Bruno Mars, known for his captivating voice and memorable melodies, also creates music that’s a joy for guitarists to play. Many of his hits have simple chord progressions that are perfect for beginners, making them a great choice for those just starting to strum. With a blend of soul, pop, and R&B, his tracks offer a variety of rhythms and styles to keep your practice sessions diverse and engaging.
Whether you’re looking to serenade someone special or just want to enjoy playing some laid-back tunes, there’s a Bruno Mars song that’s right for your skill level. The simplicity of songs like “Count On Me” and “When I Was Your Man” lies in their repetitive chord structures, allowing you to focus on your technique without the complexity of rapid chord changes. So, grab your guitar and get ready to add some Bruno Mars flair to your musical repertoire.
Uptown Funk (Mark Robinson)
“Uptown Funk” is a vibrant and catchy tune by Mark Ronson featuring Bruno Mars. It became a global phenomenon with its groovy beat and memorable lyrics that encourage everyone to dance along. The song draws inspiration from the funky groove of the ’80s, showcasing Mars’ dynamic vocal range and Ronson’s production expertise. Its upbeat rhythm and fun atmosphere make it a favorite at parties and among musicians looking to add some energy to their catalog.
When you’re ready to learn “Uptown Funk” on your guitar, focus on nailing the rhythm. The guitar part is essential in driving the song’s signature groove. Start by practicing the basic chords, primarily Dm and G7, to get comfortable with the progression. Then, work on the strumming pattern, ensuring it locks in with the beat — this will give the song its funky feel. You can simplify the chords if you’re a beginner, but try to maintain that infectious rhythm that defines the track.
Treasure
“Treasure” by Bruno Mars, released in 2013, is a funky, upbeat track that channels a retro vibe reminiscent of the 1970s and 1980s disco era. With catchy hooks and a smooth melody, it captures the essence of a feel-good song that’s both nostalgic and fresh. The infectious rhythm and Bruno Mars’ energetic vocal performance make “Treasure” a standout track and a fan favorite, particularly for those who appreciate a throwback to classic pop and soul influences.
When you’re ready to play “Treasure” on the guitar, you’ll find it a delightful choice for a beginner due to its straightforward chord progression and steady tempo. Start with practicing the rhythmic strumming pattern, and getting comfortable with the syncopation that gives the song its groove. Pay attention to the changes between the verse and chorus to maintain the song’s dynamic flow. By focusing on clean chord transitions and keeping the groove, you’ll capture the essence of this upbeat tune on your guitar.
Runaway Baby
“Runaway Baby” is a vibrant track from Bruno Mars’ debut studio album, Doo-Wops & Hooligans. With its upbeat tempo and catchy melody, the song captures the essence of Mars’ funk and soul influences. The lyrics talk about the protagonist’s playful, non-committal approach to relationships, warning a potential love interest about his intentions to avoid any emotional entanglements.
When you’re ready to tackle “Runaway Baby” on guitar, remember it’s all about the groove. The song doesn’t have a complicated chord structure, making it quite easy for beginners. Focus on mastering the rhythm pattern to get the foot-tapping feel of the tune. Additionally, practice transitioning smoothly between chords, as this will allow you to keep up with the song’s energetic pace.
When I Was Your Man
“When I Was Your Man” is a heartfelt ballad by Bruno Mars, reflecting on regret and heartbreak. This song, coming from Mars’ album “Unorthodox Jukebox,” resonates with listeners through its poignant lyrics and simple melody. It captures the emotional depth of looking back on a past relationship and wishing to have done things differently.
The song is not too complex, but you will need a bit of practice to nail the chord progression. Focus on mastering the chords before adding the distinctive piano riff to your strumming pattern for extra flavor.
When I Was Your Man Guitar Chords
It Will Rain
“It Will Rain” is a soulful ballad by Bruno Mars featured on the soundtrack for the film The Twilight Saga: Breaking Dawn – Part 1. Known for its emotional depth and melancholic melody, the track conveys the theme of heartbreak and the fear of loss. With Mars’ intense vocal delivery, the song creates a dramatic atmosphere that’s accentuated by its moody chord progression.
When playing “It Will Rain” on your guitar, you’ll appreciate its simplicity, allowing even beginners to capture the song’s essence. Starting with a capo on the second fret, you’ll use a set of basic chords that repeat throughout the song. The chords include C, Em, Dm, Am, and G, which form a pattern that’s easy to memorize. Keep your strumming gentle and steady to mirror the original song’s rhythm, letting the emotional lyrics take center stage.
