We can help. Justin makes it structured and simple to follow a learning path … but you’re right about hitting frustration and finding it difficult. Everybody does.
If you want a comparison go watch Justin learn to play left-handed in the Nitsuj videos.
I disagree with the labelling of that song as absolute beginner. Nevertheless is can be a Grade 1 song if simplified in the strumming and rhythm elements.
I want you to continue playing. I want to help.
So I have created an mp3 audio track and pdf to listen to and play along with.
Notice - the capo is marked as being at fret 1 - just like the ultimate guitar version is.
I have done it at four levels of accessibility.
One strum per bar.
two strums per bar.
Four strums per bar.
Bass note-strum twice per bar.
It is at a reduced tempo too.
Listen, follow the TAB and chords, try to play along. Do it slowly. Only when you have one level going well should you move to the next level.
The reason I say it is not an absolute beginner song is that it has C and G chords in it.
Making chord changes in chord progressions in songs is more challenging than doing one minute changes and stand alone exercises. That is why the recommendation is to learn two and three chord songs with A, D, E to begin with, then one or other of Am and Em and then, after a while and learning a good number of songs, progressing to songs with Dm, C and G.
No, absolutely not.
But your frustration is very evident. Try to lift the weight of expectation from yourself and know that at first, when you are learning and trying to play songs, you will be playing the most basic of parts that aren’t really a match for what the actual musicians play on the records. That is how it is. But the progress can be rapid.
For more inspiration, and to know you’re not alone in the struggle, check how other beginner students following Justin’s course are doing here:
I hope that helps.
Cheers
Richard
