Introduction
Overture 1928
Introduction
Intro Riff
Chord Sections
Whole Tone Riff in E
Solo 1-Bm Section
Solo 1-Gb Section
Solo 2
Post Solo Lick in Em
Chromatic Riff
Outro Chords
Song Demo
Overture 1928
Introduction
Intro Riff
Chord Sections
Whole Tone Riff in E
Solo 1-Bm Section
Solo 1-Gb Section
Solo 2
Post Solo Lick in Em
Chromatic Riff
Outro Chords
Song Demo
Explore More in English Songs
Introduction:
Torrins brings you an exciting guitar lesson "Just The Way You Are" by Bruno Mars, taught by expert instructor Mike Walker. This beautiful and heartfelt song is known for its simplicity and emotional depth, making it a great choice for both beginners and intermediate players. In this lesson, you'll learn two different ways to play this song with and without a capo along with essential strumming techniques and dynamics.
Fun Fact: "Just The Way You Are" was Bruno Mars' debut solo single, earning him the Grammy Award for Best Male Pop Vocal Performance at the 53rd Annual Grammy Awards. This song marked the beginning of his rise to global stardom!
Chords Used in Just The Way You Are Guitar Lesson
With Capo (3rd fret):
- Mike demonstrates how to play the song with chords like Bm, Double Stack G, and others.
- The non-capo version of the song includes just a handful of chords, with one being a barre chord (Bm). However, Mike Walker demonstrates an easy way to play it, making it accessible for all skill levels.
Without Capo:
- Bb (barre chord), F, and others.
- This version features slightly trickier chord shapes, but the lesson breaks down smooth transitions between them.
Strumming Pattern
The song follows a consistent and simple strumming pattern: DDDUDUDD.
Mike explains how to approach string roots and strumming accents to enhance your playing. Tune in to the lesson to learn these techniques in detail.
Pro Tip: Since the song is highly repetitive, dynamics play a crucial role. Dynamics keep the song engaging and expressive. The verse is played slightly louder than the chorus to create contrast and keep the song engaging.
Capo vs. Non-Capo Version
This lesson provides two approaches:
- Capo Version: A beginner-friendly arrangement with simple chord transitions.
- Non-Capo Version: A slightly more advanced version with barre chords and intricate transitions.
Mike plays both versions along with a backing track to help tie everything together. The lyrics provided with the guitar tutorial help you follow along seamlessly, making it easier to match your playing with the vocal phrasing and timing.
Why Learn Just The Way You Are?
This lesson is perfect for players who want to master song dynamics and strumming consistency. You'll also gain experience with barre chords, making it a great stepping stone toward more advanced playing.
FAQs – Just The Way You Are Guitar Lesson
Q1. Is this song beginner-friendly?
A: Yes! The capo version makes it accessible, while the non-capo version challenges intermediate players.
Q2. Do I need a capo?
A: No, but the capo version simplifies chord shapes and makes the song easier to play.
Q4. What if I struggle with the barre chords?
A: Mike demonstrates easy ways to tackle the barre chords and some tips for smooth transitions and finger positionings.
Introduction:
Torrins brings you a classic country guitar lesson—Your Cheatin’ Heart, written and recorded by Hank Williams in 1952. Taught by Mike Dugan, this sing and play lesson breaks down the song into easy-to-follow sections, making it perfect for beginners and experienced players alike. He breaks down the chords, rhythm, and song arrangement of the song.
Fun Fact: Did you know Williams wrote this song while driving from Nashville to Shreveport with his fiancée? After calling his first wife a "cheatin’ heart," the lyrics poured and the entire song was ready within minutes.
Chords & Song Structure
This song follows a standard verse-chorus structure with a bridge in between.
- Key: The song is in the key of C major
- Verse Chords: The verse has three basic open chords. Tune into the lesson to learn them.
- Bridge Chords: Bridge includes chords like F, D7, and others.
Mike carefully breaks down finger positioning, chord transitions, and how the chords are divided across measures. He also provides alternative fingerings to make it easier for beginners.
Do you wish to learn the intricacies of Country Guitar Playing? Check out our detailed lessons to master this style!
Strumming Patterns
This song has a simple and steady strumming style, ideal for both beginners and advanced players.
- Beginner-Friendly Strumming:
- A basic downstrum-only pattern in straight 4s to help new players get comfortable.
