Master U2's All I Want Is You with this Easy Guitar Lesson

Table of Contents

1. Introduction
2. Overview of "All I Want Is You"
3. Chords and Strumming Patterns
   • 3.1 A Chord Progression
   • 3.2 D Chord Progression
   • 3.3 F Sharp Minor Chord Simplification
   • 3.4 Palm Muting Technique
   • 3.5 Accents and Rhythmic Groove
4. Playing the Riff
   • 4.1 Simplified Version
   • 4.2 Advanced Strumming and 16th Note Counting
5. Tips for Beginners
6. Learning by Ear vs. Instruction
7. Adding Layers and Effects
8. Conclusion

🎵 Introduction

In this article, we will dive into the classic U2 hit song "All I Want Is You." This iconic tune is filled with interesting chord progressions, strumming patterns, and techniques that make it both enjoyable to play and challenging to master. Whether you're a beginner or an experienced guitarist, we'll break down the song step by step, offering tips and guidance along the way. So grab your guitar and let's get started!

🎵 Overview of "All I Want Is You"

"All I Want Is You" is a popular song by the Irish rock band U2. It was released in 1989 as the closing track of their album "Rattle and Hum." The song combines heartfelt lyrics with a melodic and captivating sound that has made it a fan favorite over the years. With its dynamic shifts and emotional resonance, "All I Want Is You" is a great song to add to your repertoire.

🎸 Chords and Strumming Patterns

To play "All I Want Is You," you'll need to familiarize yourself with several chords and strumming patterns. Let's break them down step by step.

3.1 A Chord Progression

The song starts with a simple progression from an A chord to a D chord. This section involves palm muting and accenting, which adds a unique touch to the strumming pattern. For beginners, simplifying the F sharp minor chord may be more manageable. Here are the chords used in this section:

• A chord
• D chord
• F sharp minor chord (simplified version)

3.2 D Chord Progression

In the verse, the chord progression switches between A, D, and F sharp minor chords. The F sharp minor chord can be challenging, but there are cheats and alternative fingerings that make it easier to play. Practice transitioning smoothly between these chords to capture the song's essence.

3.3 F Sharp Minor Chord Simplification

If you find the F sharp minor chord difficult, there are ways to simplify it. One approach is to use a little bar with your first finger or add your little finger on the thinnest string. Alternatively, you can play an F sharp power chord, making it more accessible for beginners.

3.4 Palm Muting Technique

To create the distinctive sound of the song, you'll need to master the palm muting technique. This involves lightly resting the outside part of your hand on the strings while strumming. The goal is to produce a muted and percussive sound. Experiment with the placement of your hand to find the sweet spot that produces the desired effect.

3.5 Accents and Rhythmic Groove

One of the key elements of "All I Want Is You" is the use of accents in the strumming pattern. Accents occur on beats one, the "and" after two, and beats three and four. By emphasizing these beats, you can add a rhythmic groove to the song. Practice incorporating the accents into your strumming to capture the song's unique feel.

🎸 Playing the Riff

The riff in "All I Want Is You" is both captivating and challenging. There are different approaches to playing it, depending on your skill level. Let's explore two options: a simplified version and a more advanced strumming pattern.

4.1 Simplified Version

For beginners, a simplified version of the riff is a great place to start. This version utilizes all down strums and focuses on capturing the melody. Here is the simplified riff:

• A chord: Down, down, down, down
• Sus2 chord: Down, down, down, down
• D chord: Down, down, down, down

Practice this simplified version to get a feel for the song's melody and rhythm.

4.2 Advanced Strumming and 16th Note Counting

For a more advanced approach, you can incorporate 16th note strumming to add complexity to the riff. This involves counting beats and subdivisions, but don't let it intimidate you. With practice, it becomes more natural. Here is the strumming pattern for the advanced version:

• A chord: Down, down, up, down, down, down, up, down, down, down, up
• Sus2 chord: Down, down, up, down, down, down, up, down, down, down, up
• D chord: Down, down, up, down, down, down, up, down, down, down, up

Remember to keep your hand moving consistently throughout the strumming pattern, and don't get discouraged if it feels challenging at first. Practice and gradually increase your speed and accuracy.

🎸 Tips for Beginners

If you're a beginner guitarist, tackling a song like "All I Want Is You" can be overwhelming. Here are a few tips to help you navigate the learning process:

1. Start with the basics: Focus on mastering the core chord progressions and strumming patterns before attempting more complex techniques.
2. Take it slow: Break the song down into smaller sections and practice them individually. Gradually build up to playing the entire song.
3. Practice regularly: Consistency is key when learning any new skill. Set aside dedicated practice time each day to make steady progress.

By implementing these tips, you'll develop the necessary skills to play "All I Want Is You" proficiently.

🔊 Learning by Ear vs. Instruction

Learning a song like "All I Want Is You" by ear can be a rewarding and valuable experience. Listening closely to the original recording and figuring out the chords and melodies helps develop your musical ear. However, if you prefer a more guided approach, there are various instructional resources available, such as video tutorials or guitar tabs. Find the learning method that suits you best and enjoy the process of mastering this classic U2 song.

🎛️ Adding Layers and Effects

To truly capture the essence of "All I Want Is You," consider adding layers to your performance. The original song utilizes various effects, such as delay, to create a rich and atmospheric sound. Experiment with different guitar pedals and effects to recreate the iconic tone of the song. Additionally, you can play around with dynamics and variations in your strumming to add depth to your rendition.

🎵 Conclusion

"All I Want Is You" is a timeless song that showcases U2's musical prowess. By breaking down the chords, strumming patterns, and techniques, you can learn to play this iconic tune on the guitar. Whether you choose the simplified version or tackle the advanced strumming, practicing regularly and taking it one step at a time will lead to mastery. So grab your guitar, let the melody resonate, and enjoy playing "All I Want Is You"!