Hey guys! Let's dive into the timeless classic, "True Colors" by Cyndi Lauper. This song is not only beautiful but also relatively simple to play on the guitar or piano. Whether you're a beginner or an experienced musician, learning the chords to "True Colors" can be a rewarding experience. In this article, we’ll break down the chords, offer tips on how to play them smoothly, and explore some nuances that make this song so special. So, grab your instrument and let’s get started!

Understanding the Chords

First off, let’s talk about the basic chords you'll need to play "True Colors." The song primarily revolves around a few key chords that create its soothing and uplifting sound. The main chords are:

• G Major (G): This is a fundamental chord in many songs. The G major chord typically involves playing the notes G, B, and D. On the guitar, this can be played in various positions, but a common one is with fingers on the 6th string (3rd fret), 5th string (2nd fret), and 1st string (3rd fret).
• D Major (D): Another very common chord, D major includes the notes D, F#, and A. On the guitar, a typical D major chord involves fretting the 2nd string (3rd fret), 3rd string (2nd fret), and 1st string (2nd fret).
• Em (E minor): E minor brings a touch of melancholy to the song. It consists of the notes E, G, and B. A common way to play it on the guitar is by placing fingers on the 5th string (2nd fret) and the 4th string (2nd fret).
• C Major (C): C major adds a bright and hopeful feel, comprising the notes C, E, and G. On the guitar, this often involves barring the 5th string (3rd fret) with your ring finger, placing your middle finger on the 4th string (2nd fret), and your index finger on the 2nd string (1st fret).

These chords form the backbone of "True Colors." The sequence and transitions between these chords are what give the song its distinctive emotional quality. By understanding these chords and practicing their transitions, you can begin to capture the essence of this beautiful song. Don't worry if you find some transitions tricky at first; consistent practice will smooth them out. Remember to listen to the song frequently to internalize the chord changes and their timing, and soon you'll be playing "True Colors" with confidence and feeling.

Playing the Intro

The intro to "True Colors" is iconic and sets the tone for the entire song. Typically played on a synthesizer or piano, you can adapt it for guitar using arpeggios or fingerpicking. Start with the G major chord. Instead of strumming, try picking each string individually to create a delicate, shimmering sound. Then, move to the D major chord and do the same. The Em chord follows, adding a touch of depth, and finally, the C major chord brings a sense of resolution. Pay close attention to the timing; each chord should ring out clearly before transitioning to the next.

Experiment with different fingerpicking patterns to find what sounds best to you. You can also add subtle variations to the intro by incorporating passing tones or slight embellishments. For example, try adding a hammer-on or pull-off on one of the strings to create a more dynamic sound. Listen closely to the original recording and try to emulate the nuances of the intro. Remember, the goal is to create a captivating and inviting atmosphere that draws the listener in. Practice the intro slowly at first, focusing on accuracy and clarity. As you become more comfortable, gradually increase the tempo until you can play it smoothly and confidently.

Verse and Chorus Chords

The verse and chorus of "True Colors" follow a similar chord progression, making it relatively easy to memorize. In the verse, the progression usually goes something like this: G - D - Em - C. This sequence is repeated, creating a comforting and familiar feeling. As you transition into the chorus, the chords remain largely the same, but the intensity and dynamics increase. This is where you can add more emotion and expression to your playing.

In the chorus, try strumming the chords with more energy and conviction. You can also experiment with different strumming patterns to add your own personal touch. For example, try using a down-up strumming pattern or adding a syncopated rhythm to create a more dynamic feel. Pay attention to the lyrics and try to match your playing to the emotional content of the song. When Cyndi Lauper sings about showing your true colors, let your playing reflect that sentiment. Don't be afraid to let your personality shine through.

Additionally, consider adding subtle variations to the chord progression in the verse and chorus to keep things interesting. For example, you could add a passing chord or a suspension to create a momentary sense of tension and release. You could also try changing the voicing of the chords to create a different texture. The key is to experiment and find what sounds best to you. Remember, music is all about self-expression, so don't be afraid to take risks and try new things. With practice and experimentation, you'll be able to play the verse and chorus of "True Colors" with confidence and style.