Talking To The Moon
“Talking To The Moon” is one of Bruno Mars’ emotive ballads that resonates with listeners through its heartfelt lyrics. The song captures the feeling of longing as it narrates the tale of trying to communicate with a lost love. Its melody is both haunting and beautiful, allowing you to convey deep emotions as you play.
To master this song on the guitar, you’ll want to focus on the chords and the strumming pattern. The easy version of the song generally involves basic chords like C, Am, F, and G. Emphasize the fluidity of your transition between chords to maintain the song’s soothing tempo. If you’re a beginner, take your time practicing the strumming pattern separately before integrating it with the chords.
Talking To The Moon Guitar Chords
Locked Out Of Heaven
“Locked Out of Heaven” is a dynamic and upbeat track by Bruno Mars that blends pop and rock elements. Its catchy melody and funky rhythm section make it an excellent choice for fans of his music. The song’s structure is relatively repetitive, which allows you to quickly learn the progression and focus on the feel and delivery of the piece.
When playing “Locked Out of Heaven” on the guitar, you’ll find that the song is driven by a distinct, rhythmic strumming pattern that is crucial to recreating the vibe of the original track. Start by getting comfortable with the chords C, Dm, F, and Gm, which are the foundation of the song. Work on clean transitions between these chords (or riffs) while maintaining an energetic strumming rhythm. Keep your strum light but precise to capture the song’s essence.
Locked Out Of Heaven Guitar Chords
Just The Way You Are
“Just The Way You Are” is one of Bruno Mars’ most iconic and heartwarming songs, released as part of his debut studio album Doo-Wops & Hooligans. With its soothing melody and romantic lyrics, the song quickly resonates with listeners and captures the message of unconditional love and appreciation. It became a hit for its catchy chorus and simple yet beautiful composition, which seamlessly blends pop and R&B genres.
When approaching this song on the guitar, you’ll find it has a comfortable pace making it perfect for beginners. The chords used are standard and involve familiar shapes like D, Bm7, and G. Maintaining a steady strumming pattern while you play can help you keep time and convey the song’s easy-going rhythm. Fingerpicking can also be incorporated for a more intimate rendition, adding a personal touch to your performance.
Just The Way You Are Guitar Chords
Billionaire (Travis McCoy)
“Billionaire” is a catchy tune by Travie McCoy featuring Bruno Mars, which talks about the aspirational dream of acquiring immense wealth and fame. With its reggae-infused beats and relatable lyrics, expressing the desire to live a life of luxury and comfort, the song quickly resonated with a wide audience. The chorus, where Bruno Mars dreams about being on the cover of Forbes Magazine “smiling next to Oprah and the Queen,” is particularly memorable for its vivid imagery and engaging melody.
When you’re ready to play “Billionaire” on your guitar, you’ll be pleased to find that the chord progression is straightforward and follows a common pattern that’s easy for beginners to pick up. The song predominantly uses basic barre chords like G, Bm, Em, and D, which might be a problem for some players. One tip for bringing the song to life is to maintain a relaxed strumming hand to capture the laidback reggae groove that mirrors the original track. Remember, being consistent with your rhythm is key, as well as ensuring you have smooth transitions between chords for a clean performance.
Grenade
“Grenade” is a soulful pop ballad by Bruno Mars from his debut studio album, Doo-Wops & Hooligans. Released in 2010, the song features powerful vocals and a memorable melody that echoes Mars’s willingness to do anything for his unrequited love. Its emotive lyrics and dramatic dynamics quickly turned it into a fan favorite, showcasing Mars’s range as a performer and songwriter.
When you’re looking to play “Grenade” on guitar, you’re in luck because the chord progression is suitable for beginners. Start by familiarizing yourself with the key chords: Dm, Am, Bb, F, and C. Remember to focus on clean chord transitions and let the emotion of the song guide your strumming intensity.
Count On Me
“Bruno Mars’ song ‘Count On Me’ is an uplifting track with a heartwarming message of friendship and loyalty. With its catchy melody and simple lyrics, it’s a popular choice for guitarists of all levels. Its simple chord progression makes it particularly suitable for beginners looking to expand their repertoire.
When playing ‘Count On Me’ on the guitar, you’ll find there are a lot of open chords, allowing you to focus on the strumming pattern. The pattern that accompanies the song is essential for capturing the feel of the track. Keep your hand relaxed and maintain a steady tempo to let the song’s cheerful vibe shine through.
Marry You
“Marry You” is a joyful and upbeat track by Bruno Mars, featured on his debut studio album ‘Doo-Wops & Hooligans.’ Released in 2010, this song quickly became renowned for its catchy melody and feel-good lyrics about spontaneous romance and marriage. It’s a celebration of love that resonates with many, often used in wedding proposals and festivities.
