Have you ever listened to a song and been instantly captivated, wanting nothing more than to strum those chords yourself? For many, that song is “This Is How I Fight My Battles” by The Used. Its raw emotion and the unmistakable sound of the guitar make it a powerful anthem for anyone who’s ever felt lost or alone. But for guitarists, it can be a bit of a challenge to tackle this song, especially with its complex chord progressions.
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If you’re ready to tackle the chords of “This Is How I Fight My Battles,” you’ve come to the right place. This article is your guide to conquering those intricate chords, understanding the song’s structure, and expressing your own musical interpretation. Whether you’re a beginner or experienced guitarist, this guide will equip you with the knowledge and confidence to rock out to this iconic track.
Breaking Down the Chords
The heart of “This Is How I Fight My Battles” lies in its unique chord progressions. Unlike many pop songs with simple, repetitive structures, this song ventures into a more complex territory, making it both challenging and rewarding to play. Let’s dive into the chords that make up this incredible song.
The Main Chords:
- C Major: A foundational chord that provides stability and anchors the progression. It’s played with your index finger on the first fret of the second string, your middle finger on the second fret of the fourth string, and your ring finger on the third fret of the fifth string.
- G Major: Another essential chord in the song, bringing a brighter and more upbeat feel. It’s played with your index finger on the third fret of the sixth string, your middle finger on the second fret of the first string, and your ring finger on the third fret of the second string.
- Am (A Minor): The minor chord adds a darker, more melancholic element to the progression. It’s played with your index finger on the second fret of the second string, your middle finger on the first fret of the fourth string, and your ring finger on the second fret of the fifth string.
- Em (E Minor): Similar to A minor, E minor brings a sense of angst and introspection. It’s played with your index finger on the first fret of the second string, your middle finger on the second fret of the fourth string, and your ring finger on the second fret of the third string.
Navigating the Song’s Structure
While the main chords are relatively simple, the real challenge lies in how they are strung together. “This Is How I Fight My Battles” employs a recurring formula that creates the song’s distinct and memorable feel. The typical progression goes as follows:
Verse: C – G – Am – Em.
Chorus: C – G – Am – Em – “This is how I fight my battles” C – G – Am – Em.
Within this structure, there are subtle variations that make it more dynamic and captivating. Listen carefully to hear the precise rhythm and minor chord changes that create the unique texture of this song.
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Tips for Successfully Mastering the Chords
Playing “This Is How I Fight My Battles” can be a little daunting at first, but with these tips, you’ll be rocking out to this classic in no time.
1. Start Slow and Practice Regularly:
Don’t try to rush through the song at full speed. Take your time to practice each chord individually, focusing on smooth transitions and accurate finger placement. Practice makes perfect, so dedicate consistent time to honing your skills.
2. Break It Down:
Break the song into manageable sections. Focus on mastering the verse first, then the chorus, and gradually build up to playing the entire song. This approach prevents overwhelm and allows you to develop your skills gradually.
3. Use a Chord Chart:
There are many available chord charts online that show the finger placement for each chord in “This Is How I Fight My Battles.” These visuals are invaluable for learning the precise finger positions and making sure you’re getting the right sound.
4. Listen and Learn:
Don’t just rely on chord charts, listen carefully to the recording. Pay attention to the rhythm, strumming pattern, and how the chords connect with each other. Use your ears to guide your practice and ensure your playing matches the original track.
Adding Your Own Style
Once you can play the basic chords and structure of “This Is How I Fight My Battles,” it’s time to infuse your own personality into your performance. This is where you can experiment and find what feels most authentic to you.
1. Explore Different Strumming Patterns:
Experiment with various strumming patterns to add dynamics and rhythm to the song. Try using different combinations of downstrokes, upstrokes, and muting techniques to create a unique sound.
2. Play with Timing:
The original song has a certain tempo, but don’t be afraid to experiment with slightly faster or slower tempos to create a unique interpretation.
3. Add Your Own Vocal Harmony:
If you’re comfortable with singing, try harmonizing with the lead vocal. Adding your own vocal harmony can create a richer and more personal rendition of the song.
This Is How I Fight My Battles Chords
The Enduring Power of “This Is How I Fight My Battles”
“This Is How I Fight My Battles” is more than just a catchy song; it’s a testament to the raw emotions of youth, the struggles of finding your place in the world, and the power of music to connect us through shared experiences. Mastering its chords is not just a technical achievement; it’s a way to tap into those sentiments and express your own story through the language of music.
As you continue your journey with this song, remember to have fun, express yourself, and enjoy the process of creating your own unique rendition of “This Is How I Fight My Battles.” This song is a journey, a musical tapestry that will evolve and grow with your own personal growth as a musician.
