Hey music lovers! Today, we're diving deep into a timeless classic, "Personal Jesus", as covered by the legendary Johnny Cash. This song, originally by Depeche Mode, got a whole new life with Cash's unique country-blues spin. If you're looking to learn how to play this iconic version, you've come to the right place. We'll break down the chords, strumming patterns, and overall feel of the song so you can impress your friends (or just yourself) with your newfound skills. So grab your guitar, tune up, and let's get started!

The Story Behind the Song

Before we jump into the chords, let's take a quick detour into the fascinating backstory of "Personal Jesus." Depeche Mode released the song in 1989, and it quickly became a massive hit, known for its catchy guitar riff and somewhat controversial lyrics. The song explores the idea of finding personal saviors in different forms, whether it be a lover, a friend, or even a celebrity. It's a commentary on the human need for someone to look up to and rely on.

Fast forward to 2002, and Johnny Cash, in his later years, decided to cover the song for his album "American IV: The Man Comes Around." Cash's version is starkly different from Depeche Mode's synth-heavy original. He strips it down to its bare bones, using just his acoustic guitar, a simple drum beat, and his unmistakable voice. The result is a haunting and powerful rendition that resonates with a sense of vulnerability and wisdom. It’s a testament to Cash's ability to take any song and make it his own.

Why This Song Matters

"Personal Jesus" holds a special place in music history for a few reasons. First, it showcases the brilliance of songwriting and how a great song can transcend genres. Depeche Mode's electronic version and Johnny Cash's acoustic rendition are worlds apart, yet both are incredibly compelling. Second, it highlights the power of interpretation. Cash didn't just copy the song; he reimagined it, bringing his own life experiences and musical sensibilities to the table. This is a crucial lesson for any musician: don't be afraid to put your own spin on things.

Johnny Cash's Chord Progression

Alright, let's get down to the nitty-gritty: the chords! Johnny Cash's version of "Personal Jesus" is relatively simple, which makes it perfect for beginner and intermediate guitarists. The song primarily revolves around four chords:

• A (A Major)
• E (E Major)
• D (D Major)
• G (G Major)

These are all common chords that most guitarists learn early on, so you're probably already familiar with them. If not, don't worry! We'll quickly review how to play each one.

Chord Diagrams and Finger Placement

Here’s a quick refresher on how to play these chords:

• A Major:
  • Index finger on the 2nd fret of the D string.
  • Middle finger on the 2nd fret of the G string.
  • Ring finger on the 2nd fret of the B string.
• E Major:
  • Index finger on the 1st fret of the G string.
  • Middle finger on the 2nd fret of the A string.
  • Ring finger on the 2nd fret of the D string.
• D Major:
  • Index finger on the 2nd fret of the G string.
  • Middle finger on the 2nd fret of the high E string.
  • Ring finger on the 3rd fret of the B string.
• G Major:
  • Middle finger on the 5th string 2nd fret.
  • Index finger on the 6th string 3rd fret.
  • Ring finger on the 1st string 3rd fret.

Chord Progression Breakdown

The main chord progression for "Personal Jesus" goes like this:

A - E - G - D

This sequence repeats throughout most of the song. There might be slight variations here and there, but this is the foundation. Practice transitioning smoothly between these chords. The key is to keep your fingers close to the fretboard and anticipate the next chord change.

Strumming Pattern

The strumming pattern in Johnny Cash's version is relatively straightforward. It's a slow, deliberate strum that emphasizes the downbeats. A common pattern you can use is:

Down - Down - Up - Down - Up

But honestly, feel free to experiment. The beauty of Cash's version is its simplicity, so don't overthink it. Focus on keeping a steady rhythm and letting the chords ring out. You can also try adding some palm muting to give it that signature Cash sound. Palm muting involves resting the side of your strumming hand lightly on the strings near the bridge of the guitar to dampen the sound slightly.

Tips for Playing Like Johnny Cash

To really nail the Johnny Cash vibe, here are a few tips to keep in mind:

• Keep it Simple: Cash's style was all about simplicity. Don't try to overcomplicate the song with fancy chords or strumming patterns. Focus on the core chords and a steady rhythm.
• Emphasize the Vocals: Cash's voice was his signature. When you're playing and singing, make sure your vocals are clear and expressive. Channel your inner Man in Black!
• Use Dynamics: Pay attention to the dynamics of the song. There are moments where Cash's version is quiet and introspective, and others where it builds to a powerful crescendo. Use your strumming and singing to reflect these changes.
• Add Some Bluesy Touches: Cash often incorporated blues elements into his music. Try adding some subtle blues licks or bends to the chords to give it that extra bit of flavor.
• Feel the Emotion: More than anything, Cash's music was about conveying emotion. When you're playing "Personal Jesus," try to connect with the lyrics and the overall mood of the song. Let your emotions guide your playing.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

• Rushing the Tempo: One of the biggest mistakes people make when learning this song is rushing the tempo. Cash's version is slow and deliberate, so make sure you're keeping a steady pace.
• Overcomplicating the Strumming: As mentioned earlier, simplicity is key. Don't try to add too many fancy strumming patterns. Stick to the basics and focus on keeping a solid rhythm.
• Ignoring Dynamics: Neglecting the dynamics of the song can make it sound flat and uninteresting. Pay attention to the quiet and loud moments and adjust your playing accordingly.
• Not Tuning Your Guitar: This might seem obvious, but it's crucial. Make sure your guitar is properly tuned before you start playing. Otherwise, the chords won't sound right.

Adding Your Own Personal Touch

Once you've mastered the basic chords and strumming pattern, feel free to add your own personal touch to the song. Experiment with different strumming patterns, add some fingerpicking, or even try transposing the song to a different key that better suits your vocal range. The possibilities are endless!

Exploring Differentのアレンジ

Consider listening to other covers of "Personal Jesus" to get inspiration. There are countless versions out there, ranging from acoustic to electronic to rock. Pay attention to what other artists have done with the song and see if you can incorporate any of their ideas into your own version.

Practice Tips and Exercises

• Start Slow: When you're first learning the song, start at a slow tempo and gradually increase the speed as you become more comfortable with the chords and strumming pattern.
• Use a Metronome: A metronome is a great tool for improving your timing. Practice playing the song along with a metronome to ensure you're keeping a steady rhythm.
• Record Yourself: Recording yourself playing can be a valuable learning experience. It allows you to hear your playing from an objective perspective and identify areas where you can improve.
• Practice Regularly: The key to mastering any song is consistent practice. Set aside some time each day to work on "Personal Jesus," and you'll be playing it like a pro in no time.

Final Thoughts

Learning to play Johnny Cash's version of "Personal Jesus" is a rewarding experience for any guitarist. It's a relatively simple song that allows you to focus on the fundamentals of rhythm, dynamics, and emotion. Plus, it's a great way to pay tribute to one of the greatest musicians of all time. So grab your guitar, start practicing, and get ready to channel your inner Man in Black! And that's it, guys! Have fun playing, and keep rockin'!