Are you ready to rock like a pro? Mastering the tuning for Nirvana’s ‘Come As You Are’ is a must-know for any guitarist looking to add some edge to their repertoire. This comprehensive guide will walk you through the tuning process, chord progression, and strumming techniques needed to nail this iconic song. From beginners to advanced players, this guide has something for everyone. So grab your guitar, tune up, and let’s get started on this journey to rock stardom!

Understanding the Importance of Tuning in Music

The role of tuning in song composition and performance

In music, tuning refers to the process of adjusting the pitch of a musical instrument to produce the desired sound. The role of tuning in song composition and performance is crucial as it can significantly impact the overall sound and feel of a song. Here are some ways in which tuning affects song composition and performance:

• Harmony: Tuning plays a significant role in creating harmonies between different instruments in a song. If the instruments are not tuned correctly, the harmonies may sound dissonant and unpleasant to the ear.
• Timbre: Timbre refers to the unique quality of a sound that distinguishes it from other sounds. Tuning affects the timbre of an instrument, and if the tuning is off, the instrument may sound dull or harsh.
• Melody: The melody of a song is often played on a single instrument, such as a guitar or piano. Proper tuning is essential to ensure that the melody sounds clear and true.
• Dynamics: Tuning also affects the dynamics of a song, such as the loudness and softness of different parts. If the instruments are not tuned correctly, the dynamics may be off, and the song may lack the desired impact.

Overall, proper tuning is crucial for creating a well-balanced and harmonious song. In the following sections, we will explore how to tune your guitar for Nirvana’s “Come As You Are” and provide tips for mastering the tuning.

The significance of tuning for Nirvana’s ‘Come As You Are’

Tuning is a crucial aspect of music-making that can greatly affect the overall sound and tone of a piece. In the case of Nirvana’s ‘Come As You Are’, the specific tuning used by the band plays a significant role in creating the grunge sound that is synonymous with the band’s music.

The song was recorded in drop D tuning, which involves lowering the sixth string on a guitar by a whole step. This creates a darker, heavier sound that is perfect for the grunge genre. The use of drop D tuning in ‘Come As You Are’ also allowed Nirvana’s lead guitarist, Kurt Cobain, to play power chords and riffs that helped to drive the song’s energetic rhythm and melody.

Additionally, the specific tuning used in the song influenced the overall tone and mood of the track. The lower tuning gave the song a more aggressive and raw sound, which was in line with the band’s image and the themes of the song’s lyrics. This, combined with the use of distortion and overdrive, helped to create the iconic grunge sound that has influenced countless bands since the song’s release.

In conclusion, the significance of tuning in Nirvana’s ‘Come As You Are’ cannot be overstated. The use of drop D tuning allowed the band to create a darker, heavier sound that was perfect for the grunge genre, and it played a major role in shaping the overall tone and mood of the song. Mastering this tuning is essential for any guitarist looking to capture the iconic sound of Nirvana’s ‘Come As You Are’.

The Tuning Used in ‘Come As You Are’

Dropped D tuning

Dropped D tuning is a popular alternative tuning used by many guitarists, including Kurt Cobain, to achieve a unique sound. It involves lowering the tuning of the sixth string from its standard E note to a D note. This creates a darker and more aggressive tone that is perfect for grunge and alternative rock music.

In ‘Come As You Are’, Nirvana uses dropped D tuning to create a powerful and intense sound that perfectly captures the song’s raw energy and emotion. The lower tuning also allows for easier playing of certain chords and riffs, making it easier for guitarists to replicate the song’s sound.

To achieve the dropped D tuning, guitarists can use a variety of methods, including using a guitar tuner or adjusting the strings manually. It’s important to ensure that all strings are properly tuned to achieve the correct sound and maintain the integrity of the song.

Once the tuning is achieved, guitarists can begin to experiment with different chords and riffs to replicate the song’s sound. The use of power chords and palm muting are particularly effective in creating the grunge sound that Nirvana is known for.

Overall, mastering the tuning for ‘Come As You Are’ is an essential step for any guitarist looking to replicate the song’s sound. With the right tuning and technique, even beginner guitarists can achieve a powerful and intense sound that captures the essence of Nirvana’s grunge rock.

