Hey guys! Today, we're diving deep into a timeless classic: "Every Breath You Take" by The Police. This song is a staple for anyone learning guitar, and mastering a cover version is super rewarding. We'll break down the chords, strumming patterns, and even some cool variations to make your cover stand out. So, grab your guitar, and let’s get started!

Understanding the Original

Before we jump into the chords, let’s appreciate the genius of the original. "Every Breath You Take" was released in 1983 and quickly became one of The Police's signature songs. Penned by Sting, the song's simple yet haunting melody, combined with its somewhat ambiguous lyrics, has captivated listeners for decades. The original's arrangement is quite sparse, featuring Sting's distinctive vocals, Andy Summers's atmospheric guitar work, and a steady, almost hypnotic bassline and drumbeat. This simplicity is part of what makes the song so accessible and adaptable for covers.

When you're thinking about doing a cover, it's not just about playing the right notes; it's about understanding the feel of the song. Listen closely to how the original builds tension and releases it, and pay attention to the dynamics – how the song gets louder and softer in different sections. Also, notice the subtle nuances in Sting's vocal delivery; he's not just singing the words, he's conveying a sense of longing and obsession. All these elements contribute to the song's overall impact, and they're things you can try to incorporate into your own cover.

Think about what you want to bring to the song. Are you going for a faithful rendition that stays true to the original? Or do you want to put your own spin on it, perhaps by changing the tempo, adding different instruments, or experimenting with different vocal harmonies? There's no right or wrong answer, but having a clear idea of your intentions will help you make informed decisions about your arrangement. For example, if you're playing solo acoustic, you might want to focus on creating a fuller sound by using fingerpicking techniques or adding a percussive element to your playing. Or, if you're playing with a band, you might want to explore different instrumental textures and arrangements to create a unique sonic landscape.

Basic Chords for "Every Breath You Take"

The core of "Every Breath You Take" revolves around a simple, yet effective chord progression. Here’s a breakdown of the essential chords you'll need:

• A (A Major): This is a foundational chord. Place your index finger on the 2nd fret of the D string, your middle finger on the 2nd fret of the G string, and your ring finger on the 2nd fret of the B string. Strum all strings.
• Bm (B Minor): This one can be a bit tricky for beginners. You can play a barre chord version (barre your index finger across the 2nd fret, then place your ring finger on the 4th fret of the D string, and your pinky on the 4th fret of the G string, and your middle finger on the 3rd fret of the B string), or a simplified version (omit the barre and only play the top four strings – D, G, B, and high E – with your index finger on the 2nd fret of the B string, your middle finger on the 3rd fret of the D string, and your ring finger on the 4th fret of the G string). Choose whichever feels most comfortable.
• D (D Major): Place your index finger on the 2nd fret of the G string, your middle finger on the 2nd fret of the high E string, and your ring finger on the 3rd fret of the B string. Strum all strings except the low E string.
• E (E Major): Place your index finger on the 1st fret of the G string, your middle finger on the 2nd fret of the A string, and your ring finger on the 2nd fret of the D string. Strum all strings.

These four chords form the backbone of the song. The primary progression is usually A - Bm - D - E. Mastering smooth transitions between these chords is key to playing a good cover. Practice slowly at first, focusing on clean changes. Gradually increase your speed as you become more comfortable.

Consider experimenting with different voicings of these chords. For example, instead of playing a standard A major chord, try playing an Aadd4 (add the 9th) for a slightly more open and airy sound. Or, instead of playing a standard D major chord, try playing a Dsus2 (suspend the 2nd) for a more ambiguous and unresolved feel. These subtle variations can add depth and interest to your cover without straying too far from the original's harmony. Also, think about the order in which you play the chords. While the standard progression is A - Bm - D - E, you could try changing the order to create a different feel. For example, starting with the Bm chord can create a sense of tension and anticipation.

