bon jovi never say goodbye chord

2 min read 21-11-2024

Introduction:

Bon Jovi's "Never Say Goodbye" is a power ballad showcasing the band's signature sound. Learning this song is achievable, even for intermediate guitarists. This guide will break down the chords and provide tips for mastering this iconic track. We'll cover the main chords, strumming patterns, and offer some suggestions for enhancing your performance. Whether you're a seasoned guitarist or just starting, this guide will help you learn to play "Never Say Goodbye."

Understanding the Chords

The song primarily uses a relatively straightforward set of chords, making it accessible for many skill levels. The core chords are:

G major: 320003
C major: x32010
D major: xx0232
Em (E minor): 022000
Am (A minor): x02210

These are all open chords, meaning you don't need to bar any strings. Mastering these basic chords is crucial for playing along to "Never Say Goodbye."

Chord Variations and Inversions

While the main chords are simple, Bon Jovi often employs subtle variations and inversions to add texture and interest. Listen carefully to the original recording to capture the nuances. You might notice slight variations in fingering or the use of different voicings for some chords, especially during transitions.

Mastering the Strumming Pattern

The strumming pattern in "Never Say Goodbye" is relatively simple, but essential for capturing the song's feel. A common pattern involves a combination of downstrokes and upstrokes, often with a slight emphasis on the downstrokes. Experiment with different rhythms to find what sounds best to you.

Basic Pattern: Down-Down-Up-Down-Up-Down (repeat)

This is a starting point; the rhythm can be adjusted to suit your style and preference. The verses might use a slightly slower and more deliberate strumming pattern. The chorus could feature a more driving and powerful rhythmic approach.

Adding Dynamics

Don't just strum the same pattern repeatedly. Vary your strumming intensity to create dynamics. Softer strumming during verses can build the intensity leading into the powerful chorus.

Tips for Playing "Never Say Goodbye"

Listen Carefully: Listen to the original song multiple times to internalize the melody, rhythm, and feel. Pay close attention to the transitions between chords.
Practice Slowly: Start by practicing each chord individually, ensuring clear and clean transitions. Gradually increase your speed as your accuracy improves.
Use a Metronome: A metronome will help you develop a consistent rhythm and improve your timing.
Break Down Sections: Practice the song section by section – verse, chorus, bridge – before putting it all together.
Record Yourself: Recording yourself playing allows you to identify areas that need improvement.

Beyond the Basics: Adding Layers

Once you've mastered the basic chords and strumming pattern, you can explore ways to enhance your performance:

Fingerpicking: Experiment with fingerpicking patterns to add variation and texture to your playing.
Harmonies: If you're comfortable with multiple instruments, you might consider adding harmonies or layered guitar parts.

Conclusion

Learning "Never Say Goodbye" is a rewarding experience. With practice and dedication, you'll be able to play this iconic Bon Jovi classic. Remember to focus on accuracy and timing, and don't be afraid to experiment with different strumming patterns and dynamics to personalize your performance. This guide provides a solid foundation, but your own musical intuition will help you capture the essence of this timeless song. Now, grab your guitar and start playing!