Hey music lovers! Today, we're diving into the classic Hanson tune, "I Will Come to You." If you've ever wanted to strum along to this iconic 90s ballad, you're in the right place. This guide will walk you through the chords, song structure, and some helpful tips to make your rendition sound fantastic. So grab your guitar, tune up, and let’s get started!

Introduction to "I Will Come to You"

"I Will Come to You" is one of Hanson's more mellow and emotionally resonant hits, showcasing their versatility beyond their pop anthem "MMMBop." Released in 1997, this song quickly became a favorite for its heartfelt lyrics and soothing melody. It's a fantastic choice for guitarists of all levels looking to add a touching piece to their repertoire. The song’s structure is relatively straightforward, making it accessible for beginners while still offering enough musical depth to keep more experienced players engaged.

Why This Song?

This track is not just another 90s throwback; it's a masterclass in creating emotion through simplicity. The chord progression is beautifully crafted, allowing the melody to soar and the lyrics to resonate deeply. For guitarists, it’s an excellent exercise in dynamics and controlled strumming, helping you develop a better feel for playing softer, more sensitive pieces. Plus, learning this song gives you a chance to connect with a piece of music history that still touches hearts today.

Chords Used in "I Will Come to You"

Before we dive into the song structure, let’s break down the chords you'll need to know. The song primarily uses a handful of common chords, making it relatively easy to pick up. Here’s a rundown:

• G Major (G): 320003
• D Major (D): XX0232
• Em (E minor): 022000
• C Major (C): X32010
• Am (A minor): X02210

These chords form the backbone of the song, creating its gentle and melancholic atmosphere. If you're new to guitar, these are excellent chords to practice as they appear in countless other songs as well.

Tips for Mastering the Chords

1. Smooth Transitions: Practice switching between the chords smoothly. Use a metronome to keep a steady beat and gradually increase the tempo as you become more comfortable.
2. Clean Sound: Ensure that each chord rings clearly. Place your fingers just behind the frets to get a clean, buzz-free sound.
3. Finger Placement: Pay attention to your finger placement. Consistent and accurate finger positions will make chord changes faster and more reliable.

Song Structure

Understanding the structure of "I Will Come to You" will help you learn and memorize the song more efficiently. The song follows a standard verse-chorus structure with a bridge that adds emotional depth. Here’s the breakdown:

1. Verse: G - D - Em - C
2. Chorus: G - D - Em - C - G - D - C
3. Bridge: Am - Em - C - D

Detailed Breakdown

• Verse: The verse introduces the emotional core of the song. The G - D - Em - C progression creates a feeling of longing and vulnerability. Focus on a gentle strumming pattern to enhance the delicate nature of the verse.
• Chorus: The chorus is where the emotional release happens. Repeating the G - D - Em - C progression, with an added G - D - C at the end, emphasizes the promise of support and comfort. Strum with slightly more intensity to build the emotional impact.
• Bridge: The bridge provides a contrast to the verse and chorus. The Am - Em - C - D progression introduces a sense of introspection and vulnerability. Use a lighter touch to convey the fragility of the lyrics.

Strumming Pattern

For "I Will Come to You," a simple and gentle strumming pattern works best. Here’s a suggested pattern:

Down, Down-Up, Up-Down-Up

This pattern allows you to maintain a steady rhythm while adding some subtle variation. Focus on keeping your strumming relaxed and even to create a smooth and flowing sound. Experiment with different dynamics to add depth and emotion to your playing.

Tips for Perfecting Your Strumming

1. Relax Your Wrist: A relaxed wrist is essential for smooth strumming. Avoid tensing up, and let your wrist move freely.
2. Use Dynamics: Vary the intensity of your strumming to create dynamic contrast. Play softer during the verses and build up during the choruses.
3. Practice Regularly: Consistent practice is key to developing a solid strumming technique. Start slow and gradually increase the tempo as you become more comfortable.

Putting It All Together

Now that you know the chords, song structure, and strumming pattern, it’s time to put it all together. Start by practicing the chord progressions slowly. Once you’re comfortable with the chord changes, add in the strumming pattern. Gradually increase the tempo until you can play along with the original recording.

Tips for a Great Performance

1. Listen to the Original: Pay close attention to the original recording to get a feel for the song’s dynamics and phrasing.
2. Sing Along: Singing along while you play will help you internalize the song and improve your timing.
3. Record Yourself: Recording yourself playing can help you identify areas for improvement. Listen back and focus on refining your technique.

Advanced Techniques

Once you’ve mastered the basic chords and strumming pattern, you can explore some advanced techniques to add more flavor to your performance. Here are a few ideas:

1. Fingerpicking: Try fingerpicking the chords instead of strumming. This can add a delicate and intimate feel to the song.
2. Chord Embellishments: Add embellishments to the chords, such as hammer-ons, pull-offs, or passing tones. This can add interest and complexity to the song.
3. Alternate Tunings: Experiment with alternate tunings to create a different sound. For example, try tuning your guitar to DADGAD for a more open and resonant sound.

Conclusion

Learning "I Will Come to You" by Hanson is a rewarding experience for any guitarist. The song’s simple yet emotional chord progression and heartfelt lyrics make it a pleasure to play. By following this guide, you’ll be well on your way to mastering this classic 90s hit. So keep practicing, have fun, and enjoy sharing your music with others.

Final Tips for Success

1. Be Patient: Learning guitar takes time and effort. Don’t get discouraged if you don’t sound perfect right away. Just keep practicing, and you’ll gradually improve.
2. Have Fun: Playing music should be enjoyable. Choose songs that you love, and don’t be afraid to experiment and express yourself.
3. Share Your Music: Share your music with others. Play for your friends and family, or even post videos online. Sharing your music can be a great way to connect with others and build your confidence.

Now, go forth and conquer those chords! Happy playing, guys!