Master the Versatile Passing Chord: A Timeless Trick Used by Icons Like Kurt Cobain and Billie Joe Armstrong
In this tutorial, we delve into a technique that many guitarists instinctively utilize without even realizing it: the “versatile passing chord.” This technique involves strumming one or more open strings while transitioning between fretted chord shapes, creating a seamless flow in your playing.
Real-World Application: Soundgarden’s “Blow Up the Outside World”
Take, as an example, the relaxed introduction and verses of Soundgarden’s Blow Up the outside world. Guitarists Chris Cornell and Kim Thayil demonstrate this technique beautifully. As they shift from an open E chord to a C chord every two beats, they momentarily lift their fingers off the strings during the last 16th note before the chord change, strumming the open top four strings with an upstroke.
This technique not only provides your fretting fingers with precious time to transition to the next chord but also maintains the rhythmic integrity of the piece. While you could simply skip the 16th-note upstroke and switch chords with a downstroke, incorporating the passing chord enriches the rhythmic texture, allowing for a more intricate 16th-note groove.
Enhancing Your Chord Transitions
Utilizing the passing chord also allows you to release the previous chord slightly earlier than if you were to hold it for an entire eighth note. This creates a more fluid sound, especially when playing open “cowboy” chords in guitar-friendly keys like C, G, or D, as well as their relative minor keys (A minor, E minor, or B minor). The open-string notes-E, A, D, G, B, E-naturally fit within the C, G, or D major scales, making their use sound harmonious and organic.
Strumming open strings between chords in these keys not only feels natural but also introduces a subtle tension and release. However, be mindful that strumming all six open strings draws more attention to the open notes than just strumming the top three or four strings. This is why many players prefer to focus on the higher open strings during transitions, especially when executing an upstroke.
Examples of the Passing Chord Technique
Figure 1 illustrates a similar technique, complete with strumming prompts.Notice how letting go of the strings during those upstrokes allows for a smooth transition while maintaining a consistent groove that blends eighth and 16th-note rhythms.
Figure 2 provides another example, featuring a progression of four open chords reminiscent of the chorus in Pearl Jam’s Alive. Again, observe how the strings are released on the last 16th note before each chord change, preserving a flowing groove.
Adapting the Technique for different Genres
While the passing chord is typically executed with an upstroke, it can also be adapted for downstrokes, especially in punk or metal genres where a more aggressive strumming style is desired.In such cases, you might focus on the lower open strings to match the intensity of the music.
For example, in Green Day’s American Idiot, Billie joe Armstrong employs barre chords (Ab5 – Db5 – Gb5 – Db5 – Ab5) and briefly strums the open low E and A strings between the first three chords.This technique adds a unique texture to the progression. At the end, he strikes the open G, B, and high E strings with a downstroke, intentionally introducing dissonance that enhances the song’s emotional impact.
Artistic Expression Through dissonance
A classic illustration of this artistic dissonance can be found in Nirvana’s Smells Like Teen Spirit. Kurt Cobain plays a repeating chord progression (F5 – Bb – Ab5 – Db) and lifts his fingers off the fretboard to strum the open bottom five strings between Bb and Ab5,as well as between Db and F5. These fleeting dissonances contribute to the song’s raw, rebellious spirit.
Consider the Tempo
It’s essential to consider the tempo of the piece when using the passing chord technique. Slower tempos can make these passing chords more pronounced, and what sounds appealing at a faster pace may feel awkward when slowed down.
with these insights in mind, feel free to incorporate the versatile passing chord into your playing style. This technique not only enhances your transitions but also adds depth and character to your music.
