Locked Out Of Heaven Chords: Bruno Mars Guitar Tutorial

by Jhon Lennon 56 views

Hey guys! Today, we're diving into the awesome world of Bruno Mars with a super fun and energetic tune: Locked Out of Heaven. This song is a total blast to play on guitar, and we’re going to break down the chords, strumming patterns, and some cool tips to make sure you nail it. So, grab your guitar, tune up, and let’s get started!

Getting Started with Locked Out of Heaven

Before we jump into the chords, let’s talk a bit about what makes Locked Out of Heaven such a hit. Released in 2012, it’s known for its infectious groove and retro vibe, drawing inspiration from The Police and other new wave bands. The song’s catchy chorus and driving rhythm make it a crowd-pleaser, and it’s a fantastic addition to any guitarist's repertoire. Understanding the song’s structure and feel will help you play it with the right energy and attitude. We'll cover everything from the basic chord progression to some cool embellishments you can add to make it your own. Whether you're a beginner or an experienced player, there's something in this tutorial for everyone.

Tuning Your Guitar

First things first, make sure your guitar is properly tuned. Standard tuning is E, A, D, G, B, E (from the thickest string to the thinnest). A well-tuned guitar is crucial for playing the correct chords and making the song sound its best. There are plenty of free tuning apps available for your smartphone, or you can use an electronic tuner. Double-check each string to ensure they’re perfectly in tune before moving on. A slight adjustment can make a big difference in the overall sound, so take your time and get it right. Trust me, your ears (and your audience) will thank you!

The Basic Chords

Locked Out of Heaven primarily uses four chords, which makes it relatively easy to learn. The chords are:

  • D Major (D): 200232
  • Em (E minor): 022000
  • Bm (B minor): x24432
  • A Major (A): x02220

These chords are common and should be familiar to most guitar players. If you're new to guitar, take some time to practice transitioning between these chords smoothly. The key to mastering any song is being able to switch chords quickly and cleanly. Use a chord chart or a guitar tab to help you visualize the finger placements. Start slowly, focusing on accuracy, and gradually increase your speed as you become more comfortable. Remember, practice makes perfect!

Breaking Down the Chords

Let’s take a closer look at each chord and how to play them:

D Major (D)

The D Major chord is a bright and happy chord that forms the foundation of many songs. To play it:

  1. Place your index finger on the 3rd string (G string) at the 2nd fret.
  2. Place your middle finger on the 1st string (high E string) at the 2nd fret.
  3. Place your ring finger on the 2nd string (B string) at the 3rd fret.

Strum all strings except the 6th string (low E string). Make sure each note rings clearly. If you’re having trouble, try adjusting your finger positions slightly until you get a clean sound. The D Major chord is a staple in many genres, so mastering it will open up a whole world of songs for you to play. Practice transitioning to and from this chord with the others in the song to build your muscle memory.

Em (E minor)

The E minor chord has a more melancholic and introspective feel compared to D Major. To play it:

  1. Place your middle finger on the 5th string (A string) at the 2nd fret.
  2. Place your ring finger on the 4th string (D string) at the 2nd fret.

Strum all six strings. The E minor chord is another essential chord for guitarists, and it’s used extensively in various styles of music. Pay attention to the placement of your fingers to ensure a clear sound. Experiment with different finger pressures to find what works best for you. Like with the D Major chord, practice transitioning to and from the E minor chord to improve your chord changes.

Bm (B minor)

The B minor chord can be a bit tricky for beginners, but with practice, you’ll get the hang of it. This is a barre chord, which means you need to use one finger to press down multiple strings at the same fret. Here’s how to play it:

  1. Use your index finger to barre across all six strings at the 2nd fret.
  2. Place your ring finger on the 4th string (D string) at the 4th fret.
  3. Place your pinky finger on the 3rd string (G string) at the 4th fret.
  4. Place your middle finger on the 5th string (A string) at the 3rd fret.

Strum all six strings. Make sure your barre is firm and consistent to produce a clear sound. Barre chords can be challenging at first, but they are a fundamental skill for guitarists. Start by practicing the barre itself, making sure all strings ring out clearly. Then, add the other fingers to form the B minor chord. Don’t get discouraged if it takes time to master; keep practicing, and you’ll eventually get it.

