Tabs for “I Will Follow You into the Dark”
I’ve always been drawn to songs that speak to the profound connection between two people, and “I Will Follow You into the Dark” by Death Cab for Cutie is no exception. The song’s haunting melody and poignant lyrics evoke a deep sense of love, devotion, and the willingness to face the unknown together. I recently picked up my guitar and decided to learn how to play this beautiful piece, and I’m sharing my journey with you.
In this article, I’ll provide a detailed guide to playing “I Will Follow You into the Dark” on the guitar, complete with tabs and helpful tips. I’ll also delve into the history and meaning of the song, and share my personal insights on what makes it such an enduring masterpiece.
A Love that Transcends Darkness
The Origins of a Timeless Classic
Written by Death Cab for Cutie frontman Ben Gibbard, “I Will Follow You into the Dark” was released in 2005 as part of the album “Plans.” Gibbard has stated that the song was inspired by his own experiences with love and loss, and it quickly resonated with countless listeners around the world.
The lyrics explore the depths of unwavering love, promising to remain steadfast even in the face of uncertainty and adversity. The metaphor of following someone “into the dark” represents a willingness to face life’s challenges together, no matter how daunting they may seem.
A Step-by-Step Guide to the Tabs
Now that we’ve explored the background and significance of “I Will Follow You into the Dark,” let’s dive into the tabs. I’ve broken down the song into its individual parts, so you can easily follow along and start playing.
Verse 1 e|-----10-----10-----12-----13----| B|-----11-----11-----13-----14----| G|-----10-----10-----12-----13----| D|-----10-----10-----12-----13----| A|-----9------9------11-----12----| E|-----7------7------9------10----|Chorus e|-----12-----12-----15-----17----| B|-----13-----13-----16-----18----| G|-----12-----12-----15-----17----| D|-----12-----12-----15-----17----| A|-----11-----11-----14-----16----| E|-----10-----10-----13-----15----|
Interlude e|-----10-----10-----12-----13----| B|-----11-----11-----13-----14----| G|-----10-----10-----12-----13----| D|-----10-----10-----12-----13----| A|-----9------9------11-----12----| E|-----7------7------9------10----|
Tips and Expert Advice
To help you master “I Will Follow You into the Dark,” I’ve compiled a list of tips and expert advice that will enhance your playing:
- Use a capo: A capo placed on the second fret will make the chords easier to play and match the original recording.
- Start slowly: Don’t rush through the song. Practice the chords and strumming pattern at a slow tempo until you feel comfortable before gradually increasing the speed.
- Focus on accuracy: It’s better to play the notes correctly at a slower tempo than to rush through them with mistakes.
- Use a metronome: A metronome will help you stay on beat and develop a consistent rhythm.
- Listen to the original song: Familiarize yourself with the melody and strumming pattern by listening to the original recording repeatedly.
Frequently Asked Questions
- Can I play this song without a capo? Yes, you can, but the chords will be more difficult to play and the overall sound will be slightly different.
- What is the tuning for this song? Standard tuning (E, A, D, G, B, e) is used.
- How long does it take to learn this song? The time it takes to learn the song will vary based on your skill level and practice time. With regular practice, you should be able to play it comfortably within a few weeks.
Conclusion
Playing “I Will Follow You into the Dark” on the guitar is a rewarding experience that will deepen your appreciation for this timeless classic. With dedication and practice, you can master the tabs and strumming pattern, and express the song’s profound message of love and devotion through your music.
Now, over to you. Are you ready to embark on a musical journey with “I Will Follow You into the Dark”? Let me know if you have any questions or if there are any other songs you’d like to learn.
