.
Understanding the Song Structure
Before diving into the guitar parts, it’s crucial to understand the song’s structure. “Let Me Be Myself” is a typical rock song with a straightforward structure. The song follows a verse-chorus pattern, with a pre-chorus section that leads into the chorus. Here’s a breakdown of the song’s structure:
– Pre-Chorus: This section introduces the main melody and typically consists of two bars.
– Chorus: The chorus is the most memorable part of the song and is repeated throughout the song.
– Verse: The verse section features the main guitar riff and is repeated several times before transitioning into the pre-chorus.
Essential Chords
To play “Let Me Be Myself” on guitar, you’ll need to be familiar with the following chords:
– E minor (Em)
– G major (G)
– A minor (Am)
– B major (B)
– C major (C)
These chords are used throughout the song and will be the foundation for your guitar playing. Make sure to practice these chords before moving on to the guitar parts.
Playing the Guitar Parts
Now that you’re familiar with the chords, let’s dive into the guitar parts for “Let Me Be Myself”:
– Pre-Chorus: Begin by playing the E minor chord for two bars. Then, transition to the G major chord for the next two bars. This pattern will repeat throughout the pre-chorus section.
– Chorus: The chorus features a series of power chords, which are simple two-note chords. Start by playing the E minor power chord (Em) for two bars, followed by the G major power chord (G) for two bars. Repeat this pattern throughout the chorus.
– Verse: The verse features a distinctive guitar riff that combines both chords and single notes. Here’s a step-by-step guide to playing the verse riff:
1. Play the E minor chord for two bars.
2. Transition to the G major chord for the next two bars.
3. Play a single note on the G string (3rd fret) for one bar.
4. Transition back to the G major chord for the next two bars.
5. Play a single note on the A string (5th fret) for one bar.
6. Repeat this pattern throughout the verse.
Practicing and Improving
Once you’ve learned the guitar parts for “Let Me Be Myself,” it’s essential to practice regularly to improve your playing. Here are a few tips to help you master this song:
– Start by playing the song slowly and focus on getting the chords and rhythm right.
– Gradually increase the tempo as you become more comfortable with the song.
– Experiment with different strumming patterns and techniques to add variety to your playing.
– Listen to the original recording of the song to get a sense of the dynamics and feel of the song.
By following these tips and practicing consistently, you’ll be well on your way to mastering “Let Me Be Myself” on guitar. Enjoy the journey and happy playing!
