For guitar players and musicians alike, Damien Rice stands as a masterclass in the art of songwriting with unique songs like The Blowers Daughter and Cannonball. He’s definitely one of my favorite artists.

Damien goes to the deepest core of his soul and you hear it right away. This is as authentic as it gets.

He knows how to craft a great song with beautiful melodic phrases accompanied by delicate and raw rhythm guitar playing. It’s all there, in each and every song.

I’ve listed the top 10 of songs that really stand out for me. I hope you enjoy them as much as I do.

There are links to the videos, tablature and chords so you can pick your favorite and learn to play it, study it and master it. There’s a lot to learn from.

Remember, Practice and you’ll become a better guitar player. It’s that simple!

What are the Best Damien Rice Songs to Play on Guitar

1 – Cannonball

Cannonball is one of Damien Rice’s best known songs. It has a really cool guitar phrase that is played throughout the verses and starts with the capo on the 6th fret.

Once you got this phrase under your belt you’re hooked and wanna keep playing it over and over again.

The intro theme is more suited for intermediate guitar players, but of course you can simplify the song by just playing the chords so you can sing along with it.

The chords for the verses are: Em7 – Cadd9 – G – G/F# (3 times) and then Am7 – C/B – C – D. For the chorus Damien plays G – Cadd9 – D (3 times) ending with Am7 – Cadd9 – D – Em7.

Chords or Tabs

2 – Delicate

The song “Delicate” is played in the key of C with capo on the 5th fret using hammer-ons with the second (middle) finger on the C and Fmaj7 chords to create beautiful chord harmonies.

The combination of playful chord progressions and vocal melodies makes this a one of my favorite songs to play and sing.

Chords and Tabs

3 – The Blowers Daughter

This is the song where it all started. The song cut’s through your musical soul if you take the time to listen to with undivided attention. This masterpiece is unique and Rice at his best when he plays it live. Definitely check it out some his live performances on Youtube.

Chords

4 – Amie

The song “Amie” is an acoustic emotional folk ballad played on his beautiful sounding Lowden guitar. It’s an easy to play guitar song that could move you to tears because of the way he plays and sings it.

In the video above he explains the story behind the song, which paradoxically is quite hilarious.

The Song’s title  “Amie” means friend in French which gives it a dual meaning. The song is played with the capo on the 7th fret.

For the verses he plays G  – Gadd9/F# – Em7 – C – Am7  – Em – C – D and the progression for the chorus is Em – C – D – G  – C – Bm – Am7 – C – D.

Chords

5 – The Box

After many years of silence Damien Rice came out with a new album “My Favourite Faded Fantasy” with some new crafted treasures equipped with beautiful chord harmonies and lyrical melodies. The Box is one of those songs, so simple , elegant and so powerful.

Although we’re talking guitars here, the lyrics of this song are absolutely spot on. Everyone can find something that resonates, whether it’s relationship wise, a job, a phase, a feeling, or just life itself. Moreover, it’s a really nice and simple song to play and sing that you will absolutely enjoy.

The chords for the verses are G – D – Em7 – Bm and for the chorus Am(add9) – Em7 (4 times).

Chords

6 – Coconut Skins

Coconut Skins is an uptempo acoustic song that is really fun to play using the famous Wonderwall chords as I like to call them. The song uses one chord progression throughout the entire song starting out gently and building up to an exploding climax. Try this one, you’ll love it.

Coconut skins: /  Em7    /    %   /   %   /   Em7  Gadd9\F#   /  G   /  %   /  %  /   G   Gadd9\F#  / 

Chords

7 – Me, My Yoke and I

Me, My, Yoke and I is one of the lesser known songs by Damien, but it’s oh so good. It’s got a crazy rocking slide riff that will crank up your amp. It’s really fun to play!

It starts with strumming an Am chord twice and then your second finger on the D-string from that chord will slide to the 10th fret. You do that a couple of times then you quickly jump to a G chord and then strum the F chord twice where you third finger on the A-string from the F-chord will slide to the 10th fret. This is the main riff that is played throughout the song.

Chords or Tabs

8 – Colour Me In

Colour me is a tender vulnerable love song with an absolutely beautiful melody. As often with Damien’s songs he starts out softly and gradually builds up to a climax to bring in those deep heart-felt emotions.

The chords for the verses are C – F – G – C – F – G – Am – C – F – G. The chords for chorus are C – F – G – C – Am – G – Am – C – F – G

He spices up the chords with sus2 and sus4 chords to add some flavor and uses a combination of strumming and finger style for the right hand. Check out the live version of the song from the Guardian Sessions.

Chords or Tabs

9 – Volcano

Volcano is a song with a really great groove and musical vibe to it. Along with his partner Lisa Hannigan they make for a perfect duo in this song bringing out the absolute best.

The song has a nice chord rhythm riff that is mainly playing the chord progression Am – G – F for the verses and Am – G – F – G for the chorus. 

