Chord Charts, Pt. VIII

Back in January I began a series of posts devoted to the study of rhythm charts, but this month I’ll tackle a similar concept called a chord chart. A chord chart is a shorthand system using only lyrics and chord symbols to outline a song.

Chord charts are probably the most utilized form of “notation” by the average guitarist and are commonly found on the Internet to illustrate chord changes to a given song. Just Google a song title and guitar chords - chances are some type chord chart will appear.

These types of charts are ideal for guitarists who sing and play as song lyrics are laid out with the chord changes above them. Since chord charts are shorthand way to outline a song a certain familiarity with the song is expected.

Why should they player be familiar with the song? First, unlike a rhythm chart, chord charts do not indicate how the rhythm to a song should be played – the rhythm is left for the player to interpret. Second, chord charts may not inform the player how to finger a given chord and the player may choose whatever fingering they like. Third, chord changes may not match up exactly with the words and the player needs to know how long a chord should be played or when a chord change may occur. Fourth, there may be certain “signature licks” in a song that are not always included in a chord chart. Fifth, chord changes may not be indicated in every verse or chorus, so the player must be familiar with the flow of the words against the chord changes.

Here is a sample chord chart for the Elvis Presley classic “Don’t Be Cruel” to practice with. Enjoy!!