Master the Fingerstyle Technique for "You and Me"

Table of Contents

1. Introduction
2. About Lance Allen
3. Learning How to Play "You and Me Together" by Dave Matthews
4. The Basics: Fingerstyle Technique
5. The Chords: G, E Minor, and C
6. The Main Theme: Playing the Intervals of Thirds
7. The Chorus: Playing the D Major Chord with Muted Strings
8. The Ending: The Rosados Technique
9. Conclusion
10. FAQ

Introduction

In this article, we will learn how to play the song "You and Me Together" by Dave Matthews. We will explore the fingerstyle technique used by Lance Allen, the chords required for the song, and the various techniques applied throughout the song. So grab your guitar and let's get started!

About Lance Allen

Lance Allen, the founder of guitarlancer.com, is a renowned guitarist and instructor. With years of experience under his belt, Lance has mastered the art of fingerstyle guitar playing. He is known for his passionate teaching style and his ability to break down complex techniques into simple and manageable steps. Lance's expertise will help us in understanding the intricacies of "You and Me Together" by Dave Matthews.

Learning How to Play "You and Me Together" by Dave Matthews

Before we dive into the song, it is essential to understand the basics of fingerstyle technique. This technique involves using your fingers to pluck the strings instead of a pick. Lance prefers this technique for "You and Me Together" because it allows for more nuance and control over the individual notes.

The Basics: Fingerstyle Technique

To start, place your thumb on the sixth string (G) and use your first and second fingers to pluck the fourth (D) and third (G) strings, respectively. This pattern establishes the main rhythm of the song, which goes like: 1-2-and-3-and-4-and.

The Chords: G, E Minor, and C

"You and Me Together" revolves around three main chords: G, E Minor, and C. To play a G chord, position your first finger on the second fret of the third string (B) and your little finger on the fourth fret of the fourth string (D). This forms a G major 7 add 9 chord. The verse starts with this chord progression.

The song later transitions to an E Minor chord, which is played similarly to the G chord but on different string sets. Practice smoothly transitioning between these chords to maintain the song's flow.

The Main Theme: Playing the Intervals of Thirds

Throughout "You and Me Together," you will notice a recurring theme of playing intervals of thirds. This technique adds depth and richness to the song's melody. To achieve this, move your fingers up the fretboard while keeping the same plucking pattern. This will create a harmonious sound and give the song its distinctive character.

The Chorus: Playing the D Major Chord with Muted Strings

During the chorus, the song shifts to a D major chord played with muted strings. Place your first finger on the tenth fret of the sixth string (E) and your third finger on the eleventh fret of the third string (G). Bend your fingers slightly to mute the neighboring strings and strum only the sixth and third strings. This technique adds a rhythmic and percussive element to the chorus.

The Ending: The Rosados Technique

The ending of "You and Me Together" features the Rosados technique. This technique involves plucking specific notes while doing a strumming motion with your fingers. Lance demonstrates this technique by playing a note followed by a quick strum. Practice this pattern by plucking the third string and simultaneously strumming the fourth, third, and second strings. This adds a dynamic and expressive element to the song's conclusion.

Conclusion

Congratulations! You have learned how to play "You and Me Together" by Dave Matthews. Remember to practice each section slowly and gradually increase your speed as you become more comfortable. By following Lance Allen's guidance and honing your fingerstyle technique, you will be able to master this beautiful song. Keep strumming and never stop exploring new tunes!

FAQ

Q: Can I use a pick instead of fingerstyle technique? A: While it is possible to use a pick for this song, using fingerstyle technique provides more control and allows for a richer sound.

Q: How long will it take to learn this song? A: The time required to learn the song varies for each individual. With regular practice and dedication, you should be able to grasp the basics within a few weeks.

Q: Are online guitar lessons available from Lance Allen? A: Yes, Lance Allen offers online guitar lessons. Visit guitarlancer.com for more information and to sign up for lessons.

Q: Can I play this song on an acoustic guitar? A: Absolutely! "You and Me Together" can be played on both acoustic and electric guitars. Experiment with different tones to find the sound that resonates with you.

Q: Are there any recommended resources to accompany this article? A: Yes, visit guitarlancer.com for additional resources and tutorials related to "You and Me Together" and other songs by Dave Matthews.