When you’re ready to strum along to “Marry You” on your guitar, you’ll be pleased to know it’s a relatively simple song to learn. The tune mainly consists of a few basic chords: D, Em, and G which repeat throughout the song. Focus on mastering the chord transitions and the joyous rhythm. A consistent strumming pattern will help you capture the song’s uplifting essence.
Leave The Door Open (Silk Sonic)
“Leave the Door Open” is a great track that showcases Bruno Mars’ signature soulful style blended with retro R&B beats. Released by the powerhouse collaboration of Mars and Anderson .Paak as Silk Sonic, it’s a song that’s both modern and a throwback, inviting listeners to step into a romantic and sophisticated musical realm.
To play “Leave the Door Open” on guitar, focus on achieving the relaxed groove that defines the track. The first thing to know is that this is not an easy song to learn, and many beginners might struggle with it. Thanks to all the add9 and sus chords, you will probably need to spend some time practicing. But it will be worth it.
Leave The Door Open Guitar Chords
The Lazy Song
“The Lazy Song” is a delightful tune by Bruno Mars that encapsulates a carefree day with absolutely no plans. Known for its catchy chorus and laid-back vibe, it quickly became a fan favorite. The relatability of wanting to do nothing but relax is perfectly portrayed through the song’s playful lyrics and mellow melody, striking a chord with listeners worldwide.
When it comes to playing “The Lazy Song” on the guitar, it can be a great option for beginners. It features a series of simple and repeating chords, but keep in mind that some of them are barre chords. The strumming pattern is also straightforward, allowing you to maintain a steady rhythm without complication.
Versace On The Floor
“Versace On The Floor” is a sultry and smooth track by Bruno Mars, showcasing his R&B influences and romantic lyricism. As a testament to love and intimacy, this song quickly became a favorite for its mellow vibes and memorable melody. It’s been appreciated by both listeners and musicians alike for its classic charm blended with a contemporary feel.
When you’re looking to play “Versace On The Floor” on guitar, it’s all about capturing the essence of the song’s smooth groove. The chord progression and strumming pattern are the key components here. Start by getting comfortable with the chords—there are a few uncommon chords you will need to learn. The strumming should be gentle and consistent, letting the melody shine over the supportive harmony.
Versace On The Floor Guitar Chords
24k Magic
“24k Magic” lights up with its catchy hooks and vibrant funk rhythms, much like a dazzling party anthem by Bruno Mars. This track, released in 2016, captures the essence of a feel-good celebration. As the lead single from his album of the same name, “24k Magic” won Record of the Year at the Grammys, signifying its widespread acclaim and dynamic charm.
When you decide to bring “24k Magic” to life on your guitar, you’re in for a treat. Though the original is synth-heavy, the chords translate well to guitar. For an easier playthrough, focus on nailing the rhythm. Familiarize yourself with the chord progression and consider simplifying complex chords. Embrace the fun vibe of the song, and keep your strumming light and groovy to match Mars’ vivacious style.
Too Good To Say Goodbye
Bruno Mars captivates with his soulful ballad, “Too Good To Say Goodbye.” This song pulls at the heartstrings, as it details the emotions of someone pleading for a second chance at love that’s on the brink of ending. With a blend of classic R&B and pop, it’s a stand-out track with expressive vocals and heartfelt lyrics that resonate with anyone who’s faced relationship struggles.
For guitar enthusiasts looking to play “Too Good To Say Goodbye,” it’s a satisfying choice once you manage to learn the chord progression. The tempo is slow, allowing you to focus on the emotion and dynamics of your playing rather than complex fingerwork. Emphasize the transitions between chords to capture the song’s essence and consider using a capo to match the original key or to adjust the pitch to suit your vocal range if you’re singing along.
Too Good To Say Goodbye Guitar Chords
If I Knew
“If I Knew” is a tender ballad by Bruno Mars. The song reflects on the regrets and realizations one might have about past actions if they had known a special person would enter their life. With its soulful melody and introspective lyrics, “If I Knew” resonates with anyone who’s ever pondered the ‘what ifs’ in love.
As you approach playing “If I Knew” on the guitar, you’ll find it combines both simplicity and emotional depth. Focus on the smooth transition between the chords and let each strum resonate to carry the emotional weight of the song. Pay attention to the dynamics – softer during the verses and a bit heavier at the chorus to mirror the song’s build-up.
Finesse
“Finesse” by Bruno Mars showcases a fun blend of R&B and funk, creating an upbeat tune that encourages listeners to groove along. Featuring catchy lyrics and a vibrant rhythm, it mirrors the late ’80s to early ’90s new jack swing sound, delivering a nostalgic yet fresh musical experience. Its melody and stylish beats made it an instant favorite upon release.
