Whats Going On Chords

Learning to play the guitar is an exciting journey, and one of the most rewarding aspects is mastering popular songs. If you're a fan of country music, you might be interested in learning the chords to "Whats Going On" by Marvin Gaye. This classic song, originally released in 1971, has a timeless appeal that resonates with musicians and listeners alike. In this blog post, we'll guide you through the chords and techniques needed to play "Whats Going On" on the guitar.

Table of Contents

Understanding the Song Structure

“Whats Going On” is a soulful and introspective song that features a simple yet effective chord progression. The song is structured in a way that makes it accessible for guitarists of various skill levels. Before diving into the chords, it’s essential to understand the basic structure of the song.

The song follows a typical verse-chorus structure, with a bridge that adds depth and emotion. The verse and chorus sections are relatively straightforward, making them ideal for beginners. The bridge, however, introduces some interesting chord changes that can challenge more advanced players.

Whats Going On Chords: The Basics

To play “Whats Going On” on the guitar, you’ll need to familiarize yourself with a few essential chords. The song primarily uses open chords, which are easy to learn and play. Here are the chords you’ll need:

G Major (G)
C Major ©
D Major (D)
Em (E minor)
A Major (A)
B Major (B)

These chords form the foundation of the song and are used throughout the verse, chorus, and bridge sections. Let’s break down the chord progression for each part of the song.

Verse Chords

The verse of “Whats Going On” follows a simple chord progression that repeats throughout the section. The progression is as follows:

G - D - Em - C

This progression is played in a loop, creating a smooth and melodic sound. To play the verse, strum each chord gently and transition smoothly between them. Pay attention to the timing and rhythm to capture the song’s soulful vibe.

Chorus Chords

The chorus of “Whats Going On” introduces a slight variation to the chord progression used in the verse. The progression for the chorus is:

G - D - Em - C - G - D - Em - C

Notice that the chorus repeats the same progression as the verse but adds an extra measure at the end. This slight variation helps to differentiate the chorus from the verse and adds a sense of resolution to the section.

Bridge Chords

The bridge of “Whats Going On” is where things get a bit more interesting. The chord progression for the bridge is:

A - B - C - D

This progression introduces some new chords and creates a sense of tension and release. To play the bridge, focus on smooth transitions between the chords and pay attention to the dynamics. The bridge is a great opportunity to showcase your guitar skills and add some emotional depth to your performance.

Strumming Pattern

In addition to the chords, the strumming pattern plays a crucial role in capturing the essence of “Whats Going On.” The song features a laid-back and groovy strumming pattern that complements the soulful melody. Here’s a basic strumming pattern you can use:

DD-DU-DU

This pattern consists of downstrokes (D) and upstrokes (U). The “DD” represents two downstrokes, followed by a downstroke and an upstroke (DU), and then another downstroke and upstroke (DU). Practice this pattern slowly at first, and gradually increase your speed as you become more comfortable with it.

Tips for Playing Whats Going On Chords

Playing “Whats Going On” on the guitar can be a rewarding experience, but it’s essential to approach it with the right mindset and techniques. Here are some tips to help you master the song:

Practice Slowly: Start by practicing the chords and strumming pattern slowly. Focus on accuracy and smooth transitions between chords. As you become more comfortable, gradually increase your speed.
Listen to the Original: Listen to the original recording of “Whats Going On” to get a feel for the song’s rhythm, dynamics, and overall vibe. Pay attention to how Marvin Gaye’s vocals and the instrumentation interact.
Experiment with Dynamics: The song’s emotional depth comes from its dynamics. Experiment with playing the chords softly and loudly to create contrast and add depth to your performance.
Use a Capo: If you find the chords too high to sing along with, consider using a capo. Placing a capo on the second or third fret can lower the pitch and make it easier to sing along while playing.

💡 Note: Remember that practice makes perfect. Don't rush through the learning process. Take your time to master each section of the song before moving on to the next.

Advanced Techniques

Once you’ve mastered the basic chords and strumming pattern, you can explore some advanced techniques to enhance your performance of “Whats Going On.” Here are a few ideas to consider:

Fingerpicking: Instead of strumming the chords, try fingerpicking them. This technique can add a delicate and intricate touch to your performance. Experiment with different fingerpicking patterns to find one that complements the song’s melody.
Harmonics: Incorporate harmonics into your playing to create a ethereal and dreamy sound. Harmonics can be played by lightly touching the strings at specific frets and plucking them gently. Experiment with different harmonics to add depth and texture to your performance.
Slide Guitar: If you have a slide, consider incorporating it into your performance. Slide guitar can add a unique and soulful sound to the song. Practice sliding between chords and notes to create a smooth and melodic effect.

These advanced techniques can take your performance of "Whats Going On" to the next level. Experiment with different techniques and find what works best for you.

Learning Resources

If you’re looking for additional resources to help you learn “Whats Going On” on the guitar, there are plenty of options available. Here are some resources you might find helpful:

Online Tutorials: Websites like YouTube offer a wealth of tutorials and lessons for learning guitar songs. Search for “Whats Going On guitar tutorial” to find step-by-step guides and demonstrations.
Guitar Tab Websites: Websites like Ultimate Guitar and Songsterr provide guitar tabs and chord sheets for a wide range of songs, including “Whats Going On.” These resources can be invaluable for learning the song’s chord progression and strumming pattern.
Guitar Apps: There are numerous guitar apps available that offer interactive lessons and tutorials. Apps like Yousician and Guitar Pro can help you learn the song in a structured and engaging way.

These resources can provide you with the guidance and support you need to master "Whats Going On" on the guitar. Explore different options to find what works best for your learning style.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

When learning to play “Whats Going On” on the guitar, it’s essential to be aware of common mistakes that can hinder your progress. Here are some pitfalls to avoid:

Rushing Through the Learning Process: Take your time to master each section of the song before moving on to the next. Rushing through the learning process can lead to sloppy playing and frustration.
Ignoring the Strumming Pattern: The strumming pattern is crucial for capturing the song’s soulful vibe. Pay attention to the rhythm and dynamics of the strumming pattern to create a cohesive and engaging performance.
Neglecting Practice: Consistent practice is key to mastering any song on the guitar. Make sure to set aside dedicated practice time to work on “Whats Going On” and other songs you’re learning.

By avoiding these common mistakes, you can ensure a smoother and more enjoyable learning experience.

Learning to play "Whats Going On" on the guitar is a rewarding journey that allows you to connect with a timeless classic. By mastering the chords, strumming pattern, and advanced techniques, you can create a soulful and engaging performance that captures the essence of the song. Whether you're a beginner or an experienced guitarist, "Whats Going On" offers a wealth of opportunities to improve your skills and express your musicality.

As you continue to practice and refine your performance, remember to enjoy the process and have fun. The joy of playing music comes from the journey as much as the destination. Embrace the challenges and celebrate your progress along the way.

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