You can also play the chords more intermediate style by playing the Am as an open shape chord starting on the 5 fret (x77500) then going to the G6 (x55430) and then Fmaj7 (x33210)

Chords or Tabs

10 – The Animals Were Gone

This is a georgous melancholic song that involves a nice easy fingerpicking pattern that is really doable. Perfect for beginner guitar players, but just as much fun for guitar players of any level, cause in the end it’s all about the song.

The chord progression for the verses is : G – C – Am – D – G – Em – Am – B7 and for the chorus the chords are: Am – G – Am – G and you play that four times.

Chords or Tabs

If you liked this post you might also like:

Best Neil Young Guitar Songs

Best Ryan Adams Guitar Songs

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Many years ago I searched for “Damien Rice similar artists” on Last.fm and suddenly I heard a song called “La Cienega Just Smiled”. The song and the voice caught my attention, so I looked up the artist and found out his name was “Ryan Adams”.

I started diving into his songs and a whole new world opened up for me, I couldn’t stop listening and playing his songs. I was absolutely sold, and I still am. My guitar students have to learn a lot of Ryan Adams songs haha!

For me Ryan Adams has the whole package. A magnificent voice, rough and tender rhythm guitar, damn riffs, heavenly harmonies and a beautiful mix of alternative country and rock music.

It’s staggering I haven’t written this blog post before but now it’s time! I’ve created a Top 28 Best Ryan Adams guitar songs that give you a pretty good introduction and insight into the awesome catalog of brilliant songs this man has written and performed over the years.

I’ve included the chords and tabs to the songs below so you can start improving your guitar playing, your songwriting skills and learn from the absolute best.

Have a wonderful time and thank me later ;)

Oh My sweet Carolina

“Oh My Sweet Carolina” is one of Ryan’s most cherished songs, its emotional folk-rock ballad released in 2000 as part of his debut solo album “Heartbreaker.”

For the backing vocals, he reached out to Emmylou Harris (one of Ryan Adams’ heroes) who provided her angelic voice, adding the perfect touch that made the song complete.

Adams wrote the song while living in New York City, far away from his Southern roots. Feeling the pull of his homeland, he penned the song as a form of catharsis and a way to express his yearning for the familiar landscapes and memories of North Carolina.

The song is in the key of C major, with a 4/4 time signature and a gentle tempo around 75 BPM. The song is a mix of finger style and soft strumming using hammer-ons and pull-offs on the C chord. The chords in the song are C, F, G, G, Am and C/G.

Do I wait

“Do I Wait” is a soulful track (one of my top 3 favorite go-to-songs to play and sing) released on October 11, 2011 on the 13th studio album Ashes & Fire, .” Written during a time of personal reflection, it showcases Adams’ songwriting prowess and emotional depth.

The song was recorded with producer Glyn Johns at Sunset Sound Studios in Hollywood California.

The key of the song is G major, in a 4/4 time with a moderate tempo around 100 BPM. The song starts with an absolutely gorgeous chord-riff that is also played during the verses and then moves on to a chorus with an incredible vocal melody line supported with an easy chord progression that fits perfectly.

The chords in the song are C, G, Am, Em, D, C/B. providing a melodious backdrop to Adams’ introspective lyrics and soulful delivery.

Come pick me up

“Come Pick Me Up” is a cool song and made its debut in 2000 as part of his album “Heartbreaker.”

The song is known for its heartfelt and emotionally charged lyrics. It’s a melancholic and somewhat desperate plea for comfort and companionship during a time of heartache. The song’s chorus, “Come pick me up, take me out, fuck me up; steal my records, screw all my friends,” captures the raw and honest expression of pain and vulnerability.

The song is in the key of C major, maintaining a 4/4 time signature with a tempo around 74 BPM. Chords used in the song include G, Em7, C, Csus2, Csus2/B, D and G/B, which combine to form the bittersweet backdrop for Adams’ heartfelt lyrics and soulful melodies.

When the stars go blue

“When the Stars Go Blue” was released in 2001 on his album “Gold.” It’s a song that beautifully explores themes of love and longing.

The song was also covered by the Irish band “The Corrs and Bono from U2.

The song is in the key of G major, adhering to a 4/4 time signature with a moderate tempo around 120 BPM. The strumming pattern predominantly plays down-up-down-up creating a gentle and rhythmic flow for the song. There are only four chords in the song: Am, C, G and D.

If I am a stranger

“If I Am a Stranger” was released in 2005 as a mid-tempo song on the album “Cold Roses“, but re-released in 2007 on the album “Easy tiger” as a beautiful slow acoustic song where the guitar-riff really stands out.

In 2015 the song was recorded as a live version on the album “Live at Carnegie Hall”, which is my personal favorite recording of the song.

The song is in Gm with a 4/4 time signature with a tempo around 85 BPM. The strumming pattern involves a combination strumming and finger style. The song is played with the capo on the 3rd fret playing the following chords: Em, G6, C for the verses and Dadd4, Em, C, C/B and G for the chorus.

Lucky now

“Lucky Now” is a single that was released in 2011 as part of his album “Ashes & Fire.”

The song starts out with a beautiful intro playing the chords C, F and G using hammer-ons and pull-offs in the typical Ryan fashion.

