Master the Intricate Chords in Dave Matthews' Two Step

Table of Contents:

1. Introduction
2. The Intro of "To Step By" by Dave Matthews Band
   1. Chord Progression
   2. Fingerings
3. The Verse of "To Step By"
   1. Chord Progression
   2. Fingerings
4. The Chorus of "To Step By"
   1. Chord Progression
   2. Fingerings
5. Conclusion

🎵 The Intro of "To Step By" by Dave Matthews Band

The intro of the song "To Step By" by Dave Matthews Band sets the tone for the rest of the piece. It begins with a beautiful chord progression that creates a melancholic atmosphere. Let's take a closer look at the chords and fingerings used in this section.

The intro starts with an Ad minor chord, which is formed by placing the ring finger on the 6th string, 10th fret, the pinky finger on the 3rd string, 10th fret, and the first finger on the 5th string, 8th fret. The open 4th string can ring out in the middle to add depth to the chord.

From there, the chord progression slides down to a C chord. To play this chord, drop your second finger onto the 6th string, 8th fret, your first finger onto the 5th string, 7th fret, and your pinky finger onto the 3rd string, 9th fret. Ensure that the 4th string is muted by your first finger.

Finally, the progression falls all the way down to a G minor chord. This chord is made by placing the ring finger on the 6th string, 3rd fret, the pinky finger on the 3rd string, 3rd fret, and the first finger on the 5th string, 1st fret. Just like before, the open 4th string can ring out in the middle.

To transition between chords, Dave Matthews lightly hits the 6th string, 9th fret with his ring finger and slides the shape down to the G minor. This creates a smooth and seamless shift between chords. Practice this intro section until you can smoothly transition between the chords and create the desired melancholic ambiance.

🎶 The Verse of "To Step By"

The verse section of "To Step By" follows a different chord progression than the intro. It introduces new chords and fingerings to create variation and keep the listener engaged. Let's dive into the chords and fingerings used in this section.

The verse begins with a D minor chord, which is formed by placing the second finger on the 6th string, 6th fret, the first finger on the 5th string, 5th fret, and the pinky finger on the 3rd string, 7th fret. You can allow the 4th string to ring out in the middle or mute it with your first finger if needed.

Next, we move to an A sharp chord. Take the same shape as the D minor but slide it up two frets. This creates an A sharp chord that adds tension to the verse.

Following the A sharp, slide the same shape down two more frets to create a C chord. From there, the progression continues with an F chord, an A sharp, and an A minor. Lastly, slide the shape down to the G minor, then back to the D minor to repeat the verse.

Dave Matthews plays most of these chords using a major barre chord shape. Place your first finger on the 6th string, 1st fret, your ring finger on the 5th string, 3rd fret, your pinky finger on the 4th string, 3rd fret, and your second finger on the 3rd string, 2nd fret. This shape allows for efficient movement between chords and provides a full sound.

Practice transitioning between these chords smoothly to recreate the verse section and capture the essence of Dave Matthews' performance.

🎵 The Chorus of "To Step By"

The chorus section of "To Step By" adds a burst of energy and emotion to the song. It contrasts with the more melancholic intro and verse, creating a dynamic listening experience. Let's explore the chord progression and fingerings used in the chorus.

The chorus begins with an F chord. Strum this chord on the "one, two, three" count and then switch to an up-down-up strum.

Next, place your ring finger on the 6th string, 9th fret, and slide it all the way up to create a C-shaped chord. Allow your first and pinky fingers to fall into place behind the ring finger.

To transition back to the G minor, hit the 6th string with your ring finger and slide back down to the G minor shape.

For the last set of chords in the chorus, slide up to the A sharp. Use your second finger to slide up to the 6th string, 6th fret. Strum the 5th and 3rd strings with your first finger on the 5th string, 5th fret, and your pinky finger on the 3rd string, 7th fret.

End the chorus by returning to the F chord. To recap, the chorus chords are F, C, G minor, A sharp, and back to F.

Repeating the chorus multiple times with slight variations provides the song with a memorable and powerful structure. Practice the chord transitions and strumming patterns to master this section and create an impactful performance.

Conclusion

"To Step By" by Dave Matthews Band is a beautiful and emotive song that combines intricate chord progressions with skilled fingerings. Understanding the different sections of the song, such as the intro, verse, and chorus, allows musicians to recreate the intricacies of Dave Matthews' performance.

By practicing the recommended chord fingerings and paying attention to the strumming patterns, aspiring guitarists can capture the essence of the song and put their own spin on it. Remember to focus on the emotion behind the music and let that guide your playing.

So grab your guitar, learn the chords, and immerse yourself in the captivating world of "To Step By" by Dave Matthews Band.

Highlights:

• "To Step By" by Dave Matthews Band is a melancholic and emotional song that showcases intricate chord progressions and skilled fingerings.
• The intro section sets the tone for the song, featuring chords such as Ad minor, C, and G minor.
• The verse section introduces new chords like D minor, A sharp, and A minor to create variation and tension.
• The chorus section adds a burst of energy with chords such as F, C, G minor, and A sharp.
• Understanding the various sections of the song and practicing the recommended fingerings and strumming patterns is essential in recreating the magic of Dave Matthews' performance.

FAQ:

Q: What are the chords used in the intro of "To Step By"? A: The chords in the intro are Ad minor, C, and G minor.

Q: How does Dave Matthews transition between chords in the intro? A: Dave Matthews lightly hits the 6th string, 9th fret, with his ring finger and slides the shape down to the G minor chord.

Q: What are the chords used in the verse of "To Step By"? A: The chords in the verse are D minor, A sharp, C, F, A sharp, A minor, G minor, and back to D minor.

Q: How does Dave Matthews play the F chord in the chorus? A: Dave Matthews plays an F major barre chord shape.

Q: What is the chord progression in the chorus of "To Step By"? A: The chord progression in the chorus is F, C, G minor, A sharp, and back to F.