How to Play “I Hate Myself for Loving You” by Joan Jett & the Blackhearts
Joan Jett & the Blackhearts’ iconic song “I Hate Myself for Loving You” has been a staple in the rock music scene since its release in 1981. With its catchy melody and powerful lyrics, the song has captivated audiences for decades. If you’re looking to play this classic track on your guitar, here’s a step-by-step guide on how to play “I Hate Myself for Loving You.”
1. Get the Equipment
Before you start, make sure you have the necessary equipment. You’ll need a guitar, an amp, and a set of guitar picks. If you’re a beginner, a half-size or 3/4-size guitar can be a great starting point to ensure comfort and ease of play.
2. Learn the Chords
“I Hate Myself for Loving You” is primarily played in the key of E minor. Here are the chords you’ll need to know:
– E minor (Em)
– G major (G)
– C major (C)
– A minor (Am)
– B7 (B dominant seventh)
Practice these chords before moving on to the next step.
3. Play the Intro
The intro of the song starts with a power chord, which is a simple combination of the root note and the fifth note of the chord. For the E minor chord, that would be E and G. Play this power chord on the 6th string (low E string) and the 5th string (A string) simultaneously, using your first and third fingers. Hold the power chord for about two bars before moving on to the first verse.
4. Play the First Verse
The first verse of the song is played using the E minor chord. Here’s how to play it:
– E minor (Em): Play the first two strings with your first and second fingers.
– G major (G): Play the third and fourth strings with your second and third fingers.
– C major (C): Play the first and second strings with your first and second fingers.
– A minor (Am): Play the third and fourth strings with your second and third fingers.
Repeat this pattern for the duration of the verse.
5. Play the Pre-Chorus
The pre-chorus introduces the B7 chord. Here’s how to play it:
– B7: Play the first, second, and third strings with your first, second, and third fingers.
Play this chord for two bars before moving on to the chorus.
6. Play the Chorus
The chorus is a repeating pattern of the B7 chord, followed by the E minor chord. Here’s how to play it:
– B7: Play the first, second, and third strings with your first, second, and third fingers.
– E minor (Em): Play the first two strings with your first and second fingers.
Repeat this pattern for the duration of the chorus.
7. Play the Second Verse
The second verse is played in the same manner as the first verse. Follow the same chord progression and pattern described in step 4.
8. Play the Pre-Chorus and Chorus Again
Repeat steps 5 and 6 to play the pre-chorus and chorus again.
9. Play the Bridge
The bridge of the song is played using the G major chord. Here’s how to play it:
– G major (G): Play the third and fourth strings with your second and third fingers.
Play this chord for two bars before moving on to the final chorus.
10. Play the Final Chorus
The final chorus is played in the same manner as the previous choruses. Follow the same pattern described in step 6.
11. Play the Outro
The outro of the song features a final E minor chord. Here’s how to play it:
– E minor (Em): Play the first two strings with your first and second fingers.
Play this chord for about two bars to bring the song to a close.
Now that you’ve learned how to play “I Hate Myself for Loving You,” take some time to practice the song and make it your own. Enjoy the rock ‘n’ roll revolution!