Adjusting your guitar for dropped D tuning

If you want to play Nirvana’s ‘Come As You Are’ on guitar, you’ll need to tune your instrument to dropped D tuning. This involves lowering the pitch of your guitar’s sixth string by a whole step to D. Here’s how to do it:

1. First, make sure your guitar is in standard tuning (EADGBE).
2. Use a tuner or a tuning pedal to adjust the pitch of your strings. Start with the sixth string and turn the tuning peg until the string’s pitch drops to D.
3. Next, check the fifth string (A) and turn the tuning peg until it’s also a whole step lower, to A.
4. Move on to the fourth string (D) and lower its pitch by a whole step to D.
5. Finally, adjust the pitch of the third string (G) and second string (B) to match the notes D and A, respectively.

It’s important to note that dropped D tuning can put a lot of strain on your guitar’s neck and strings, so be sure to use a sturdy guitar and strong strings. Additionally, you may want to consider using a guitar with a wider neck and thicker strings to help with tuning stability. With a little practice and patience, you’ll be able to get your guitar sounding just like Nirvana’s classic track.

Techniques for Playing ‘Come As You Are’

Fingerpicking and strumming techniques

When it comes to playing Nirvana’s ‘Come As You Are’, there are a few essential fingerpicking and strumming techniques that every guitarist should know. In this section, we will discuss these techniques in detail.

Fingerpicking Techniques

Fingerpicking is an essential technique for playing ‘Come As You Are’. This technique involves using your fingers to pluck individual strings on the guitar, creating a unique sound that is perfect for this song. To get started with fingerpicking, you will need to learn the basic pattern used in the song.

The fingerpicking pattern for ‘Come As You Are’ is a combination of down and up strokes, played on the A, D, G, and B strings. The pattern starts with a downstroke on the A string, followed by an upstroke on the D string, and then a downstroke on the G string. From there, you will move to the B string for an upstroke, and then back to the A string for another downstroke.

To master this fingerpicking pattern, start by practicing it slowly and accurately. Pay close attention to your hand positioning and make sure that you are using your fingers to pluck the strings, rather than your fingernails. You can also try playing along with a recording of the song to get a feel for the rhythm and timing.

Strumming Techniques

In addition to fingerpicking, strumming is another essential technique for playing ‘Come As You Are’. This technique involves using a pick or your fingers to strum multiple strings on the guitar at once.

The strumming pattern for ‘Come As You Are’ is a downward stroke on the sixth string, followed by a downward stroke on the fifth string, and then a downward stroke on the fourth string. From there, you will move to the third string for a downward stroke, and then back to the sixth string for another downward stroke.

To master this strumming pattern, start by practicing it slowly and accurately. Pay close attention to your hand positioning and make sure that you are using a downward motion to strum the strings. You can also try playing along with a recording of the song to get a feel for the rhythm and timing.

By mastering these fingerpicking and strumming techniques, you will be well on your way to playing Nirvana’s ‘Come As You Are’ like a pro.

Power chords and riffing

Playing power chords and riffing are essential techniques for mastering Nirvana’s ‘Come As You Are’. Power chords are a staple of rock music and are used extensively in this song. They are played by playing the root note and the fifth of the chord together, creating a simple and powerful sound. To play power chords, you need to use the correct fingerings and position your hands correctly on the fretboard.

Here are some tips for playing power chords in ‘Come As You Are’:

• Use the correct fingerings: The most common power chord fingerings for ‘Come As You Are’ are the B5 power chord (played on the 5th fret of the A string) and the E5 power chord (played on the 7th fret of the A string).
• Use your thumb to fret the low E string: This will give you a fuller, more powerful sound.
• Use your fingers to fret the other strings: Use your index, middle, and ring fingers to fret the D, G, and B strings, respectively.
• Experiment with different chord variations: Try playing different power chord variations, such as adding the minor 7th or the major 7th, to add more depth and complexity to your playing.

Riffing is another essential technique for playing ‘Come As You Are’. Riffs are repeating sequences of notes that create a catchy and memorable melody. To play riffs in this song, you need to learn the correct rhythm and timing, and use the right picking and strumming techniques.

