Hey guys! So, you wanna learn how to play Luke Combs' version of "Fast Car" on guitar? Awesome! This song is a total classic, and Luke's cover has brought it to a whole new audience. Whether you're a beginner or have been strumming for a while, this lesson will break down the chords, strumming patterns, and techniques you need to nail this tune. Get your guitar ready, and let's dive in!

Getting Started: Tuning and Capo

Before we even think about chords, let's make sure our guitars are properly tuned. For "Fast Car," you'll need standard tuning (E, A, D, G, B, e). Now, here's the thing that makes Luke Combs' version a bit different: he uses a capo. Place the capo on the 2nd fret. This effectively raises the pitch of each string by two semitones, making the chords a bit easier to play and matching the key in which Luke sings the song. If you skip this part, the chords will be different and you'll be singing in a different key!

Why use a capo? Well, it lets you play the song using relatively simple chord shapes while still achieving the desired key. Without the capo, you'd be stuck with barre chords all over the place, which can be a real pain, especially for beginners. Trust me, the capo is your friend here. So, get that capo on the 2nd fret, double-check your tuning, and let's get those fingers moving!

If you're not familiar with using a capo, it's super easy. Just clamp it onto the fretboard behind the 2nd fret, making sure all the strings are held down cleanly. Give each string a strum to ensure they're ringing out clearly. If you hear any buzzing or muffled sounds, adjust the capo until everything sounds good. Once you're all set, you're ready to start learning the chords.

Chords You'll Need

Okay, so with the capo on the 2nd fret, here are the main chords you'll be using to play "Fast Car" like Luke Combs:

• C Major: This is your foundational chord. Place your index finger on the 2nd string (B string) at the 1st fret, your middle finger on the 4th string (D string) at the 2nd fret, and your ring finger on the 5th string (A string) at the 3rd fret. Strum all strings except the 6th string (low E). This chord gives a bright, happy sound that's crucial to the song.
• G Major: Another essential chord. Place your middle finger on the 6th string (low E) at the 3rd fret, your index finger on the 5th string (A string) at the 2nd fret, and your ring finger on the 1st string (high E) at the 3rd fret. Strum all the strings. G Major adds a strong, grounding element to the progression.
• Am (A minor): Time for a touch of melancholy. Place your index finger on the 2nd string (B string) at the 1st fret, your middle finger on the 4th string (D string) at the 2nd fret, and your ring finger on the 3rd string (G string) at the 2nd fret. Strum all strings except the 6th string (low E). This chord brings out the emotional depth of the song.
• F Major: This is where things get a little trickier. You can play it as a simplified F major (without the barre). Place your index finger on the 2nd string (B string) at the 1st fret, your middle finger on the 3rd string (G string) at the 2nd fret, and your ring finger on the 4th string (D string) at the 3rd fret. Strum strings 1-4. Don't worry if this one sounds a bit muddy at first; with practice, you'll get it clean. Alternatively, you can play Fmaj7 (102010) which is easier to play.

Practice transitioning between these chords slowly at first. The smoother you can switch between them, the better the song will sound. Focus on getting your fingers to land in the correct positions without having to look too much. Muscle memory is your best friend here!

Strumming Pattern

Now that we've got the chords down, let's talk about the strumming pattern. Luke's version of "Fast Car" has a pretty steady and straightforward strumming pattern that you can modify to fit your style. Here's a basic pattern to get you started:

Down, Down, Up, Down, Up

Try it out on a single chord first, like C Major. Focus on keeping a consistent rhythm and making sure each strum is clear. Once you feel comfortable, try applying the strumming pattern to the chord progression of the song. The key is to keep it relaxed and let the music flow. Don't overthink it – just feel the beat and let your hand do the work.

You can also add some variation to the strumming pattern to make it more interesting. For example, you could try adding a slight emphasis on certain strums or incorporating some palm muting to create a percussive effect. Experiment with different techniques and find what sounds best to you.

Song Structure and Chord Progression

"Fast Car" has a relatively simple and repetitive structure, which makes it easier to learn. Here's a breakdown of the main sections and chord progressions:

• Verse: The verse typically follows a chord progression of C - G - Am - F. This pattern repeats throughout the verse, creating a sense of familiarity and building anticipation.
• Chorus: The chorus usually maintains a similar chord progression to the verse but with a bit more intensity. You might find Luke adding a bit more power to his vocals and strumming during this section.

Listen to the song carefully and pay attention to how the chord progressions change in each section. This will help you understand the structure of the song and make it easier to memorize. Once you know the basic structure, you can start to add your own personal touches and variations to make the song your own.

Putting It All Together

Alright, now for the fun part: putting everything we've learned together and playing the song from start to finish! Start by playing the verse, focusing on smooth chord transitions and a steady strumming pattern. Then, move on to the chorus, adding a bit more energy and intensity. Repeat these sections as needed, following the structure of the song.

Don't worry if you make mistakes – everyone does! The key is to keep practicing and to focus on improving each time you play. Record yourself playing the song and listen back to identify areas where you can improve. Pay attention to your timing, chord transitions, and strumming patterns, and make adjustments as needed.

Tips for Mastering the Song

Here are a few extra tips to help you master "Fast Car" on guitar:

• Practice Regularly: The more you practice, the better you'll become. Try to set aside some time each day to work on the song, even if it's just for a few minutes.
• Listen to the Song: Listen to Luke Combs' version of "Fast Car" frequently to get a better feel for the rhythm, melody, and overall vibe of the song.
• Play Along with the Recording: Playing along with the recording can help you improve your timing and accuracy. It's also a great way to learn the nuances of the song.
• Be Patient: Learning to play guitar takes time and effort. Don't get discouraged if you don't sound perfect right away. Just keep practicing and you'll eventually get there.

Final Thoughts

So there you have it! A step-by-step guide to playing Luke Combs' version of "Fast Car" on guitar. With a little practice and patience, you'll be strumming along to this classic tune in no time. Remember to focus on smooth chord transitions, a steady strumming pattern, and most importantly, having fun! Now go grab your guitar and start playing! Rock on, guys!