Come As You Are - Nirvana Tab: A Comprehensive Guide For Guitarists

When it comes to iconic rock songs, "Come As You Are" by Nirvana is undeniably one of the most celebrated tracks in music history. Released in 1991 as part of their legendary album "Nevermind," the song has resonated with fans worldwide for its raw emotion and powerful guitar riffs. Whether you're a beginner or an experienced guitarist, learning the "Come As You Are" tab can be an exciting journey into the world of grunge and rock music.

This article will explore everything you need to know about the "Come As You Are - Nirvana tab," including its background, structure, and techniques required to master it. We'll also provide practical tips for beginners and advanced players alike, ensuring that you can play this classic song with confidence.

By delving into the nuances of the song, from its chord progressions to its iconic riffs, we aim to equip you with the tools necessary to elevate your guitar skills. Let's dive into the world of Nirvana's "Come As You Are" and unlock its musical secrets.

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Table of Contents

• Biography of Nirvana
• Background of the Song
• Understanding the Guitar Tabs
• Chord Progressions in "Come As You Are"
• Essential Techniques for Playing the Song
• Step-by-Step Guide to Learning the Tabs
• Common Mistakes to Avoid
• Tips for Beginners
• Advanced Techniques for Experienced Players
• Conclusion

Biography of Nirvana

Nirvana was an American rock band formed by singer and guitarist Kurt Cobain and bassist Krist Novoselic in Aberdeen, Washington, in 1987. The band later added drummer Dave Grohl in 1990, completing their iconic lineup. Nirvana is often credited with popularizing the grunge genre and bringing alternative rock into the mainstream.

Here is a brief overview of the band members:

Background of the Song

"Come As You Are" was released as the second single from Nirvana's breakthrough album, "Nevermind," in 1991. The song quickly became a fan favorite and remains one of the band's most enduring tracks. Its haunting melody, combined with Cobain's introspective lyrics, makes it a standout piece in the grunge genre.

What Inspired the Song?

Kurt Cobain has mentioned that the song was inspired by a variety of themes, including the contrast between light and darkness, innocence and corruption, and the struggles of personal identity. The song's title and lyrics reflect a call for authenticity and self-acceptance, themes that resonate deeply with listeners.

Understanding the Guitar Tabs

Guitar tabs, or tablature, are a simplified form of musical notation that allows guitarists to learn songs without needing to read traditional sheet music. For "Come As You Are," the tab provides a clear roadmap for playing the song's iconic riffs and chords.

Key Elements of the Tab

• Strings and Fret Numbers: Tabs use numbers to indicate which frets to press on each string.
• Chord Shapes: The tab includes chord shapes for the main progressions in the song.
• Rhythm Indicators: Some tabs include rhythm indicators to help with timing.

Chord Progressions in "Come As You Are"

The chord progressions in "Come As You Are" are relatively simple but highly effective. The song primarily uses power chords, which are easy for beginners to learn but can still be challenging to master.

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Basic Chord Progression

The main chord progression in the song is:

• G5 - C5 - D5 - G5

These power chords create the driving rhythm that defines the song's sound.

Essential Techniques for Playing the Song

To play "Come As You Are" effectively, you'll need to master a few essential techniques:

1. Palm Muting

Palm muting is a technique where you rest the edge of your picking hand on the strings near the bridge to create a muted, percussive sound. This technique is crucial for achieving the song's signature rhythm.

2. Alternate Picking

Alternate picking involves alternating between downstrokes and upstrokes with your pick. This technique ensures smooth and consistent playing, especially during fast passages.

Step-by-Step Guide to Learning the Tabs

Here's a step-by-step guide to help you learn "Come As You Are" using the tabs:

Step 1: Familiarize Yourself with the Tabs

Start by reading through the tabs and identifying the main sections of the song, such as the intro, verse, chorus, and outro.

Step 2: Practice the Chord Progressions

Practice the chord progressions slowly, ensuring that each note rings clearly. Gradually increase your speed as you become more comfortable with the changes.

Step 3: Incorporate Techniques

Once you're comfortable with the chords, start incorporating techniques like palm muting and alternate picking to add depth and authenticity to your playing.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

When learning "Come As You Are," there are a few common mistakes to watch out for:

• Not using palm muting effectively, which can make the song sound too bright or unbalanced.
• Rushing through the chords without ensuring clean transitions.
• Ignoring the dynamics of the song, such as when to play softly or loudly.

Tips for Beginners

If you're new to guitar, here are some tips to help you learn "Come As You Are" successfully:

• Start slowly and focus on accuracy before increasing your speed.
• Practice regularly, even if it's just for a few minutes each day.
• Use a metronome to improve your timing and rhythm.

Advanced Techniques for Experienced Players

For experienced guitarists, consider adding your own flair to the song by incorporating advanced techniques:

1. Harmonics

Add natural harmonics to certain notes to create a unique, ethereal sound.

2. Alternate Tunings

Experiment with alternate tunings, such as dropped D, to explore different tonal possibilities.

Conclusion

Learning the "Come As You Are - Nirvana tab" is a rewarding experience for any guitarist, whether you're a beginner or an experienced player. By understanding the song's background, mastering its chord progressions, and applying essential techniques, you can bring this iconic track to life on your guitar.

We encourage you to practice regularly and share your progress with fellow musicians. Feel free to leave a comment below with your thoughts on the song or any tips you've discovered while learning it. Don't forget to explore other articles on our site for more guitar tips and tricks!