Here are some tips for playing riffs in ‘Come As You Are’:

• Learn the correct rhythm and timing: The riff in ‘Come As You Are’ is played in 4/4 time and has a medium-fast tempo. Practice playing along with a metronome to help you develop a steady rhythm.
• Use alternate picking: Alternate picking is a technique where you alternate between up and down strokes when playing guitar. This will give you a clean and articulate sound when playing riffs.
• Experiment with different rhythms and variations: Try playing the riff with different rhythms and variations to add more interest and depth to your playing.

Overall, mastering power chords and riffing is crucial for playing Nirvana’s ‘Come As You Are’ effectively. With practice and patience, you can develop the skills and techniques needed to play this iconic song with confidence and style.

Mastering the chord progressions

Nirvana’s ‘Come As You Are’ is a grunge anthem that has captivated audiences for decades. To truly master the song, it’s essential to understand the chord progressions that drive its melody. In this section, we’ll delve into the various techniques that guitarists can use to play ‘Come As You Are’ with confidence and finesse.

Understanding the Chord Progression

The main chord progression in ‘Come As You Are’ is based on the key of E minor. This progression consists of four chords: E minor, A, B, and C# minor. These chords are played in a repeating cycle throughout the song, creating a sense of tension and release that drives the melody forward.

To master this chord progression, it’s important to understand the function of each chord in the progression. E minor is the i chord, or the root chord, while A is the IV chord. B is the V chord, and C# minor is the vi chord. These chords work together to create a sense of harmonic movement and tension that drives the song forward.

Playing the Chords with Confidence

Once you understand the function of each chord in the progression, it’s time to start practicing playing them with confidence. This means developing a solid technique for changing chords quickly and smoothly, as well as learning how to strum each chord with the right rhythm and intensity.

One useful technique for mastering the chord progressions in ‘Come As You Are’ is to practice playing along with a recording of the song. This will help you get a feel for the rhythm and timing of the chord progression, as well as give you a chance to hear how each chord fits into the overall melody.

Experimenting with Chord Substitutions

While the standard chord progression in ‘Come As You Are’ is E minor, A, B, and C# minor, there are many ways to experiment with different chord substitutions. This can help you create a unique sound and style that reflects your own personal style and musical preferences.

For example, you could try substituting the C# minor chord with a D major chord, or experimenting with different variations of the E minor chord, such as E5 or E7. These chord substitutions can add depth and complexity to the chord progression, and help you create a more interesting and dynamic sound.

In conclusion, mastering the chord progressions in ‘Come As You Are’ is an essential part of becoming a skilled guitarist. By understanding the function of each chord in the progression, practicing your technique, and experimenting with different chord substitutions, you can create a unique and captivating sound that reflects your own personal style and musical preferences.

Common Chord Progressions in ‘Come As You Are’

I-IV-V progression

The I-IV-V progression is one of the most commonly used chord progressions in popular music, and it is featured prominently in Nirvana’s ‘Come As You Are’. This progression consists of four chords: the I (or tonic) chord, the IV (or subdominant) chord, and the V (or dominant) chord, which are played in a specific order.

The I-IV-V progression creates a sense of tension and release, and it is often used to create a sense of resolution at the end of a musical phrase or section. In ‘Come As You Are’, this progression is used throughout the song to create a sense of forward momentum and to provide a sense of resolution at key points in the song.

To master the tuning for this progression, guitarists should focus on getting a good tone from each of the four chords, and on using the right picking and strumming techniques to create a clean and cohesive sound. Additionally, guitarists should pay attention to the rhythm and timing of the chords, as this will help to create a sense of tension and release in the progression.

Here are some tips for mastering the I-IV-V progression in ‘Come As You Are’:

• Start by learning the basic chord shapes for the I, IV, and V chords. Practice strumming each chord four times before moving on to the next one.
• Pay attention to the rhythm and timing of the chords. Try to create a sense of tension and release by varying the length of each chord.
• Experiment with different picking and strumming techniques to create a clean and cohesive sound. Try using a combination of down and up strokes, and vary the intensity of your strumming to create a sense of dynamics.
• Practice playing the progression in different keys to get a feel for how it sounds in different contexts. This will help you to develop a better understanding of how the progression works and how to use it effectively in your own playing.