The song is in the key of C major, playing in a 4/4 time with a tempo of around 95 BPM. It’s a simple 4-chord song consisting of C, F, G and Am.

Dirty rain

“Dirty Rain” is a great song with a bluesy feel. It was released in 2011 on his album “Ashes & Fire.”

The song was inspired by a real-life experience that Ryan Adams had while he was living in New York City. In 2011, Hurricane Irene hit the city and caused widespread flooding and destruction. Ryan Adams said that he wrote “Dirty Rain” as a way of processing his emotions after the storm.

The song is in the key of E major, maintaining a 4/4 time signature with a tempo around 92 BPM. Chords used in the song are E, A, B, C#m and G#m.

Invisible Riverside

“Invisible Riverside” is a beautiful song by Ryan Adams from his 2011 album “Ashes & Fire.”

The song was inspired by English singer-songwriter Laura Marling’s second album, “I Speak Because I Can”. After former producer Ethan Johns sent Adams a copy of the album, he threw out 80% of what he had written for “Ashes & Fire” and started over. Adams has said that Marling’s music “messed him up” in the best possible way, and that he was inspired to write “Invisible Riverside” after seeing her perform.

The song is in the key of D major, with a 4/4 time signature and a tempo of around 75 BPM. The chords for the song are D, C, G, A, Am, Fmaj7, Am/B, F and Em.

Ashes and fire

“Ashes and Fire” is a gorgeous blues-soulful composition released in 2011 on his album of the same name. The song is about a person who is trying to come to terms with the end of a relationship. The lyrics describe the person’s feelings of sadness and regret as they reflect on the past.

The song is in the key of Bb major, maintaining a 4/4 time signature with a moderate tempo around 80 BPM. The song is played with the capo on the 3rd fret using the chords G, G6sus4, C, Cadd9 and Em.

Firecracker

“Firecracker” is a catchy track written. It was released in 2001 on his album “Gold.” The songwriting process for this tune reflects Adams’ ability to blend rock and folk influences into an infectious and memorable song.

The song is in the key of Bb major, maintaining a 4/4 time signature with a lively tempo around 145 BPM. The guitar rhythm predominantly involves a down-down-up-up-down-up strumming pattern. The song is played with the capo on the 3rd fret, playing the chords G, C, D, A, Em, Am and Bm.

16 days

“16 Days” is a song by the band Whiskeytown, which Ryan Adams formed before pursuing his solo career. The song was released in 1997 as part of the album “Stranger’s Almanac.”

It’s one of the early songs that he still performs today on his live shows. The song is in the key of G major, maintaining a 4/4 time signature with a moderate tempo around 84 BPM. The chords used in the song are G, F, C and Am.

Everybody knows

“Everybody Knows” is a poignant song by singer-songwriter Ryan Adams, co-written with guitarist Neal Casal. It was released in 2007 on his album “Easy Tiger.” This track exemplifies Adams’ ability to blend elements of folk and rock, creating a raw and emotionally charged sound.

Although “Everybody Knows” didn’t make significant chart appearances, it’s appreciated by fans for its introspective lyrics and passionate performance.

The song is in the key of F major, played with the capo on the 3rd fret using the chords D, A7sus4, C, F, Am, G, D7 and Cadd9.

Two

“Two” is a beautiful touching ballad from his 2007 album “Easy Tiger”. The lyrics describe the singer’s desire to be close to the object of their affection, which in this case is drugs.

The song is in the key of A major, maintaining a 4/4 time signature with a tempo around 74 BPM. The capo is on the 2nd fret playing G, C, D and Em.

Desire

“Desire” is a captivating song that was released in 2002 on his album “Demolition.”

The song is in the key of G major, maintaining a 4/4 time signature with a moderate tempo around 80 BPM. The song is played with the capo on the 5th fret using the chords D, G, Bm, Bm/A, Em7, G/F# and A.

New York, New York

“New York, New York” is an iconic song written and performed by the versatile singer-songwriter Ryan Adams. Released in 2001 on his album “Gold,” the song was written as a tribute to New York City, where Ryan Adams lived for several years.

The lyrics mention several lower Manhattan geographic references, including the intersection of Avenue A and 10th Street, Houston Street, and Avenue B. In the song, the singer reflects on his life in New York and a failed love affair.

The music video for “New York, New York” was filmed on September 7, 2001, just four days before the September 11 attacks on the World Trade Center. The video features Ryan Adams performing in front of the Manhattan skyline from Brooklyn. The Twin Towers can be prominently seen in the background. As a result of the attacks, a message was placed at the end of the video dedicating it to those who lost their lives and to “those who worked to save them”.

The song is in the key of A major, maintaining a 4/4 time signature with a moderate tempo around 96 BPM. The song is played with the capo on the 2nd fret using the chords G, G6sus4, D and C.

La Cienega just smiled

“La Cienega Just Smiled” is a song, released in 2000 as part of his album “Heartbreaker.” The song was written as a homage to Los Angeles, where Ryan Adams lived for several years. The lyrics mention several geographic references in the city, including La Cienega Boulevard and Melrose Avenue.

