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Play True Colors Guitar Intro: GUITAR

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True Colors Guitar Intro

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True colors Guitar intro: Fingerings for arpeggios

To interpret True Colors by Cyndi Lauper in this version adapted to the guitar, here are several essential tips so that you can play this classic to perfection.

To play this adaptation of the Intro of True Colors on the guitar, we enter the timeless universe of pop music, and it is a musical experience that requires a careful and sensitive approach.

Look at and practice the chords, observe which finger is dedicated to which string, then synchronize the two positions, chord by chord.

True colors Guitar intro: The underlying chords

When approaching this arpeggio, keep in mind that the magic lies in the simplicity of the four chords that underlie it. You have the freedom to choose how you want to approach each chord – no need to play every note in standard position. If you feel comfortable playing just the essential notes, this can be enough to bring the arpeggio to life.

Let's start by diving into the Am7 chord, a true musical gem. It is a minor seventh tetrad, which means that it arises from the A minor chord to which we add a note, the minor seventh. This minor seventh brings emotional depth, creating a rich and complex sound.

Next, we explore the G/B, a G major chord with an interesting nuance. Instead of playing G as the lowest note, we opt for a B. It's like removing your middle finger, adding subtlety to this familiar chord.

The last two chords, C major and F major, provide a seamless transition into the arpeggio. These chords provide tonal stability, creating balance within the overall context of “True Colors”.

Here are several essential tips that will help you play this classic to perfection and capture all the emotion of this song.

  1. Understand song structure : Before you start playing, take the time to understand the structure of the song. Analyzes verses, choruses, bridges and transitions. This will help you anticipate changes in tone and rhythm.
  2. Bring out the emotion : “True Colors” is an emotional song, so make sure you play with sensitivity. Adapt your playing based on the lyrics to express the message of the song. Play softer for more intimate passages and increase the intensity when the song demands it.
  3. Practice arpeggios with your fingers : As mentioned before, the arpeggios are essential in this song. Practice playing these arpeggios precisely and smoothly. Make sure each note is clear and well articulated.
  4. Hand synchronization : Synchronization between the left hand (which presses the strings) and the right hand (which performs the arpeggios) is crucial. This is what will create this sweet melody. Practice slowly at first to coordinate your hands well, then gradually increase the speed.
  5. Use dynamics : Exploit the nuances by using the pick or by playing with the strength of your fingers to obtain variations in volume and intonation. This will bring dynamics to your interpretation.
  6. Let the notes resonate : Certain notes must be left suspended (“let ring” technique). Be sure to let them resonate to create a rich, enveloping sound.
  7. customize your guitar playing : Although we talk about playing “to perfection”, don't forget to add your own personal touch to the performance. This is what will make your version of “True Colors” something special.
  8. Record yourself and listen back : Record your performance so you can listen to it carefully. This will allow you to identify areas for improvement and perfect your game over time.

By merging technique and personal expression, you will thrill True Colors in a way that is unique to you.

True colors Guitar intro: Fingering details

The fingerings that you will find noted on the score are as follows:

  • P for thumb.
  • I for index.
  • M for middle finger.
  • A for the ring finger.

These fingering directions are usually provided on the sheet music itself, which will let you know which finger to use for each note. Although the chords are shown on the sheet music, in this performance we will only play the individual notes, avoiding playing the full chord positions. Our goal is to play a specific selection of notes to create the song's distinctive arpeggio effect.

True colors Guitar intro: Hand coordination

One of the most important challenges of this performance lies in the perfect coordination between your left hand (which presses the strings) and your right hand (which performs the arpeggios). This can be the most difficult challenge, as it requires precise timing between both hands to achieve the desired sound.†ar

Don't forget to let all the notes sound when indicated (use of the “let ring” technique). This will help create the characteristic sound of the arpeggio. Some notes will be played successively, while others will be played simultaneously.

 

👉 If you like pop guitar arpeggios check it outGuitar Arpeggio from Let me down Slowly