- Advanced Strumming Pattern:
- A more dynamic down-up pattern (DDUDDDDUDD) that adds depth and groove. Mike explains the transitions and accents in detail to help you get the authentic country feel.
Sing & Play
If you want to sing while playing, Mike provides a step-by-step breakdown of how the vocals align with the chord changes. He explains:
- How to keep your strumming steady while singing
- Where to place emphasis in both lyrics and chords
- How to build confidence in singing and playing simultaneously
He suggests beginners to start with the basic strumming pattern, and once comfortable, then they can switch to the more advanced rhythm for a fuller sound.
Moreover, you can take advantage of the accompanied lyrics in the song lesson for a comprehensive learning experience.
Why Learn Your Cheatin’ Heart?
- Classic country song that strengthens rhythm guitar skills
- Great for beginners, thanks to simple chords and a steady beat
- Teaches strumming variations, helping you develop better control
- Perfect for sing-alongs, making it a fun addition to your repertoire
FAQs Your Cheatin’ Heart Guitar Lesson
Q1: Is this song beginner-friendly?
Yes! The song uses simple open chords and a steady strumming pattern, making it perfect for beginners.
Q2: What if I struggle with singing and playing at the same time?
Start with basic downstrums to get comfortable. Once you have the rhythm down, gradually add vocals.
Q3: Do I need a capo for this song?
No capo is needed. The song is played in the key of C with open chords.
Similar Metal Songs
Introduction:
Torrins brings you another electrifying guitar lesson "Crystal Mountain by Death", taught by none other than Bobby Koelble, one of the original guitarists on the track. This lesson breaks down the intricate riffs, solos, and powerful progressions that make this song a metal masterpiece.
Fun Fact: Crystal Mountain was inspired by Chuck Schuldiner’s real-life experiences with his not-so-friendly next-door neighbour. Their unpleasant interactions fueled the aggression and emotion behind this legendary track!
Tuning & Gear
- Tuning: Standard tuning down a whole step.
- Use the provided tabs for a more comprehensive learning experience.
Song Breakdown
This lesson is structured into multiple sections to make learning seamless:
- Introduction
- Intro Riff
- Verse
- Chorus
- Bridge
- Solo-Tapping Section
- Main Solo
- Acoustic Solo
- Song Demo (Chuck’s Part)
- Song Demo (Bobby’s Part)
- Full Song Demo (Combining All Parts)
Chords & Riffs in Crystal Mountain
Intro Riff
- The first 8 bars feature power chords like E, Bb, and F, with vibrato. Tune in to the lesson to learn the rest of the chords.
- The second half of the intro is harmonised down a perfect 5th.
- Scale: E Harmonic Minor.
Verse
- The Am chord is played with a variation in arpeggio.
- Includes F power chords and some single notes, along with other chords.
- Heavy distortion is used to achieve that signature Death sound.
Chorus
- Chorus features single notes and an active midsection involving the open 5th string.
- Chuck Schuldiner added an intricate melody over the chorus section. Bobby walks you through this in detail.
Bridge
- It begins with power chords in the rhythm track.
- It is layered with harmonised single-note phrases on top
Solo Sections
Tapping Solo
- This solo features harmonised tapping licks at the 12th fret.
Main Solo
- Chuck’s solo—short but iconic.
- It is in the key of G# minor.
- Uses triplets and expressive vibrato.
Acoustic Solo
- An acoustic solo is a rare touch in a Death song! Bobby demonstrates 4 simple acoustic licks to round off the song.
Final Song Demo
After breaking down every section, Bobby dedicates three lessons to the song demo:
- Chuck’s part
- His own part
- The full song, combining all elements
Why Learn Crystal Mountain?
- Learning this song will help you master intricate picking techniques.
- It will also help you understand harmonised riffs and solos.
- It will expand your knowledge of scales and metal phrasing.
FAQs – Crystal Mountain Guitar Lesson
Q1. Is this lesson suitable for beginners?
A: This lesson is best suited for intermediate to advanced players because of its complex chords and solos.
Q2. What is the most challenging part of the song?
A: The solo-tapping section and harmonised melodies require precise technique and practice.
Q3. Can I play this without tuning down?
A: Yes, you can, but tuning down a whole step helps achieve the authentic Death sound.




