The song is in the key of G# major, maintaining a 4/4 time signature with a moderate tempo around 84 BPM. The song is played with the capo on the 3rd fret, using the chords F, G, C, C/B and Am.

Wild flowers

“Wild Flowers” is a soulful song released in 2000 on his album “Heartbreaker” often performed live with guitar player and band member Neil Casal. The song was written as a tribute to Tom Petty, who was one of Ryan Adams’ biggest musical influences. 

The song uses a combination of fingerpicking and strumming. The song is in key of D major and consists of the chords D, Dsus2, D9, D/F#, Gmaj7, G6, A, Em7, Gm7, Em, G, Dm, C, F#, Bm, Em/F# and F#m.

Rosalie come and go

“Rosalie Come and Go” is a song by Ryan Adams, released in 2001 on his album “Gold.” The song has a real nice Rolling Stones / Black Crowes kind a vibe to it.

The song is in the key of E major, maintaining a 4/4 time signature with a tempo around 120 BPM. The Chords of the song are E, D, A, Esus4 and Fm.

To be young (is to be sad, is to be high)

“To Be Young (Is to Be Sad, Is to Be High)” is an alternative country rock song that was released in 2000 on his album “Heartbreaker.” This is the only song on his debut solo album that was co-written with guitarist David Rawlings.

The song is in the key of C major, maintaining a 4/4 time signature with a moderate tempo around 108 BPM. The strumming pattern primarily involves a mix of downstrokes and upstrokes, creating a rhythmic and engaging feel that complements the song’s youthful and carefree spirit. The chords of the song are G, C, C7, D, Em, Am, Em9, GMaj7/B, Dadd4/F#, Gmaj7 and C/B.

My winding wheel

“My Winding Wheel” is a soulful song written by Ryan Adams. It was released in 2000 as part of his debut solo album, “Heartbreaker.”

During the recording, Adams used his Gibson J-45 acoustic guitar and a vintage microphone that he had purchased at a flea market just before the session.

The song is in the key of G# major, maintaining a 4/4 time signature with a moderate tempo around 74 BPM. Chords used in the song encompass Am, G, C, Bm, D and C/B, playing it with the capo on the 1st fret.

Let it ride

“Let It Ride” is a captivating song by the talented singer-songwriter Ryan Adams, co-written with his band The Cardinals. It was released in 2005 as part of the album “Cold Roses.”

During the recording of “Let It Ride,” Ryan Adams and The Cardinals were working with legendary producer Tom Schick. The song starts out with a beautiful finger style guitar intro that is the main guitar theme for the song.

The song is in Dm, with a 4/4 time signature and a moderate tempo around 82 BPM. The song is played with the capo on the 5th fret and the chords for the song are Am, F, C and G.

Magick

“Magick” is a lively and energetic song by Ryan Adams and The Cardinals. Released in 2008 on his album “Cardinology,” and known for its rock and roll spirit.

The song is played in Bm, in 4/4 time with a tempo around 90 BPM. The rhythm primarily involves a down-down-up-up-down-up strumming pattern. The chords used in the song are Bm, D A, E, B and G.

Mockingbird

“Mockingbird” is a song by Ryan Adams, released in 2005 on his album “Cold Roses.” The album was recorded with his band “The Cardinals” and was well received by critics and fans alike.

The song itself is a melancholic ballad about a man who is trying to make a relationship work but feels like his efforts are not enough.

The song is played in C#m, with a 4/4 time signature and a tempo of 100 BPM. Chords used in the song encompass C#m, E, A, F#m and Bm.

Sweet Illusions

“Sweet Illusions” is a song by Ryan Adams and the Cardinals and was released in 2005 as part of his album “Cold Roses”.

In “Sweet Illusions”, Adams sings about the pain of letting go of someone he loves, even though he knows it’s for the best. The song is a poignant reminder that sometimes, even when we know something isn’t right for us, it can be hard to let go.

The song is played in Bm, played with the capo on the 2nd fret using the chords Am, G, C, F and Dm.

When will you come back home

“When Will You Come Back Home” is an acoustic alternative country ballad that was released in 2005 on his album “Cold Roses.” with his band The Cardinals.

The song is in the key of E major, played with the capo on the 2nd fret and the chords for the song are D, A, G, Em, Bm and Esus4.

Give me something good

“Give Me Something Good” is a song by Ryan Adams that was released in 2014 as part of his self-titled album. The song is a driving rock anthem with a catchy melody and a powerful chorus.

The song was inspired by Adams’ love of classic rock and roll, and he has cited bands like AC/DC and Van Halen as influences. In an interview with Rolling Stone, Adams said that he wanted to create a song that would make people feel good and get them excited about music again.

The song is played in Bm with the capo on the 2nd fret, using the chords Am, G, Fsus2, F, A, C and Am7.

My wrecking ball

“My Wrecking Ball” is a touching song that was released in 2014 on his self-titled album “Ryan Adams,” the songwriting in this track reflects Adams’ ability to convey raw emotion and vulnerability.

