The First Four Chords Every Guitarist Learns
The first time you pick up a 6-string, you’re most likely going to learn these four chords first: G, Em, C, and D. These chords dominate as some of the most used chords on the guitar, especially for beginners. There is a good reason that most of us started our guitar journey on these four primary chords in the key of G. They are a powerful tool! You can get around almost any pop song with these chords and a capo.
Just because these are typically the first chords you learn, there is nothing amateur about these chords. These are workhorse chords that everyone from hobbyists to professionals use regularly.
Of course, we don’t want to settle for what is easy. Every layer of experience and skill will pay off in our musical development. Remember to always keep pushing forward and learning as much as you can!
Getting Started
Before jumping into these first chords, we need to understand that we are learning these chords in the context of the key of G. Chords have variations (colors), but all of these variations do not work the same in each key. For example, you could change D to Dsus. This works in the key of G, however, Csus does not directly work in the key of G.
We do not have to know all the details yet, but it is essential to keep in mind that these chords are no longer free-floating sounds. These four chords fit into a bigger structure. For now, we can follow the guidelines given and learn to train our ear and theory knowledge later.
G Chord
The G chord is the one chord (tonic) in the key of G. It is a major chord that feels like home base. It is a great chord to start and end a song on. The other chords will take us on a journey away from home base.
Em Chord
The Em chord is the minor six chord (submediant) in the key of G. It is a minor chord that feels like an alternative home base for darker/sadder tones. It is a perfect chord to create a heavier or more serious emotion.
D Chord
The D chord is the five chord (dominant) in the key of G. It is a major chord that often leads us to the one chord. It is a bright chord with a firm resolution, so it is a great song to use second to last if you want to end strong. If you use it first or second, it creates motion.
C Chord
The C chord is the four chord (subdominant) in the key of G. It is a major chord with a softer landing than the one chord. It complements the one chord and the five chords well. Traditionally the ending of a song might move from the four chord as the third to last chord, to the five chord second to last, and ultimately to the one chord.
Developing OUR skills further
Take the time to practice each one of these chords individually. When you feel that you have mastered their sound, move on to changing chords. Try to figure out which chords are the most challenging to switch between, and spend extra time on those transitions.
When you have a good grasp of these chords and changes, you can start experimenting with rearranging the chord progressions (order of chords in time). Try these progressions out below:
There are plenty more combinations, so make up your own and let me know in the comments what your favorite chord or chord progression is so far!
Interested in learning more about these guitar chords, their variations, and more? Sign up for your first free lesson here. I can’t wait to help you on your musical journey!
