The first time I heard the chorus of “Who You Say I Am,” I felt a surge of emotion. The words “I am who You say I am,” resonated so deeply in my heart, reminding me of the unwavering love and acceptance found in Jesus. The song, penned by Hillsong Worship, has become a powerful anthem for countless people, and learning how to play it on the guitar became a personal quest for me.
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I was initially intimidated by the chords, thinking they would be too complex for a beginner like myself. But I discovered that while the arrangement is intricate, the individual chords themselves are relatively simple. With some practice and determination, I learned how to play this beautiful song, and in doing so, gained a deeper understanding of its meaning and message.
Delving into the Structure and Chords of “Who You Say I Am”
The song’s construction is simple yet powerful, built around a repetitive verse-chorus structure. The verses are quieter, emphasizing the lyrics, while the chorus explodes with uplifting energy, carrying the core message of the song.
Musically, “Who You Say I Am” features a mix of familiar and unique chords: It begins with a straightforward sequence of **G**, **D**, **Em**, and **C**, chords common to many popular songs, making it easier for beginners to learn. However, its unique touch comes from its progression to **E7** and **Bm7**, introducing a touch of melancholic beauty. While these may be less familiar to newcomers, they add depth and emotion to the song’s overall feel.
Unveiling the Chords and Progression
Here’s a breakdown of the chords used in the song:
- **G:** This is a major chord, often associated with feelings of joy and optimism. It’s the main chord used in the verse and chorus, setting the overall mood of the song.
- **D:** A powerful major chord often used for resolution and stability, it acts as a grounding element within the chord progression.
- **Em:** A minor chord that adds slightly sorrowful or bittersweet feeling to the music. It’s used in the verse, providing contrast to the overall bright tone of the song.
- **C:** Similar to the G chord, this major chord brings a sense of brightness and upliftment. It is used in both the verse and chorus.
- **E7:** This dominant chord is often associated with anticipation and unresolved tension. It offers a bridge from one section of the song to the next, adding a layer of complexity to the arrangement.
- **Bm7:** A minor seventh chord, it has a slightly more melancholic and introspective sound compared to the other chords. It’s used in the chorus, creating a moment of reflection and deepening the emotional impact.
Learning to Play “Who You Say I Am”: Tips for Beginners
Playing “Who You Say I Am” is a rewarding experience for guitarists of all levels. Here are some tips for beginners looking to learn this song:
- **Start with the basic chords:** Focus on learning the main chords like G, D, C, and Em first. Practice them individually until you can switch between them smoothly.
- **Use a chord chart:** Utilize a chord chart that shows the finger placement for each chord. There are numerous free resources available online.
- **Practice regularly:** Consistency is key to learning guitar. Set aside dedicated time for practice each day, even if it’s just for 15 minutes.
- **Break down the song:** Don’t try to learn the entire song at once. Break it down into smaller sections, focusing on mastering each part individually before putting them together.
- **Use online resources:** There are countless online resources, such as video tutorials, interactive chord charts, and even backing tracks available to help you learn the song.
Remember, patience and practice are essential when learning a new song. Don’t get discouraged if you don’t master it immediately. As you continue practicing, you’ll find that the chords become more familiar and easier to play.
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FAQs about “Who You Say I Am”
Here are some frequently asked questions about “Who You Say I Am”:
- What is the meaning of the song?
- The song is a powerful declaration of faith, emphasizing the importance of finding our identity in God’s love and acceptance. It encourages listeners to embrace the truth of who they are in Christ, regardless of their past or present circumstances.
- Is “Who You Say I Am” a difficult song to learn on the guitar?
- While it does not use overly complex chords, the song can be challenging for beginners due to its fast tempo and intricate arrangement. However, with consistent practice, it becomes progressively easier to play.
- Are there any resources available for learning “Who You Say I Am” on the guitar?
- Yes, many resources are available online, including video tutorials, interactive chord charts, and backing tracks. These can be great tools for beginners and experienced guitarists alike.
Who You Say I Am Guitar Chords
Conclusion
Learning to play “Who You Say I Am” on the guitar is a journey that can be both challenging and rewarding. The song’s message of faith and self-discovery will resonate with you on a deeper level as you learn the chords and become comfortable playing it. Do you enjoy listening to and learning popular hymns like “Who You Say I Am?”