A Major (A)

The A Major chord is a bright and powerful chord that adds a lot of energy to the song. To play it:

  1. Place your index finger on the 2nd string (B string) at the 2nd fret.
  2. Place your middle finger on the 4th string (D string) at the 2nd fret.
  3. Place your ring finger on the 3rd string (G string) at the 2nd fret.

Strum all strings except the 6th string (low E string). The A Major chord is another essential chord in many genres. Ensure your fingers are arched to avoid muting any strings. Practice transitioning between the A Major chord and the other chords in the song to improve your chord changes. With these chords under your belt, you’ll be well on your way to playing Locked Out of Heaven.

Strumming Pattern

The strumming pattern for Locked Out of Heaven is fairly straightforward but has a driving rhythm that gives the song its signature sound. A common strumming pattern that works well is:

D – D – U – U – D – U

Where:

  • D = Downstroke
  • U = Upstroke

Practice this strumming pattern slowly at first, focusing on maintaining a steady rhythm. Once you feel comfortable, gradually increase the tempo. Pay attention to the accents in the song, which emphasize certain beats and give the song its groove. Experiment with different strumming patterns to find what works best for you. Some players prefer to add a slight palm mute to give the song a more percussive feel. The key is to keep the rhythm consistent and maintain the energy of the song.

Tips for Mastering the Strumming

  • Use a metronome: A metronome is an invaluable tool for developing your rhythm. Start at a slow tempo and gradually increase the speed as you become more comfortable.
  • Practice regularly: Consistent practice is key to improving your strumming technique. Even just a few minutes of practice each day can make a big difference.
  • Listen to the song: Pay close attention to the rhythm and feel of the song. Try to emulate the strumming pattern of the original recording.
  • Relax your wrist: Tension in your wrist can lead to fatigue and make it difficult to maintain a steady rhythm. Focus on keeping your wrist relaxed and loose.

Song Structure and Chord Progression

Locked Out of Heaven follows a simple but effective song structure. Here’s a breakdown of the main sections and chord progressions:

  • Intro: D – Em – Bm – A
  • Verse: D – Em – Bm – A
  • Pre-Chorus: Em – Bm – A – D
  • Chorus: D – Em – Bm – A
  • Bridge: Bm – A – Em – D

Understanding the song structure will help you anticipate the chord changes and play along more smoothly. The chord progression is repetitive, which makes it easy to memorize and internalize. Pay attention to the transitions between sections, as they often involve subtle changes in dynamics or rhythm. By understanding the song structure, you’ll be able to play along with the recording and improvise your own variations.

Putting It All Together

Now that you know the chords, strumming pattern, and song structure, it’s time to put it all together. Start by playing along with the original recording of Locked Out of Heaven. Pay attention to how your playing aligns with the song and make adjustments as needed. Don’t worry if you don’t get it perfect right away; it takes time and practice to master a song. Focus on maintaining a steady rhythm and making clean chord changes. As you become more comfortable, you can start to add your own personal touches to the song.

Advanced Techniques and Tips

For those looking to add some flair to their playing, here are a few advanced techniques and tips:

Adding Embellishments

  • Palm Muting: Lightly resting the edge of your palm on the strings near the bridge can create a muted, percussive sound that adds a lot of groove to the song.
  • Ghost Notes: Incorporating ghost notes (lightly strummed or muted notes) can add a subtle rhythmic complexity to your playing.
  • Chord Variations: Experiment with different voicings of the chords to add variety to the song. For example, you could try playing a Dsus4 chord instead of a D Major chord in certain sections.

Improvisation

Once you’re comfortable with the basic chords and strumming pattern, try improvising your own variations. You could add fills between chord changes, create your own strumming patterns, or even write your own solo. Improvisation is a great way to develop your creativity and make the song your own.

Playing with a Band

Locked Out of Heaven is a fantastic song to play with a band. The driving rhythm and catchy chorus make it a crowd-pleaser, and it’s sure to get people dancing. If you’re playing with a band, make sure to communicate with the other members to ensure everyone is on the same page. Pay attention to the dynamics of the song and work together to create a cohesive and energetic performance.

Conclusion

So there you have it! You’ve learned the chords, strumming pattern, and song structure for Locked Out of Heaven by Bruno Mars. With practice and dedication, you’ll be rocking this song in no time. Remember to have fun and enjoy the process of learning. Keep practicing, and don’t be afraid to experiment and make the song your own. Now go grab your guitar and start playing! Rock on, guys!