The iconic song “Jean Genie” by David Bowie, released in 1972, is a glam rock masterpiece that has captivated audiences for decades. To play this song on your guitar, you’ll need to know the chords, which are a combination of simple and more complex shapes. Here’s a breakdown of the chords you’ll need:
Verse Chords: - G major (G): 320003 - C major ©: 032010 - D major (D): 000232 - E minor (Em): 022030 - A major (A): x02220
Chorus Chords: - B7 (B7): x24240 - E major (E): 022100 - G# minor (G#m): 466544 (or barre chord at 4th fret) - C# minor (C#m): x46654 (or barre chord at 4th fret) - A major (A): x02220
Bridge Chords: - Am (A minor): x02210 - F major (F): 133211 - G major (G): 320003 - C major ©: 032010
Jean Genie Chord Progression: The song’s chord progression is what gives it its unique sound. The progression varies slightly between the verse and chorus, but here’s a simplified version: - Verse: G - C - D - Em - Chorus: B7 - E - G#m - C#m - A - Bridge: Am - F - G - C
Keep in mind that David Bowie and his guitarist, Mick Ronson, used various chord voicings and techniques to create the song’s distinctive sound. To get closer to the original, you might need to experiment with different chord inversions, barre chords, and string skipping.
Tips for Playing “Jean Genie”: - Pay attention to your strumming pattern. The song has a driving rhythm, so focus on downstrokes with an emphasis on the second and fourth beats in a 4⁄4 time signature. - For the verse, use a combination of downstrokes and upstrokes to create a sense of momentum. - In the chorus, the B7 and E chords are crucial for the song’s glam rock feel. Make sure to play these chords cleanly and with conviction. - Don’t be afraid to add your own flair with improvisational licks or fills, especially during the bridge and instrumental sections. - Practice, practice, practice. Like any song, mastering “Jean Genie” takes time and repetition.
Remember, the key to playing “Jean Genie” like David Bowie and Mick Ronson is to capture the essence and energy of the song. With these chords and a bit of practice, you’ll be well on your way to performing this glam rock classic.
What is the chord progression for the verse of "Jean Genie"?
+The verse chord progression for "Jean Genie" is G - C - D - Em.
How do I achieve the distinctive sound of "Jean Genie" on my guitar?
+To achieve the distinctive sound of "Jean Genie," experiment with different chord voicings, barre chords, and string skipping. Pay attention to your strumming pattern and emphasize the second and fourth beats in a 4/4 time signature.
What chords are used in the chorus of "Jean Genie"?
+The chorus of "Jean Genie" uses the chords B7, E, G#m, C#m, and A.
In conclusion, mastering the chords and chord progression of “Jean Genie” is just the first step in capturing the essence of this iconic song. With practice, attention to detail, and a bit of creativity, you can bring this glam rock classic to life on your guitar. Whether you’re a seasoned musician or just starting out, “Jean Genie” is a song that will challenge and Reward you, offering a unique glimpse into the innovative and boundary-pushing spirit of David Bowie and his music.
