How to Play 38 Special’s “Hold on Loosely” on Guitar
Playing “Hold on Loosely” by 38 Special on the guitar is a fantastic way to add a classic rock vibe to your repertoire. This song is known for its catchy melody and memorable riffs, making it a favorite among guitarists of all skill levels. In this article, we’ll guide you through the essential steps to play this iconic tune on the guitar.
Understanding the Song Structure
Before diving into the guitar parts, it’s crucial to understand the song’s structure. “Hold on Loosely” is a three-chord song, featuring a straightforward A-A-D progression. The song is typically played in the key of A, with the A chord serving as the root, the A minor chord as the second chord, and the D chord as the fifth chord.
Learning the Riff
The opening riff of “Hold on Loosely” is one of the most recognizable parts of the song. To play it, start by tuning your guitar to the key of A. Here’s a step-by-step guide:
1. Play the A minor chord (x0222) for the first two bars.
2. Move to the D chord (x22xx) for the next two bars.
3. Return to the A minor chord for the final two bars.
The riff is played on the first two strings, with the first string serving as the bass note. Practice this pattern until you can play it smoothly and consistently.
Playing the Chorus
The chorus of “Hold on Loosely” is another catchy part of the song. To play it, follow these steps:
1. Play the A chord (x0222) for the first two bars.
2. Move to the D chord (x22xx) for the next two bars.
3. Return to the A chord for the final two bars.
The chorus is played in the same pattern as the riff, but with a slight variation in the rhythm. Pay attention to the strumming pattern, which is typically a downstroke on the first beat, followed by an upstroke on the second beat.
Adding the Bridge
The bridge of “Hold on Loosely” introduces a new chord progression, featuring the E minor chord (x4323). Here’s how to play it:
1. Play the A minor chord (x0222) for the first two bars.
2. Move to the E minor chord (x4323) for the next two bars.
3. Return to the A minor chord for the final two bars.
The bridge is played on the first two strings, similar to the riff and chorus. Practice this pattern until you can play it smoothly and in time with the rest of the song.
Practicing and Improving
To master “Hold on Loosely,” practice regularly and focus on the following tips:
1. Pay attention to your timing and strumming pattern.
2. Practice fingerpicking techniques to add more texture to your playing.
3. Experiment with different variations of the riff and chorus to keep the song interesting.
4. Record yourself playing the song and listen back to identify areas for improvement.
By following these steps and practicing consistently, you’ll be able to play “Hold on Loosely” by 38 Special with confidence and skill. Enjoy the process and have fun rockin’ out!