During the recording, Adams used a 1970 Harmony Buck Owens American acoustic guitar with the unmistable red white and blue finish.

The song is played with the capo on the 4th fret and the chords are F, C, Gsus4, Am7, Fmaj7, Fmaj9 and C/B.

Answering bell

“Answering Bell” is a compelling song released in 2001 on his album “Gold” and later released as a live version on “Live at Carnegie Hall”.

The music video for the song was directed by Luke Scott and was loosely based on “The Wizard of Oz”. The video features cameos by Elton John, Adam Duritz (Counting Crows), and singer-songwriter Leona Naess, who was briefly engaged to Adams.

The song is in the key of G major and the chords for the song are G, Bm, C, Cadd9, D/F#, Em7 and D.

Download Free Ryan Adams Chords and Tabs links sheet here

Since I don’t want to leave the songs on the shelf (I’m certainly not planning to) and start putting the songs out in the world, I thought I begin to share one with you. I just took my guitar right out the case and started playing and singing. Afterwards I added the lyrics and some clips to convey the emotion and feeling of the song. I hope you like it.

Enjoy!

New Song: “Stepping Away” ~ Klaus Crow

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Most musicians love to sing along to the songs they play on their guitar or any other instrument. Some guitar players focus entirely and solely on their instrument and that’s perfect, but there’s also the breed who loves to sing and play their hearts out. Even if you’re not, you definitely want to read on.

Most of us are not naturally born singers, and even if you are, you can always use some help to improve your singing voice and work to become a better singer / guitar player.

A lot of musicians just think they don’t have what it takes and they can’t do anything about it. They just throw in the towels and accept they aren’t really the singer type.

But that’s where they are wrong, you can definitely work to become a better singer, a good singer, and some even become great singers. But good is good enough.

How great is it to play your instrument and sing to your songs with confidence. Singing along with your instrument adds an extra dimension to the experience. You now have two instruments (your voice is also an instrument) that complement each other.

Learning to sing also helps you improve your playing, because playing guitar is all about listening and aural skills and that’s what you develop with singing lessons.

The most common problems people face are “problems with pitch”, “the crack in the voice” when going from chest voice to head voice, “singing higher notes” and “losing the voice” due to using of the voice in the wrong way. Most people also don’t know there are simple and easy ways to start improving the voice in a real short amount of time.

So I thought, it would be great to show you the 4 best online singing methods that I think can really help you out.

Of course there are a lot of free vocal lessons on Youtube that you can learn from, but if you want a systematic approach with a step by step plan that will improve and build your voice gradually to a better place then these methods are worth to check out.

Also watch the free singing tips from each of the vocal coaches below. They will already help you a great deal.

Enjoy!

30 DAY SINGER

30 Day Singer is the most popular online singing course. The course is great for beginners, but also provides advanced techniques for experienced singers. There are lessons for perfect pitch and intonation, getting better tone, learning to sing higher, steps to better phrasing, mastering vibrato, belting, and lessons that teach you different styles of singing from pop, country and R&B to classical. The instructors are best-in-class educators coming from Julliard, The Voice and other top music institutions. This course has everything you need to learn to sing. Start Now!

SINGING SUCCESS

Brett Manning’s complete vocal training program Singing Success walks you through close to 30 hours of step-by-step training, teaching you the exact same exercises, scales, and techniques Brett teaches his students in private lessons. Brett Manning is one of the music industry’s most sought after vocal coaches. Brett has had to privilege to work with top recording artists such as: Leona Lewis, Jimmy Gnecco, Taylor Swift and Keith Urban. Here’s a free effective vocal lesson from Brett Manning:

SINGORAMA

Vocal coach Melanie Alexander brings you Singorama with the help of vocal training software. Singorama will help you maximize your vocal range, vocal strength and agility, master your pitch and mixed voice, overcome performance anxiety and develop a beautiful tone. A 60 Day Money Back Guarantee is included.

On the website you can also get a free mini singing course.
Here are some tips on how to find your own singing style from Singorama:

Master Your Voice

Master Your Voice is the only singing course that includes personal feedback from a 5-star vocal coach. In Master Your Voice, you will learn how to expand your vocal range, hit higher notes and finally gain vocal control. As opposed to other video singing courses, Master Your Voice actually has you send in a recording of you singing something so you get detailed feedback on what you need to improve.

When you enroll in Master your voice you receive all of the following:

* Personal feedback from a real vocal coach
* A customized roadmap of how to work through the course
* 10 Hand-picked song choices for your voice
* A proven system to expand your range, gain control and build a voice you love that you WON’T find on YouTube
* A range finder to measure your singing progress 30-Day “5 Note Guarantee”

Master Your Voice will teach you all the tools you need to expand your vocal range. If you put in the work, 

This post may contain affiliate links. Please read my disclosure policy

“I’m singing what I want to sing based on the emotion of what that day feels like.
That’s what comes out of my mouth and guitar. That impacts people. ~ John Mayer

This post may contain affiliate links. Please read my disclosure policy

Memorizing song lyrics hasn’t always been my strongest asset. Learning chords, chord progressions, scales and guitar solos were always the easy part.

