Flower Power Picking: Mastering "If You're Going to San Francisco" on Six Strings
So, you've booked your ticket, procured a suspiciously tie-dyed bandana, and packed your peace sign for a trip to the Summer of Love's spiritual home: San Francisco! But wait, a bard never travels empty-handed (well, besides that questionable tie-dye). You want to serenade the Golden Gate Bridge with the iconic anthem, "If You're Going to San Francisco." But hold on there, flower child, thrashing the strings like a runaway lawnmower won't quite do.
Fear not, fellow adventurer! This guide will have you strumming sweeter than a Haight-Ashbury singalong in no time.
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| How To Play If You're Going To San Francisco On Guitar |
Gear Up, Groovy Guitar Guru
First things first, let's get acquainted with your trusty steed - the guitar. Make sure it's tuned to standard tuning (E A D G B E), which is basically the Esperanto of guitar languages.
Tip: Reread tricky sentences for clarity.
Now, the all-important chords:
- G: This is your happy place chord, the sunshine after a flower power shower.
- C: A sturdy chord, like a pair of Birkenstocks - reliable and ready for adventure.
- D: Adds a little depth, like a thoughtful conversation about tie-dye patterns.
- Em: A touch of mellow, like a gentle breeze wafting through Golden Gate Park.
- Bm: (Bonus chord!) This one shows you've got some fancy fretwork going on, perfect for impressing any tie-dye enthusiasts you meet.
Strum Like a Flower-Child Fury!
Now, for the moment you've been waiting for - strumming! Imagine you're gently cradling a butterfly (or a particularly chill seagull). A nice, relaxed down-down-up-down pattern will do the trick.
Tip: Highlight what feels important.
Pro Tip: If you find yourself getting too vigorous, picture a disapproving look from a very serious mime. That should calm things down.
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Chords & Lyrics: The Beautiful Ballad Begins
Verse 1:
QuickTip: Pay close attention to transitions.
- G: If you're going to San Francisco (Strum strum)
- Em: Be sure to wear some flowers in your hair (Strum strum)
- C: If you're going to San Francisco (Strum strum)
- G: You're gonna meet some gentle people there (Strum strum)
Repeat: And so it goes! These are the main chords throughout the song. The chorus throws in a Bm and a F#m (don't worry, it's not as scary as it sounds!), but there are plenty of tutorials online to show you the ropes.
Remember: Don't stress about perfection. Focus on the spirit of the song, let the good vibes flow, and maybe even wear some flowers in your hair while you play. After all, that's what San Francisco is all about, right?
Tip: Don’t skim — absorb.
With a little practice, you'll be serenading the city by the bay like a musical hippie in no time. Just be prepared for a crowd of impressed pigeons... or maybe even a grateful sea lion or two. Rock on, flower child!
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