Strumming Patterns

Choosing the right strumming pattern can greatly enhance the song's emotional impact. For "True Colors," a gentle and rhythmic strumming pattern is ideal. A simple down-up strumming pattern on each chord can work wonders. Focus on maintaining a consistent rhythm and smooth transitions between chords. Varying the intensity of your strumming can also add depth and dynamics to your performance. For the verses, a softer, more subdued strumming pattern can create a sense of intimacy and vulnerability. Then, as you move into the chorus, you can increase the intensity and energy of your strumming to create a more uplifting and powerful sound.

Experiment with different strumming patterns to find what works best for you. You could try adding a syncopated rhythm or incorporating some muted strums to create a more interesting texture. Pay attention to the dynamics of the song and adjust your strumming accordingly. For example, you could start with a quiet, understated strumming pattern in the intro and then gradually build up the intensity as the song progresses. You could also try using a more aggressive strumming pattern in the bridge to create a sense of tension and then release it in the final chorus. The key is to be creative and experiment with different techniques to find what sounds best to you.

Also, remember to listen closely to the original recording of "True Colors" and try to emulate the strumming patterns used by the guitarist. Pay attention to the nuances and subtleties of their playing and try to incorporate them into your own performance. With practice and experimentation, you'll be able to develop your own unique strumming style that perfectly complements the emotional content of the song. So grab your guitar, start strumming, and let your true colors shine through!

Fingerpicking Variations

If strumming isn't your thing, fingerpicking offers a beautiful alternative for playing "True Colors." Fingerpicking involves plucking individual strings with your fingers instead of strumming all the strings at once. This technique can create a more delicate and intricate sound, perfect for capturing the song's emotional depth. Start by assigning each finger to a specific string: your thumb for the bass notes (E, A, D strings), your index finger for the G string, your middle finger for the B string, and your ring finger for the high E string. Then, experiment with different fingerpicking patterns to find what sounds best to you.

A common fingerpicking pattern for "True Colors" involves plucking the bass note of each chord with your thumb, followed by plucking the G, B, and high E strings with your index, middle, and ring fingers respectively. This creates a gentle, arpeggiated sound that is both soothing and captivating. You can also add variations to this pattern by incorporating pinches, where you pluck two or more strings simultaneously. This can add a bit of rhythmic complexity and texture to your playing. Experiment with different combinations of pinches and single-note plucks to create your own unique fingerpicking style.

Also, consider using harmonics to add a touch of ethereal beauty to your fingerpicking arrangement. Harmonics are produced by lightly touching a string at a specific point while plucking it. This creates a bell-like tone that can add a magical quality to your playing. Experiment with different harmonic techniques to find what sounds best to you. With practice and experimentation, you'll be able to create a stunning fingerpicking arrangement of "True Colors" that showcases the song's emotional depth and beauty. So grab your guitar, start fingerpicking, and let your true colors shine through!

Tips for Beginners

• Start Slow: Don't rush. Practice the chord changes slowly until they become second nature.
• Use a Tuner: Ensure your guitar is perfectly in tune. This makes a huge difference in the overall sound.
• Practice Transitions: Focus specifically on moving smoothly between chords.
• Listen Actively: Listen to the song frequently to internalize the rhythm and feel.

Advanced Techniques

• Add Embellishments: Incorporate hammer-ons, pull-offs, and slides to add flair.
• Use Different Voicings: Experiment with different ways to play the same chord for varied textures.
• Incorporate Dynamics: Play some parts softly and others loudly to create emotional contrast.

Conclusion

So there you have it, guys! Playing "True Colors" by Cyndi Lauper is a fantastic way to improve your chord skills and connect with a truly beautiful song. Remember to take your time, practice regularly, and most importantly, have fun! Whether you're strumming or fingerpicking, let your own true colors shine through in your performance.