I’d go through them once or twice and they were stored in my brain for ages. But those nasty lyrics didn’t seem to get further than my short term memory.

Spaced repetition

I ultimately tackled this problem by using a learning technique called spaced repetition.

Spaced repetition works with graduated time intervals. It makes use of the spacing effect where you learn something several times spaced over a long time span.

Instead of cramming (hastily and intense studying at the latest possible moment) which is great for storing huge amounts of information for a short period of time, spaced repetition will pass the information from the short term memory onto the long term memory and make it last indefinitely.

Source

This technique was first discovered by Hermann Ebbinghaus, a german psychologist who experimented with the study of memory and did some extraordinary findings. He contributed to science with brilliant insights on the forgetting curve, the learning curve and the spacing effect.

Practice Memorization

While you can apply the spaced repetition technique to any kind of (musical) information, we’ll take “memorizing lyrics” as an example.

On day one you learn and memorize the lyrics to a song and sing it until it’s stored in your short term memory.

On day two you sing the lyrics a few times throughout the day (short intervals). From the third day on you only go through the song once. You skip day four and sing the lyrics on day five again. Now skip two days. Then skip a week. Skip two weeks.

Expand the intervals out to weeks, then months and finally years.

Mark the days on your calendar on your iPhone, Ipad or whatever so it will notify you when it’s time to go through your song again.

And you know what? It works!

Memorization App

You could also use an app like Anki. Anki is a flashcard learner. The desktop version is free, the iPhone app is a paid version.

Anki analyzes your learning and forgetting curve and predicts when you have to repeat a flashcard (a set of cards bearing information) to make sure you memorize the information for the long run applying the appropriate graduated time intervals.

While “Anki” is particularly suited for memorizing relatively short answers to questions which is great for music theory, learning scale notes or remembering the notes on the guitar neck, it can also train you to memorize song lyrics.

Anki lets you create your own set of questions and answers for the flashcards. Once you’ve created and saved your set you can turn to study.

I let Anki ask me questions like:
– Sing the lyrics to the third verse of the song “Oh my sweet carolina” by Ryan Adams.

– Name and visualize the chords for the song “Wave” by Antonio Carlos Jobim

– Sing the entire song of “Something” by the Beatles.

You can also copy and paste complete lyrics as a question or answer. You could edit song lyrics by leaving out a couple of words here and there in the verses and chorus.

Question:
What are the words to the song “Something” by The Beatles?
Something in the ………….., Attracts me like no…………..
Something in the……………., I don’t wanna ………….,
You know I believe,………..

Answer:
Something in the way she moves, Attracts me like no other lover.
Something in the way she woos me, I don’t wanna leave her now,
You know I believe, and how.

While you might not need this app to improve your memorization for song lyrics, it does help you analyze your learning and forgetting curve and alarm you in time to practice your song again before you start having difficulties to recall the lyrics.

Another cool thing about Anki are the ear training, interval and music theory exercises. You can load different sets of musical exercises to train your skills and improve your memory.

For me, spaced repetition has been the answer to my prayers and I’m having fun memorizing lyrics and other musical information more than ever.

Whatever you want to memorize, it’s yours!

Do you also want to improve your singing skills?

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This post may contain affiliate links. Please read my disclosure policy

Learning to play and sing at the same time can be challenging in the beginning, but this is a skill you can definitely learn. Once you know how to play some chords and strum a few songs, the next step is to sing along with the rhythm you’re playing. It’s a great feeling being able to play and sing at the same time.

Developing this skill will open up a whole new world for you. You can entertain friends and family or learn to perform and play for an audience. For me it’s also a feeling of freedom. Whenever I feel like it, I pick up my guitar and start playing and singing my favorite songs. It makes me feel good instantly.

Learning to play and sing at the same time is tough in the beginning, but if you follow the tips below and practice regularly you will get the hang of it.

Work hard, have fun and reap the benefits!

1. Start easy

First things first. Pick a song you like and something that is easy to play. A familiar song with easy chords and an easy strumming pattern.

2. Listen first

Before you start trying to play and sing simultaneously you first need to listen to the song quite a few times. Listen to the song on your iPod, iPad or whatever device you prefer, until you know the song inside out. Listen to the melody, listen to the lyrics, listen to the guitar and listen to the beat of the song. Try to count the beats. You can do this by listening to the kick (bass drum) and snare of the drummer.

3. Sing along

Search for the lyrics on the internet and practice singing along with the original song. Master the melody and the lyrics. The better you know the song the easier it will be to play and sing together later on. Memorize the lyrics of the song.

4. Practice guitar

Now practice the guitar part thoroughly. Make sure you know how to play the chords of the song inside out without having to look at your fingers and be able to play your strumming pattern comfortably.

5. Count the beat

Pick an easy strumming pattern. If it’s a 4/4 beat (meaning 4 beats in a bar) you can start off with just playing downstrokes on every beat and count along 1-2-3-4, 1-2-3-4. Try to tap your foot along with the beat. Once you’ve got this covered you can play a little more challenging 4/4 strumming pattern. Continue to count the beat 1-2-3-4 or tap your foot along.