By mastering the I-IV-V progression in ‘Come As You Are’, guitarists can add a new dimension to their playing and develop a better understanding of how chord progressions work in popular music.

III-vi-II-V progression

The III-vi-II-V progression is a popular chord progression in jazz and popular music, and it can be found in many Nirvana songs, including “Come As You Are.” This progression is made up of four chords: the third, sixth, second, and fifth chords in a given key. In the key of C major, the III-vi-II-V progression would be C major, A minor, D minor, and G major, respectively.

The III-vi-II-V progression creates a sense of tension and release that is characteristic of blues and rock music. The first chord, the third, creates a sense of tension because it is not the main chord in the key. The second chord, the sixth, resolves this tension by moving to the dominant chord in the key. The third chord, the second, creates a sense of resolution by returning to the main chord in the key. Finally, the fourth chord, the fifth, creates a sense of tension again by moving to the main chord in the key.

In “Come As You Are,” the III-vi-II-V progression can be found in the verse and chorus sections of the song. The progression is played with power chords, which are fifth chords played on the guitar. To play the III-vi-II-V progression in “Come As You Are,” guitarists should use their index, middle, and ring fingers to play the root note of each chord on the low E string. They should use their thumb to play the bass note of each chord on the high E string. By mastering this progression, guitarists can add a new dimension to their playing and improve their understanding of music theory.

IV-V-vi-IV progression

The IV-V-vi-IV progression is a common chord progression found in many popular songs, including Nirvana’s ‘Come As You Are’. This progression is a series of four chords that are played in a specific order, creating a harmonic structure that is both memorable and effective.

In the context of ‘Come As You Are’, the IV-V-vi-IV progression can be found in the chorus section of the song. The progression begins with the fourth chord, D, played on the fourth fret of the A string. This chord is then followed by the fifth chord, A, played on the fifth fret of the A string. The third chord, E, is then played on the seventh fret of the A string, creating a ii-V-I progression. Finally, the progression concludes with the fourth chord, D, played on the fourth fret of the A string once again.

The IV-V-vi-IV progression is a versatile chord progression that can be used in a variety of musical contexts. It is often used in pop and rock music, as it creates a sense of resolution and stability. By mastering this progression, guitarists can add a new level of complexity and depth to their playing, allowing them to create more interesting and engaging musical arrangements.

In addition to the IV-V-vi-IV progression, there are several other common chord progressions found in ‘Come As You Are’, including the E7-A-B-C progression and the G-D-C-G progression. By understanding and mastering these progressions, guitarists can add a new level of depth and complexity to their playing, allowing them to better understand and replicate the iconic sound of Nirvana’s ‘Come As You Are’.

Practice Tips and Additional Resources

Warm-up exercises and guitar practice routines

As a guitarist, warming up before practicing or performing is essential to prepare your hands, fingers, and muscles for the task ahead. Here are some warm-up exercises and guitar practice routines that can help you get ready to play Nirvana’s ‘Come As You Are’:

Finger stretching exercises

• Holding a note: Place your fingers on the fretboard and hold a note for a few seconds, then release. Repeat this exercise for each finger on each hand.
• Finger bending: Place your fingers on the fretboard and bend them back and forth. Repeat this exercise for each finger on each hand.
• Finger tapping: Tap your fingers on the fretboard in different patterns and speeds.

Chord exercises

• Chord transition drills: Practice transitioning between different chords quickly and smoothly. Start with simple chord progressions and gradually increase the difficulty level.
• Power chord drills: Practice playing power chords in different positions and with different rhythms.

Scales and arpeggios

• Scales: Practice playing major and minor scales in different positions and with different rhythms.
• Arpeggios: Practice playing arpeggios in different positions and with different rhythms.

Fingerpicking exercises

• Fingerpicking patterns: Practice playing different fingerpicking patterns, such as Travis picking or alternating bass.
• Fingerstyle exercises: Practice playing fingerstyle guitar by combining different techniques, such as thumb-picking and finger-picking.

These warm-up exercises and guitar practice routines can help you prepare your fingers, hands, and muscles for playing Nirvana’s ‘Come As You Are’. Remember to practice regularly and to vary your practice routines to keep your playing fresh and interesting.

