Hey Friend,
The song is in the key of E, and the chords throughout stay within the key with the exception of a C major chord in the chorus.
Here’s a reminder of the chords we find in E:
I IIm IIIm IV V VIm VII°
E F#m G#m A B C#m D#°
As I mentioned yesterday, the basic format of the progression follows a 12 bar blues, where we start on the I, go to the IV and eventually get to the V.
The song has a fast tempo, so you don’t get the Blues feel even though the tones are there. The quick beat lends itself well to a 50s style Rock & Roll tune.
The fact that they utilized dominant 7th chords as opposed to major chords really speaks to the Rock & Roll vibe. By adding the minor 7 note to the major chords, it introduced attitude and energy that the straight major chords couldn’t provide.
That little bit of dissonance from the minor 7 note makes a huge difference to the overall feel of the song, making it scrappy and fun.
For this first segment, we’re focused on the first 8 measures, using dominant 7th chords exclusively. The chords are E7, A7 and B7.
Take a look at the tabs and listen through the MP3. If you need to slow down the tempo to learn the chord changes, just follow the PDF until your fingers know the chords.
Heads up, I will be traveling starting Thursday, so you may see some old lessons pop up in email, just because I may be offline for a few days.
We’ll look at what “I Saw Her Standing There” might have sounded like if The Beatles hadn’t infused the Rock & Roll vibe into the song tomorrow.
Peace~
Dave
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