How to Play “Wanted” by Hunter Hayes on Guitar
Guitar enthusiasts often find themselves looking for new and exciting songs to master. One such song that has captured the hearts of many guitarists is “Wanted” by Hunter Hayes. With its catchy melody and heartfelt lyrics, this song has become a favorite among guitar players of all skill levels. In this article, we will guide you through the process of learning how to play “Wanted” by Hunter Hayes on guitar, starting from the basics and gradually advancing to more complex techniques.
Understanding the Song Structure
Before diving into the guitar tabs and chords, it’s essential to understand the song structure of “Wanted.” The song is primarily in the key of G major and follows a simple structure of verses, a pre-chorus, a chorus, and a bridge. Familiarizing yourself with this structure will help you better understand the transitions between different sections of the song.
Basic Chords and Progression
The key to playing “Wanted” lies in mastering the basic chords and progression. The song primarily uses the following chords: G major, D major, C major, and A minor. Here’s a brief overview of how these chords are used in the song:
– Verses: G major, D major, C major, A minor
– Pre-chorus: G major, D major, C major
– Chorus: G major, D major, C major, A minor
– Bridge: G major, D major, C major, A minor
To play these chords, follow these simple guidelines:
– G major: Use a regular G major chord shape on the first fret.
– D major: Use a regular D major chord shape on the second fret.
– C major: Use a regular C major chord shape on the third fret.
– A minor: Use a regular A minor chord shape on the fifth fret.
Strumming Pattern
The strumming pattern for “Wanted” is relatively straightforward. For the verses and chorus, use a simple down-strum followed by an up-strum on the beat. Here’s a basic strumming pattern:
– Down, up, down, up, down, up, down, up (repeat)
For the bridge, you can add a few extra strums to create a more dynamic sound:
– Down, up, down, up, down, up, down, up, down, up, down, up (repeat)
Adding Techniques
Once you’ve mastered the basic chords and strumming pattern, you can start adding some techniques to enhance your playing. Here are a few suggestions:
– Palm muting: Palm muting the strings can create a more rhythmic and punchy sound.
– Alternate picking: Practice alternate picking to create a smoother and more polished sound.
– Slide: Add a slide to certain notes to create a more expressive and soulful sound.
Practice and Progress
Learning to play “Wanted” by Hunter Hayes on guitar takes time and practice. Don’t be discouraged if you don’t get it right the first time. Keep practicing, and you’ll gradually improve your skills. As you become more comfortable with the song, you can experiment with different techniques and variations to make your playing unique.
In conclusion, learning how to play “Wanted” by Hunter Hayes on guitar is a rewarding experience. By understanding the song structure, mastering the basic chords and progression, and incorporating various techniques, you’ll be able to play this beautiful song with confidence. Happy playing!
