To create a triad, simply choose three alternate notes from a major scale and play them together – for instance if starting on C, play C, E and G together to form a C major chord.
An acoustic guitar intro can set the mood for any song beautifully, here are a few great acoustic guitar intros to bring joy.
Dire Straits – Private Investigations (Intro)
Dire Straits’s dramatic 1982 hit Private Investigations is full of elements that create an almost narrative world when listened to as the backing track alone; from suitcase clicks opening to shattering glass and keys being turned, its intricate layers create a rich experience.
Film Noir was a genre of low-budget gangster movies popular during and after World War II in America, and this song reached #2 on Billboard charts; becoming their biggest hit to date and being included on both their compilation album Love Over Gold as well as 2005 release Sultans of Swing.
Doc Watson – The Blues Is Alive And Well
Doc Watson had an approach to playing guitar that turned it into an effective percussion instrument, using fast runs while still maintaining rhythm as would any drummer would.
This album boasts some wonderful songs, including an exceptional cover of Sweet Georgia Brown that showcases inspired flatpicking. Furthermore, its sound quality is clear and natural bringing out all of the musicianship on this record.
Side two begins with Tennessee Stud, another impressive guitar piece by Doc Watson that you can hear the power and influence behind. You’ll quickly understand why so many musicians admire and revere his legacy.
James Taylor – Drive
Taylor returns to his softer rock roots on this intimate set, dialing back from his more aggressive style found on Mud Slide Slim and Gorilla albums. Ry Cooder joins on title track, while an emotional cover of Have Yourself A Merry Little Christmas proves he can still handle moving songs like these.
Taylor’s honeyed vocals and acoustic guitar playing give off an air of satisfaction throughout this album, from its catchy autobiographical tracks (many quite autobiographical) to more basic tracks like Fire and Rain, Carolina in My Mind and Frozen Man which remain American standards – it would make any musician proud!
Boston – The Boston Song (Intro)
Sting’s understated acoustic ballad wasn’t an instant hit when it first released, but has since become an instant folk classic. Although its introduction can be tricky at first, persistence will pay off; first part is simple fingerpicked acoustic guitar playing while second requires good right-hand rhythmic accuracy for driving parts.
This track, from Led Zeppelin’s third album, proves that great things can come in small packages. Jimmy Page played his custom-built acoustic and Fender XII guitar to create a gentle but powerful opening to this epic tune full of energy and intensity.
Mark Knopfler – The Blues Is Alive And Well
Knopfler remains one of the premier rockers with a penchant for folk. On Tuesday night at the Orpheum Theater he and his band delighted listeners by performing an eclectic repertoire of rare tunes.
Knopfler’s first five solo LPs explored more folky terrain than his work with Dire Straits, yet his warm baritone and vivid lyrics remain. Tracks like “Sailing to Philadelphia” and the stately Brothers In Arms-esque “Basil” stand out.
Tracker is an ambitious, accomplished album of lyrical poignancy and world weariness that ranks as one of Knopfler’s most moving efforts. Available both as standard and deluxe editions (the latter offering bonus session tracks).
Alice In Chains – Jar Of Flies
Alice In Chains made their mark during the 90s Grunge boom with their release of Jar of Flies, an EP featuring seven tracks which has stood the test of time. This more mellow and folk influenced release solidified their status as one of rock music’s premier acts.
This track begins with a soft, warm acoustic guitar intro before mournful vocals from Cantrell take over, before blues-influenced Staley adds his unique musical stylings for some variety.
This song contains some very intriguing chord voicings. To ensure success with the performance, I advise taking your time in learning it step-by-step; you won’t regret it!