If it’s a 3/4 beat you count 1-2-3, 1-2-3. Turn on the song, concentrate and listen carefully to the kick and snare drum and you’ll hear it.

6. Play along

Turn on the song again and play it along with your guitar. Don’t sing yet, just play through the song a couple of times until it feels comfortable. Now play along with the song and just listen to kick and the snare of the song. And finally play along and listen to the lyrics. Try to hum or sing along in your head.

7. Play it on your own

Turn off the music and start playing the song on your guitar. Start with playing the chords and the strumming pattern to the intro of the song so you hear what the song feels like and then try to sing along once the verse starts. You can also start with the chorus first if that sounds more familiar and comfortable.

In the beginning slow down a bit. Slowing down your strumming pattern makes it easier to concentrate and focus on putting it all together.

8. Practice makes perfect

As with everything you need to practice it over and over. The more you practice the better it gets. Keep on listening to the song whenever and wherever you can. Keep listening to the beat, keep counting, keep singing the song, memorizing the lyrics and keep practicing your guitar.

You’ll get there!

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This post may contain affiliate links. Please read my disclosure policy

In my early twenties I went backpacking in Australia with my girlfriend. During that trip we spent three days on a catamaran sailing the Great Barrier Reef with a group of people. One of the best times of my life.

When I first entered the catamaran the hosts asked me if I could play guitar. I was dumbfounded and said “huh, yes I do” and thought to myself, “how did they know that?” Later I would find out they asked everyone the same question.

In the evening we would all come together for a drink and a laugh. And then suddenly one of the hosts came out with a guitar and started playing and singing songs to entertain everyone.

Then after a while they handed the guitar over to me and said “Now it’s your turn!”. I thought, okay I’ll play a couple of tunes (I had been playing for about ten years by then) and suddenly I realized I could play a whole bunch of songs and some pretty cool solos, but I couldn’t sing the lyrics to the songs because I didn’t got them memorized.

Luckily my girlfriend was with me who is a singer and it turned out to be a great evening. Everyone sang along and was really enthusiastic.

I was saved! I realized what a shame it was that I couldn’t sing a few songs myself. A missed opportunity, but also a lesson learned. I would focus on memorizing song lyrics!

Here are 10 effective ways to get the job done:

1. Analyze the song lyrics.

What is the story about and what does every phrase and word mean? Go in to details. If needed, look it up on the internet www.songmeanings.com

2. Become one with the song

Let the feeling of the song lyrics genuinely and authentically become part of you. Use real emotions like happiness, anger, sadness, excitement, sorrow, etc. and connect them to each phrase of verse of the song.

3. Write down the song repeatedly.

Frank Sinatra used to write down the lyrics of a particular song over and over until he fell asleep just the day before performing. It worked like a charm.

4. Visualize the story

Create a short movie in your mind that relates to the lyrics and keep playing that movie when you’re memorizing the song. Your mind loves images and is better able to recall lyrics that are attached to visualizations.

5. Learn music and lyrics separately.

The brain will absorb and recall lyrics much faster when the music and lyrics come from separate parts of the brain.

6. Karaoke

Look for the song on youtube in karaoke version and sing along with the lyrics presented. (without you playing the instrument)

7. Repeat one line at a time.

Repeat the words in short phrases one line at a time. Memorize the first line and sing it out loud, learn the second line and sing out loud. Now repeat the first and second lines together, then add the third line sing out loud, then sing all 3 lines together and so on.

8. Go slowly

Pronounce and articulate each word and phrase real slowly, divided into syllables spoken with clear vowels and consonants to capture it thoroughly.

9. Sing yourself to sleep

Sing the lyrics in bed at night time just before you fall asleep. The brain will absorb the lyrics into the subconscious mind. Then sing the lyrics right after you wake up to refresh the memory. It’s a strong and effective way of getting information into the long term memory and increase your retention.

10. Write down your top 10

Create a top 10 list with your favorite songs and work on memorizing them. Play the songs randomly and as often as you can to a small crowd or just a single person. Playing in front of people is the ultimate test!

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Do you want to learn to sing (better)? 30 Day Singer is one of the most popular online singing courses. The course is great for beginners, but also provides advanced techniques for experienced singers.

There are lessons for perfect pitch and intonation, getting better tone, learning to sing higher, steps to better phrasing, mastering vibrato, belting, and lessons that teach you different styles of singing from pop, country and R&B to classical.

The instructors are best-in-class educators coming from Julliard, The Voice and other top music institutions. This course has everything you need to learn to sing. Start Now!

This post may contain affiliate links. Please read my disclosure policy

One of the things I have always had a hard time with is memorizing lyrics. I see this in people around me as well; finding it difficult to memorize chords and chord progressions. So based on my experience and some research I’ve done I give you some tips to overcome this obstacle.

But why do we need to memorize and remember lyrics and chord progressions? What’s the use of that?