Strumming Patterns

The original song features a relatively simple strumming pattern, but getting it right is crucial for capturing the song's vibe. A basic pattern you can use is:

Down - Down - Up - Down - Up

This pattern provides a steady rhythm that complements the song's tempo. However, don't be afraid to experiment with variations to add your own touch. Try adding accents on certain beats, or incorporating some palm muting for a more percussive sound. Listen carefully to the original recording and try to emulate the nuances of Andy Summers's guitar playing. He often uses subtle variations in his strumming to create a sense of movement and dynamics. For example, he might strum harder on certain beats to emphasize the rhythm, or he might use a lighter touch to create a more delicate and intimate feel. Also, pay attention to the spaces between the strums. Sometimes, what you don't play is just as important as what you do play. Leaving small gaps in your strumming can create a sense of anticipation and suspense.

Syncopation is another technique you can use to add interest to your strumming. This involves emphasizing the off-beats, which can create a more complex and rhythmic feel. For example, instead of strumming on the downbeats (1, 2, 3, 4), try strumming on the upbeats (the "ands" between the numbers). This can create a more syncopated and danceable groove. Also, consider using different strumming patterns for different sections of the song. For example, you might use a simpler pattern for the verses and a more complex pattern for the choruses. This can help to build dynamics and create a sense of contrast between the different sections.

Adding Your Own Flair

While it's important to respect the original, the best covers are those that bring something new to the table. Here are some ideas to make your version unique:

• Change the Tempo: Speeding up or slowing down the song can drastically alter its feel. A faster tempo might make it more upbeat, while a slower tempo can emphasize the song's melancholic side.
• Alter the Key: Singing the song in a different key can make it more comfortable for your vocal range. Use a capo to easily transpose the chords.
• Experiment with Instrumentation: Try adding different instruments to the mix. A string section, a piano, or even electronic elements can create a fresh and interesting soundscape.
• Vocal Harmonies: Adding harmonies can create a richer and more layered vocal arrangement. Experiment with different harmonies to find what sounds best.

Think about the message of the song and how it resonates with you. What personal experiences can you bring to your interpretation? How can you use your unique voice and style to communicate the song's emotions in a way that's both authentic and original? For example, if you've experienced heartbreak, you might want to focus on conveying the song's sense of loss and regret. Or, if you're feeling optimistic, you might want to emphasize the song's message of hope and resilience. The key is to connect with the song on a personal level and let your emotions guide your performance.

Consider the context in which you're performing the song. Are you playing in a small, intimate venue, or a large, open space? Are you playing for a casual audience, or a more discerning crowd? The context can influence your choices about arrangement, instrumentation, and vocal delivery. For example, if you're playing in a small venue, you might want to keep the arrangement simple and intimate. Or, if you're playing for a discerning crowd, you might want to showcase your technical skills and musical knowledge. The key is to be mindful of your surroundings and adapt your performance accordingly.

Advanced Chord Variations

For those looking to add some extra spice, here are some advanced chord variations you can incorporate:

• A7 (A Dominant 7): Adds a bluesy feel. (202020)
• Bm7 (B Minor 7): A jazzy alternative to Bm. (x24232)
• Dmaj7 (D Major 7): A richer, more complex D. (xx0222)
• E7 (E Dominant 7): Adds tension leading back to A. (020100)

These chords can add depth and sophistication to your cover. Experiment with substituting them for the basic chords in the progression and see what you come up with.

Putting It All Together

Alright, you've got the chords, the strumming patterns, and some ideas for adding your own flair. Now it’s time to practice, practice, practice! Start slow and gradually increase your speed as you become more comfortable. Record yourself playing and listen back critically to identify areas for improvement. Don't be afraid to experiment and try new things. The most important thing is to have fun and make the song your own.

Remember, the best covers are those that come from the heart. So, pour your soul into your performance and let your passion shine through. With a little practice and creativity, you'll be able to create a cover of "Every Breath You Take" that's both faithful to the original and uniquely your own.

And that's a wrap, folks! I hope this tutorial has been helpful. Now go out there and make some awesome music!