Life After Power Chords..........

[kyleguitar2k]

Ever since i started playing I was shown all different songs that basically used power chords.


Now that i feel ive got the hang of it, what do you recommend I try next. Because no matter what new skill i look at I always go back to using power chords.

What should I do to get out of this habit and to move on to something new?


Any response will be appreciated.....

[Raskolnikov]

Classic Rock, Jazz, Ska, Country...

All of that stuff uses a lot less power chords.

If all else fails, get a chord book and start making stuff up. Mix open chords and barre chords.

[pstring]

I agree with Ras, expanding your musical horizons can help, also it sounds like a good time to start working on basic harmony, learning how chords relate to each note of the major scale, learning the different chord forms/shapes up the neck, inversions, major, minor, dim, Maj7, min7th, 9ths etc, and learn how they are constructed, what makes a Maj7 a Maj7, etc... Not just memorizing a few shapes, this may not sound real exciting, but you can learn it a bit at a time and use it the rest of your life

[skee1]

I would say if you do what Rask & Pstring told you
to (try) you might just become a Real (Guitar-player)
Thier way is the right way to get out of that groove
your stuck in .
But it takes alot of work and practice but its worth
it in the long run.Remember never give up .(Thats the key)



Mark

[yegger]

I've been playing classical guitar for 20 years and have just picked up an electric guitar and an effects board. I love playing hard core power chords, distortion is so fun I can't believe I waited this long to try out something new.
Don't limit yourself, Try one thing until you get tired then move on to the next. Have fun!!!

[Jack Tamble]

Good move! Power chords are very limiting. If all you ever want to play is heavy metal they will work, but other styles will sound weak with them. When I made the transition from power chords to "real chords", I used Blues as training. The minor 7th rules the blues, along with 9ths and a few others. But its not too overwhelming. The I-IV-V progressions are a lot more easier to work with too.
Anyway, I would say let your musical interests reflect the chords you use. If you just want to learn other chords for fun or whatever, I would suggest starting with open chords, then move on to the barre chords(I had a hard time with barre chords). Enough practice, and before you know it your hand will go to make a full chord, where it normally jumped on a power chord. Good luck!