Song Writers Rejoice...it's easy as Four Chords!

[csiaudio]

That's right FOUR chords that's all ya need to know! Want proof...enjoy!


http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=qHBVnMf2t7w

[Dan Walsh]

That's some pretty funny S#*T. I always love the people that take the time to put that stuff together.....

[bayswater]

I think I was in that band for a month in the 80s. They wrote dozens of songs. All Bm, G, D, A.

[newrigel]

I wouldn't mind some of the $$ those songs made though!

[bongo_x]

I've never written a song with that progression, now I know why I've never had a hit song.

bb

[newrigel]

I think it depends on the song... why play it in 10 notes when you can say it in 3?
Most of the time... less is more.

[jayjo19]

well it is true that modern pop is pretty much straightforward as far as songwriting.

BUT...you can do a lot and make it sound "more professional" in a sense with a good arrangement ! Most of the songs in the video are all transposed and simplified to make their point. ie : elton john, there's more than 4 chords in "can you feel the love tonight". plus the chord progression is much more interesting in the verses...

[Jim]

A guitar player friend told me 30 years ago that you only need to know three chords to play all Country music songs.

There are some Punk songs that just use two chords.

I'm sure some minimalist has written a one-note song at some point or another.

[jsheitert]

Nirvana's 'love buzz' is one chord and one chord only.

[bomber]

Bob Marley's "Exodus" is just one chord.

And, for people who might have trouble playing along...
http://www.e-chords.com/chords/bob-marley/exodus

[jlstcui]

Pink's "Get the Party Started" has only one chord.