Playing "Yellow" by Coldplay on Guitar
Coldplay's "Yellow" is a classic example of a modern pop-rock ballad, known for its simple yet emotive chord progression and mellow vibe. The original recording uses electric guitar with a bright, clean tone, but it translates beautifully to acoustic guitar, making it popular among beginners.
Chords and Progression
The song uses basic open chords:
G, D, C, and Em
These are all beginner-friendly chords. Practice switching smoothly between them, as the changes happen often, especially between G, D, and C.
Strumming Pattern
A simple pattern works well: Down-Down-Up-Up-Down-Up (D-D-U-U-D-U) for each measure. For a softer feel, use mostly downstrokes in the verses and open up with more upstrokes in the chorus.
Tips for Beginners
- Chord transitions:
Focus on clean transitions between G, D, and C. Keep your fingers close to the fretboard to minimize movement.
- Em chord:
This chord appears mainly in the chorus and bridge. Practice moving from D to Em, as it can feel awkward at first.
- Dynamics:
Play the verses softly and build up in the chorus for emotional effect.
Additional Techniques
Try light palm muting with your strumming hand during verses to mimic the song's mellow tone. Relax and let the melody guide your strumming for a natural feel.
With practice, you'll capture the heartfelt sound of "Yellow".
IntroG D C G
Verse 1G Look at theD stars
Look how theyC shine forG you
And everything youD do
Yeah, they were allC yellowG
I came aD long
I wrote aC song forG you
And all the things youD do
And it was calledC yellowG
Verse 2So then ID took my turn
Oh what aC thing to haveG done
And it was allD yellowC G
ChorusYourC skin, oh yeah, yourG skin and bones
D Turn intoEm something beauC tiful
Do you know, youG know I love you soD
You know I love you soC G
Verse 3G I swam aD cross
I jumped aC cross forG you
Oh what a thing toD do
'Cause you were allC yellowG
I drew aD line
I drew aC line forG you
Oh what a thing toD do
And it was allC yellowG
ChorusYourC skin, oh yeah, yourG skin and bones
D Turn intoEm something beauC tiful
Do you know, forG you I'd bleed myD self dry
For you I'd bleed myself dry
BridgeC It'sG true
Look how theyD shine forEm you
Look how theyC shine forG you
Look how theyD shine forEm you
Look how theyC shine forG you
Look how theyD shine forEm you
Look how theyC shine
OutroLook at theG stars
Look how theyD shine forC you
And all the things that youG do