When you’re ready to play “Finesse” on your guitar, you’ll find that the song’s rhythm is as important as its chords. Start with a focus on keeping your strumming hand moving to the beat to capture that essential groove. Beginners can simplify the chords, swapping out any barre chords for more manageable open-string versions or using a capo to adjust the key, making it easier to play while still keeping the tune recognizable
Rest Of My Life
“Rest Of My Life” is a romantic ballad where Bruno Mars expresses heartfelt sentiments about committing to a lifelong love. It’s known for its warm lyrics and gentle melody, capturing that timeless promise of love and devotion. The song’s soothing tone makes it a favorite for intimate moments, such as weddings or anniversaries.
When you’re ready to play “Rest Of My Life” on your guitar, you’ll be delighted to know the chord progression is quite straightforward. The song primarily consists of basic chords like F, Gm, Am, and C, but there are a few uncommon ones as well. Remember, the beauty lies in the simplicity and emotion you bring to each strum.
Liquor Store Blues
“Liquor Store Blues” features Bruno Mars alongside reggae artist Damian Marley, producing a melody that blends a reggae vibe with pop themes. The song presents a narrative of dealing with life’s struggles and finding solace in music. Its laid-back rhythm and catchy tune make it a great choice for guitarists looking to add some reggae flair to their repertoire.
When approaching this song on the guitar, you will notice that it was built on a foundation of simple chord progressions that are typical of reggae music. Focus on mastering the rhythm, as the genre has a distinct emphasis on the offbeat. The song’s chords are relatively simple, so concentrate on getting that reggae strumming pattern down to give it the right feel.
Liquor Store Blues Guitar Chords
All I Ask (Adele)
“All I Ask” presents a heartfelt plea for one last night together, exploring the themes of love and memory. Originating from Adele’s album “25,” the song gained popularity when Bruno Mars, who co-wrote the track, performed his own rendition. The emotional ballad resonates with many due to its lyrical depth and the raw vocal delivery that both artists bring to their performances.
On the guitar, “All I Ask” requires a sensitive touch to match the emotional tone of the song. The chords used in the song can be a bit tricky for beginners, and there is little you can do to simplify them. Pay special attention to the dynamics; a gentle strum or fingerpicking can enhance the tenderness of the performance, allowing every chord to resonate with the listener.
Gorilla
“Brunilla,” released in 2012 by Bruno Mars, is a soulful track famous for its energetic vibe and powerful vocals. This song, from the album “Unorthodox Jukebox,” captures a raw and passionate atmosphere, showcasing Mars’ dynamic range and musical versatility.
When you’re ready to take on “Gorilla” with your guitar, you’ll find that the chord progression is a bit tricky. Especially if you are a beginner. However, the primary focus of the song is not on guitars, so you can achieve it with enough practice. Start slow to get comfortable with the transitions and increase your speed as you build confidence.
Somewhere In Brooklyn
“Somewhere In Brooklyn” by Bruno Mars is a song that encompasses a youthful, vibrant energy, capturing the essence of a fleeting encounter. The narrative follows a chance conversation at a train stop with imagery of leather, gold, and high-top sneakers that seamlessly blend with hip-hop beats, contributing to its catchy melody.
When playing “Somewhere In Brooklyn” on your guitar, you’ll find it a gratifying choice for its simplicity. The song mainly utilizes open chords, and you can play it with or without a capo based on your skills.
Somewhere In Brooklyn Guitar Chords
All She Knows
“All She Knows” is a track showcasing Bruno Mars’ vocal range and emotive storytelling. The song reflects the story of a person who’s acutely aware of a partner’s unhappiness and feels powerless to help. It’s this emotional depth that makes it a favored choice for both listeners and guitar players.
When playing “All She Knows” on guitar, start with a capo on the 7th fret to match the original key. Utilize simple strumming patterns such as “down-down-up-up-down-up” to keep the rhythm flowing. The progression involves common chords like Am, C, G, and F, making it great for beginners.
Conclusion
With your guitar in hand, you’re now equipped to tackle a lineup of Bruno Mars hits that are both enjoyable and relatively simple for guitarists of all skill levels. Remember, practice makes perfect. So, don’t fret if you’re not nailing it from the start.
- Start Simple: Songs like “Count on Me” and “The Lazy Song” are great for beginners.
- Chord Practice: Use these songs to get comfortable with common chords like Am, C, D, and G.
- Strumming Patterns: Experiment with different patterns to find the groove that fits the tune.
Make each session fun and keep strumming to the beat of Bruno Mars’ catchy tunes!
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