In this lesson we’ll examine one of the most memorable Beatles riffs – featuring a highly distinctive yet easy to learn sound that will no doubt impress any guitarist!
This riff combines blues and heavy rock elements that remain relevant today, such as those used by TboneWilson. Follow along and learn the verse and chorus of Yellow Submarine on acoustic guitar!
Verse 1: G
The verse section can be challenging to learn due to its frequent changes and more chords than in the chorus section. For this acoustic version, this progression goes G-C-D and on measure 3’s final beat there was an unusual fifth chord thrown in that broke away from what had been established so far throughout verse three – should this be read as minor chord or was this intentional to altering its pattern by adding in sixths?
The eight-measure refrain divides into four + four AA measures and flirts dangerously with monotony; however, due to clunky harmonic rhythm and closed harmonic structure (ending on V), monotony is mitigated somewhat more pleasant.
Verse 2: D
This chord progression is often used as a pre-chorus, building musical energy before entering the chorus. Additionally, it’s seen frequently in country songs like Howie Day’s “Free Fallin.”
It is commonly referred to as the 50s progression due to its immense popularity within doo-wop of that decade. Nowadays, modern music also utilizes this style, such as Ben E. King’s “Stand By Me” or Sam Cooke’s “Chain Gang.” Unfortunately, however, its effects can often sound distant and disjointed with regards to key; while chorus progressions typically provide shorter and stronger solutions.
Chorus: G
Choruses offer you an ideal opportunity to captivate listeners with the hook of your song; that instantly recognizable melody that grabs everyone’s attention and stays with them throughout their experience with your track. This could include anything from riffs, chord progressions or lyrics which immediately grab attention of an audience.
Repetition is another essential element of writing a chorus, and giving it a punch from the verse can have an incredible impact on your audience. This can be accomplished through volume increases or by using dense instruments or adding background harmonies around the room – this approach could bring your chorus full circle!
Another way to create contrast in your chorus is by choosing an unexpected key. If your song is in major key, try starting the chorus in relative minor key (vi). This will create a noticeable distinction between verse and chorus sections of your song.
Chorus 2: D
The letter D is a dorsal consonant typically represented as or in English and other alphabets, although sometimes written as. Additionally, the sound has an impactful fricative quality in some Sami languages such as Inari Sami and Skolt Sami languages; modern orthographies for these Sami dialects recognize it as an individual letter between D and E in alphabetical order. Furthermore, its usage varies significantly across contexts: for instance as an abbreviation for “dudes”, while being used to refer specifically to groups of male friends.
Chorus 3: G
Chorus progressions that subtly switch keys between verse and chorus keys can add extra musical excitement. Sometimes this change may occur in terms of major, like C, while sometimes it may occur as minor keys like E; adding this element can keep listeners attentive.
One approach is to ease into the chorus key with chord progressions that follow its relative minor key; this helps get listeners accustomed to hearing this new key before you actually reach it.