Introduction
Dont Panic
Introduction
Chords and Rhythm
Song Arrangement
Lick and Solo
Song Demo
Sing and Play
Dont Panic
Introduction
Chords and Rhythm
Song Arrangement
Lick and Solo
Song Demo
Sing and Play
Explore More in English Songs
Introduction:
Torrins brings you an exciting guitar lesson "Just The Way You Are" by Bruno Mars, taught by expert instructor Mike Walker. This beautiful and heartfelt song is known for its simplicity and emotional depth, making it a great choice for both beginners and intermediate players. In this lesson, you'll learn two different ways to play this song with and without a capo along with essential strumming techniques and dynamics.
Fun Fact: "Just The Way You Are" was Bruno Mars' debut solo single, earning him the Grammy Award for Best Male Pop Vocal Performance at the 53rd Annual Grammy Awards. This song marked the beginning of his rise to global stardom!
Chords Used in Just The Way You Are Guitar Lesson
With Capo (3rd fret):
- Mike demonstrates how to play the song with chords like Bm, Double Stack G, and others.
- The non-capo version of the song includes just a handful of chords, with one being a barre chord (Bm). However, Mike Walker demonstrates an easy way to play it, making it accessible for all skill levels.
Without Capo:
- Bb (barre chord), F, and others.
- This version features slightly trickier chord shapes, but the lesson breaks down smooth transitions between them.
Strumming Pattern
The song follows a consistent and simple strumming pattern: DDDUDUDD.
Mike explains how to approach string roots and strumming accents to enhance your playing. Tune in to the lesson to learn these techniques in detail.
Pro Tip: Since the song is highly repetitive, dynamics play a crucial role. Dynamics keep the song engaging and expressive. The verse is played slightly louder than the chorus to create contrast and keep the song engaging.
Capo vs. Non-Capo Version
This lesson provides two approaches:
- Capo Version: A beginner-friendly arrangement with simple chord transitions.
- Non-Capo Version: A slightly more advanced version with barre chords and intricate transitions.
Mike plays both versions along with a backing track to help tie everything together. The lyrics provided with the guitar tutorial help you follow along seamlessly, making it easier to match your playing with the vocal phrasing and timing.
Why Learn Just The Way You Are?
This lesson is perfect for players who want to master song dynamics and strumming consistency. You'll also gain experience with barre chords, making it a great stepping stone toward more advanced playing.
FAQs – Just The Way You Are Guitar Lesson
Q1. Is this song beginner-friendly?
A: Yes! The capo version makes it accessible, while the non-capo version challenges intermediate players.
Q2. Do I need a capo?
A: No, but the capo version simplifies chord shapes and makes the song easier to play.
Q4. What if I struggle with the barre chords?
A: Mike demonstrates easy ways to tackle the barre chords and some tips for smooth transitions and finger positionings.
Introduction
Tune into a classic Pink Floyd guitar lesson on Wish You Were Here at Torrins.com, led by our experienced tutor, Mike Dugan. He breaks down the lesson into various sections: Introduction, Intro Chords & Rhythm, Intro Lead, Verse & Chorus Lesson, Solo Improvisation, Arrangement & Playing with Backing Track.
Interesting Fact: In the song's intro, you can hear David Gilmour coughing and breathing heavily before the guitar kicks in. Rumour had it that Gilmour’s smoking habit caused the cough, and that he quit smoking afterwards out of frustration with the recording. But Gilmour later clarified he never smoked!
Mike plays the song using various open chords, including Em, Em7, G, A, and Am. Tune into the complete lesson to learn the rest of the chords that make up this song. This song is a great choice for both beginners and intermediate players.
Chords Used in "Wish You Were Here" Guitar Lesson
This song is played using simple open chords, making it accessible for both beginners and intermediate players. For intermediate players, Mike introduces some alternate chord voicings to stay true to the song’s original sound while adding a unique touch.
Strumming Pattern
The strumming pattern is beginner-friendly with consistent downstrums. For those wanting to level up, Mike shares an advanced rhythm that incorporates upstrums for a more dynamic feel.
Song Structure
"Wish You Were Here" follows a clear and structured arrangement:
- Intro: Lead + rhythm section (Mike provides a simpler alternative for beginners)
- Lead Riffs: Based on the E minor pentatonic scale and its extensions, featuring double stops and hammer-ons.
- Verse 1: Smooth chord transitions; beginners can use downstrums, while advanced players can follow the more complex rhythm.
- Solo: You can either repeat the intro solo or follow Mike’s improvisation using the E minor pentatonic scale.
- Verse 2: Similar to Verse 1, with consistent strumming and clean transitions.
- Final Solo: A concluding solo based on the intro lead and E minor pentatonic improvisation.
Improvisation Techniques
Mike teaches how to improvise using the E minor pentatonic scale. He also adds his own flair by playing it on the 12th fret in true David Gilmour style.
Singing Along
Mike also walks you through the singing component, helping you match the chord changes with the lyrics.
Pro Tip: Make use of tabs and lyrics for smoother learning.
Why Learn "Wish You Were Here"?
This lesson helps you improve your chord transitions and develop a smooth, expressive playing style. It's a great piece to master for solo and sing-along sessions. Plus, learning David Gilmour’s style will sharpen your improvisation skills.
Tips to Improve:
- Focus on clean chord transitions.
- Keep your strumming hand relaxed to maintain a steady rhythm.
FAQs – "Wish You Were Here" Guitar Lesson
Q1. Is this song beginner-friendly?
Yes! The chords are straightforward, and Mike provides a simplified version of the intro for beginners.
Q2. Can I just strum the song instead of fingerpicking?
Yes! You can simplify the song with consistent downstrums or follow the more advanced strumming pattern Mike shares.



























