10 Easy Steps to Play Come As You Are on Guitar

Photo of a guitar

Unleash the iconic grunge anthem, “Come As You Are,” from Nirvana’s legendary album, “Nevermind,” on your guitar with effortless precision. This classic rock masterpiece has captivated generations of music enthusiasts, its haunting melody and raw emotion resonating with hearts worldwide. Whether you’re an aspiring guitarist or a seasoned musician, join us as we delve into the intricacies of this timeless song, breaking down its captivating chords, distinctive rhythm, and evocative solo.

The journey begins with the opening power chord progression, setting the stage for the song’s brooding atmosphere. We’ll explore the interplay between open and barre chords, guiding you through the smooth transitions that define the track’s rhythm. As we progress, we’ll tackle the unforgettable melody, composed of haunting arpeggios and soaring single-note lines. The distinctive strumming pattern, both raw and rhythmic, will be deconstructed, empowering you to capture the essence of Nirvana’s grunge sound.

Finally, we’ll approach the song’s enigmatic solo, a blend of raw emotion and technical prowess. Through a step-by-step approach, we’ll break down the solo’s intricate phrasing, bending techniques, and expressive vibrato. As you master each segment, you’ll gain not only the ability to play “Come As You Are” but also a deeper appreciation for the brilliance of Kurt Cobain’s songwriting and guitar artistry. Prepare to strum, pluck, and solo your way into the heart of one of rock music’s most enduring classics.

How to Play Come As You Are on Guitar

Come As You Are by Nirvana is a grunge classic, and one of the most recognizable songs of the 1990s. The song is relatively easy to play on guitar, and can be learned by beginners with a little practice. Here are the basic steps on how to play Come As You Are:

  1. Tune your guitar to E standard tuning. This means tuning the strings from low to high as follows: E, A, D, G, B, e.
  2. Place your fingers on the following frets:
    • Index finger: 5th fret, 6th string (low E)
    • Middle finger: 7th fret, 5th string (A)
    • Ring finger: 8th fret, 4th string (D)
    • Pinky finger: 9th fret, 3rd string (G)
  3. Strum the strings in a down-up-down-up pattern.
  4. Continue strumming and sliding your fingers up and down the strings as follows:
    • Index finger: Slide from 5th to 7th fret on the low E string
    • Middle finger: Slide from 7th to 9th fret on the A string
    • Ring finger: Slide from 8th to 10th fret on the D string
    • Pinky finger: Slide from 9th to 11th fret on the G string
  5. Repeat steps 3-4 until you reach the end of the song.

People Also Ask

What is the best way to learn how to play Come As You Are?

The best way to learn how to play Come As You Are is to find a guitar teacher or take online guitar lessons. A teacher can help you learn the proper techniques and provide feedback on your progress.

What are some tips for playing Come As You Are?

Here are some tips for playing Come As You Are:

  • Use a light touch when strumming the strings.
  • Keep your fingers close to the frets when sliding them up and down the strings.
  • Don’t be afraid to make mistakes. Everyone makes mistakes when learning how to play guitar.

What are some other songs that sound similar to Come As You Are?

Here are some other songs that sound similar to Come As You Are:

  • Smells Like Teen Spirit by Nirvana
  • Lithium by Nirvana
  • In Bloom by Nirvana
  • Heart-Shaped Box by Nirvana