Well, let’s say one of these days you’ll have to perform in front of an audience somewhere, somehow.
Maybe with a band or on your own…

• or a friend asks you to perform a few songs at his wedding or birthday party…
• or you would like to accompany a singer…
• or you want to play some nice songs to entertain a few people on a holiday in the south of France while drinking a cold beer…
• or just to try out a guitar in the guitar shop in town.

Wouldn’t it be nice by then, if you could just play something right on the spot instead of saying “I can’t do anything without having my sheet music in front of me”.

Another advantage is that you train your memory to remember music. The more often you try to remember lyrics and chords the easier it gets and the faster you’ll learn.
You also create freedom in your playing. You’re not stuck to a piece of paper and it will definitely make you a better guitar player.

Here are some suggestions:

Use your senses

Use as much of the five traditional senses as possible: sight, hearing, touch, smell, taste. Your senses are very close attached to your memory. For example: you probably remember exactly from years ago where you were and what you did when you listened to your favorite songs.

Visualize the song

Our brain thinks in pictures. So when we want to memorize lyrics we need to figure out what the song is about and visualize the story in our heads so we can relate to it. Visualize a story that really affects you so you get emotionally touched by it.

Feel the song

When you sing lyrics, sing them with heart and soul. Try to feel what you are singing about instead of summing up just a bunch of words. When you feel the song, you are much more likely to remember it because you are using your senses.

Connect the sentences

Search for the links and relationships between the sentences. What does one sentence say and what does the next one have to do with it.

Associate the lyrics

…with your own memories and past experiences. In other words: associate something new with something you already know. The brain likes to work that way.

Small chunks

Break up a long text into chunks and memorize these one by one. Repeat the first chunk a few times before moving on to the next.

Make it absurd

Make the visualization absurd. We tend to remember absurd things. Let’s take a sentence from the song “Hotel California” from the Eagles. For example: “Her mind is tiffany-twisted, she got the Mercedes Benz”. 

If you visualize an enormous brain (like really really big) twisting pop singer Tiffany (from the pop song: “I Think We’re Alone Now” in the late 80’s) while driving a Mercedes Benz, you probably won’t forget it. Maybe you think it’s a bad example… I suggest you create your own absurdness. The point is: if you read a sentence you can’t relate to at all, make it ridiculous.

Keywords

Memorize key words that trigger other words. I always try to memorize the first word or two words in a verse or chorus. If I remember these, the rest will follow by itself. Or try to remember the most important word in the sentence to trigger the other words.

Be conscious

Make sure you are alert. Memorize the lyrics when you had enough sleep instead of when you are tired. Maybe it’s a good idea to do this in the morning opposed to learning it after a busy day at work.

Be interested

Be interested in the story of the writer. What is the story about? Can you relate to it? Are there words in the lyrics you don’t understand? Look them up in a dictonary. Feel the story. Live it while you sing it.

Repeat

One of the best ways to memorize lyrics is repeating them. Repeat the lyrics frequently during the day for at least a week or so if you want it to access your long-term memory.

Get rid of distractions

Make sure you are not distracted. Lose all internal and external distractions:

1. External distractions: turn of your TV, radio, internet, etc, etc. Go to a room where it’s quiet and people can’t interrupt or distract you.
2. Internal distractions: are you worrying about things like your job, relations or just little things? Try to put them out of your mind or work them out.

Use your waiting time

Memorize while you are waiting: while you’re in traffic, driving your car, waiting in a doctor’s office, while you are cooking, etcetera. You can use this precious time to work on your repertoire.

Chord Visualization

When I started out playing guitar, I liked to see chords as shapes and objects. It’s a fast way of memorizing. Think of a D-chord as a triangle. Think of an A-chord as a little staircase going down, think of a Bm-chord as a staircase going up etc, etc. Sometimes I still do this with difficult chords. Because I’m used to think that way, I also remember difficult shapes more easily.

Chord Progressions

The same with chord-progressions. If it’s possible, try to see them as shapes and objects. For example when I play a chord progression like Am (577333), C major (x35553), G major (355433) and D major(x57775), I picture it like crossing the street diagonal from Am to C. Then I go up to G and then I cross the street again to D major. Try to see the logic behind the chord progression.

Step by step

Again with chord progressions: break them up into chunks. First learn the verse. Break it down into phrases. A lot of times you play the same chord progression over one or more of the phrases. Maybe even the whole verse. Practice the verse a few times so you feel comfortable with it. Now go to the pre-chorus or chorus and again break it into chunks. One chord progression at a time and try to see the logic behind the chords and chord progressions.

Now go memorize your favorite guitar songs and amaze people!

Don’t forget to write a comment. :-) I’d appreciate it.

30 Day Singer

Do you want to learn to sing (better)? 30 Day Singer is one of the most popular online singing courses. The course is great for beginners, but also provides advanced techniques for experienced singers.

There are lessons for perfect pitch and intonation, getting better tone, learning to sing higher, steps to better phrasing, mastering vibrato, belting, and lessons that teach you different styles of singing from pop, country and R&B to classical.

The instructors are best-in-class educators coming from Julliard, The Voice and other top music institutions. This course has everything you need to learn to sing. Start Now!