Learning guitar chords is a big accomplishment. But once you've memorized some common shapes, you might wonder what comes next. You can strum familiar progressions; how do you turn them into original music?
One useful approach is to stop treating chords as fixed shapes and start exploring the notes inside them.
Start with a simple chord progression
Choose a progression you already know. For this exercise, use:
Em – C – G – D
Play each chord for four beats. Listen to how the sequence moves. Notice which chord feels settled and which makes you anticipate the next one.
You don't need advanced theory to notice those feelings. You just need to listen.
Step 1: Find the root notes
Every chord has a root note that gives it its name. Here the roots are E, C, G and D.
| Chord | Root note | Guitar position |
|---|---|---|
| Em | E | Open low E string |
| C | C | Third fret of A string |
| G | G | Third fret of low E string |
| D | D | Open D string |
Play those four notes individually instead of strumming the entire chords. You now have the outline of a bass-line-style riff.
Step 2: Add notes from each chord
Every chord contains more than one note. Use those other notes to create movement. Try this four-measure exercise, one note per beat:
- Measure 1 — Em: Low E open, low E open, low E fret 3, low E open.
- Measure 2 — C: A string fret 3, A string fret 3, D string fret 2, A string fret 3.
- Measure 3 — G: Low E fret 3, low E fret 3, A string fret 2, low E fret 3.
- Measure 4 — D: Open D, open D, open A, open D.
Play the sequence slowly. Each measure uses notes that fit with its underlying chord. Together they become a repeating melodic pattern instead of a standard strummed progression.
Step 3: Change the rhythm
Try playing the first two notes more quickly. Add a pause at the end of one measure. Let the final note ring.
These rhythmic choices can matter as much as the notes. You might prefer a version with fewer notes—and that's fine. Writing isn't a competition to fill every beat.
Step 4: Repeat with variation
Play your four-measure riff twice. On the second repetition, change one note or add a short pause.
This creates familiarity while giving the listener something new to hear. It's a songwriting technique you can use with very little guitar experience.
Step 5: Record your favourite version
Choose the variation that feels best and record it. Listen back. Could it be the beginning of a verse, chorus or instrumental section?
You don't need to decide immediately. Save the idea and revisit it later.
Keep creating beyond familiar chords
As you improve, experiment with new progressions, tunings or rhythmic restrictions. For more practice, read how to write a guitar riff or start jamming with drums.
Riff Roulette provides a fresh creative challenge whenever you aren't sure what to try next. Jam with drum grooves, record ideas and build a collection of your own riffs.