Online resources and tutorials for learning ‘Come As You Are’

There are a variety of online resources and tutorials available for guitarists looking to learn Nirvana’s “Come As You Are.” These resources range from beginner-friendly lessons to more advanced tutorials, and include a mix of video, audio, and written content. Some popular options include:

• JustinGuitar’s “Nirvana’s Come As You Are” lesson series: This comprehensive video series covers everything from tuning and chords to strumming and soloing, making it a great resource for guitarists of all skill levels.
• GuitarLessons.com’s “Come As You Are” tutorial: This in-depth tutorial includes both a written breakdown of the song’s chords and a video lesson on how to play the song’s main riff.
• Guitar Control’s “Come As You Are” lesson: This video lesson focuses on teaching the song’s main riff and chords, and includes tips on how to play the song in different keys.
• Songsterr’s “Come As You Are” tablature: This website offers a wide variety of tablature for Nirvana’s songs, including “Come As You Are.” Guitarists can use the site’s built-in tools to practice the song and learn new techniques.

By utilizing these online resources, guitarists can gain a deeper understanding of the song’s structure and technique, and develop their own unique style. Whether you’re a beginner looking to learn your first Nirvana song or an experienced player looking to improve your skills, there’s no shortage of online resources available to help you master “Come As You Are.”

Jamming with other musicians and attending workshops

Jamming with other musicians and attending workshops can be an invaluable way to improve your skills and deepen your understanding of Nirvana’s music. Here are some tips to help you make the most of these opportunities:

• Seek out local jam sessions and open mic nights where you can play with other musicians. This is a great way to get feedback on your playing and learn from more experienced players.
• Attend workshops and clinics led by professional guitarists who specialize in Nirvana’s music. These events can provide you with detailed instruction and insights into the band’s techniques and styles.
• Connect with other Nirvana fans and guitarists online through forums and social media groups. This can be a great way to share tips and techniques, and to find others who are interested in learning and playing Nirvana’s music.
• Finally, be open to experimenting and trying new things. While it’s important to learn and master the techniques used in Nirvana’s music, don’t be afraid to put your own spin on things and develop your own unique style. This is what makes music so exciting and rewarding, and it’s what will help you stand out as a guitarist.

FAQs

1. What is the tuning for Nirvana’s ‘Come As You Are’?

The standard tuning for Nirvana’s ‘Come As You Are’ is Drop D tuning, which is D-A-D-G-B-D. This means that you will need to tune your guitar’s sixth string down to D and the rest of the strings will be tuned accordingly.

2. How do I tune my guitar to Drop D tuning?

To tune your guitar to Drop D tuning, you will need to loosen the strings and then tighten them up to the following notes: D-A-D-G-B-D. You can use a digital tuner or a tuning pedal to help you achieve the correct pitch.

3. What kind of guitar should I use for playing ‘Come As You Are’?

Any guitar with a thick neck and heavy strings will work well for playing ‘Come As You Are’ in Drop D tuning. A Les Paul or a SG guitar with humbuckers will give you a good, aggressive tone that is well-suited to the song’s grunge sound.

4. What are some common chord progressions used in ‘Come As You Are’?

The song features a simple chord progression of D-A-G-B-D-A-D. This progression is repeated throughout the song and is a great starting point for learning how to play ‘Come As You Are’ on guitar.

5. How do I achieve the signature ‘grunge’ sound on ‘Come As You Are’?

To achieve the signature grunge sound on ‘Come As You Are’, you can use a distortion pedal to add grit and overdrive to your guitar tone. Experiment with different pedals and settings to find the sound that works best for you.

6. Can I play ‘Come As You Are’ without a bass guitar?

While a bass guitar is not strictly necessary for playing ‘Come As You Are’, it can be helpful to have one in order to fill out the low end of the song’s sound. If you don’t have a bass guitar, you can try playing the root notes of the chords on your guitar’s low E string to create a similar effect.

7. What is the fast part near the end of ‘Come As You Are’ called?

The fast part near the end of ‘Come As You Are’ is called the “Bridge”. It features a descending bass line and a fast, syncopated guitar riff. This section of the song is a great opportunity to show off your technical skills and add some flair to your performance.

Nirvana – Come As You Are – Guitar Lesson – How to Play on guitar – Kurt Cobain