Hey guys! Today, we're diving deep into a timeless classic: "Oh Very Young" by the legendary Cat Stevens. This song isn't just a beautiful melody; it's a poignant reflection on youth, potential, and the passage of time. Whether you're a seasoned musician or just starting to strum your first chords, this guide will provide everything you need to play and understand this incredible song. So grab your guitar, and let's get started!

Understanding the Lyrics

The lyrics of "Oh Very Young" are deceptively simple, yet they carry a profound message. The song speaks directly to the listener, urging them to recognize and embrace the opportunities that youth presents. It's a reminder that time is fleeting and that the potential within each of us should be nurtured and expressed. Let's break down some key sections to truly grasp the depth of Stevens' songwriting.

• "Oh very young, what will you leave us this time?" This opening line immediately sets the stage. It's a direct question, posed to someone at the cusp of their life, brimming with possibilities. The use of "very young" isn't just about age; it's about the freshness of perspective and the unburdened spirit that youth embodies. Think about it – what impact do you want to make? What mark will you leave on the world?

• "You're only dancing on this earth for a short while." This line serves as a gentle nudge, a reminder of our mortality. It underscores the urgency of the message. Life is a dance, and our time on this stage is limited. This isn't meant to be morbid but rather an encouragement to make the most of every moment. It's about living fully and without regret.

• "And know that time will tell only if you've been wise." Here, Stevens introduces the element of wisdom. It's not enough to simply exist; we must strive to make thoughtful choices and pursue meaningful endeavors. Time, the ultimate judge, will reveal whether we've used our youth and opportunities wisely. It's a call to introspection and conscious living.

• "Then I love you, oh, I love you." This refrain adds a layer of warmth and affection to the song. It's a universal expression of love and support, directed towards the young person embarking on their journey. This line provides encouragement, regardless of the paths taken or the choices made.

The beauty of these lyrics lies in their universality. They resonate with people of all ages because they tap into fundamental human experiences: the desire to make a difference, the awareness of mortality, and the search for meaning. Reflecting on these lyrics can provide a deeper connection to the song and inform your interpretation as you play.

Chord Progression and Structure

"Oh Very Young" features a relatively simple chord progression, making it accessible to guitarists of various skill levels. The primary chords used are G, D, Em, and C. The song's structure is straightforward, consisting of verses, a chorus, and a bridge. Understanding the chord progression and structure will allow you to play the song accurately and with feeling.

• Intro: The song typically begins with a gentle instrumental intro, often featuring fingerpicked arpeggios based on the G and D chords. This sets a reflective and introspective tone.

• Verse 1: The first verse introduces the main theme of the song. The chord progression usually follows a pattern like G – D – Em – C. Practice transitioning smoothly between these chords to maintain a consistent rhythm.

• Chorus: The chorus is where the emotional core of the song is expressed. The chord progression often intensifies slightly, perhaps with a variation like C – G – D – Em. The chorus is your opportunity to add more emotion and emphasis to your playing.

• Verse 2: The second verse expands on the themes introduced in the first verse. The chord progression remains similar, allowing you to focus on the lyrical content and expressiveness.

• Bridge: The bridge provides a contrasting section, both musically and lyrically. It might introduce a new chord or a slight variation in the progression. This section adds depth and complexity to the song.

• Outro: The outro typically revisits the intro's gentle melody, fading out to create a sense of closure.

The simplicity of the chord progression doesn't limit the song's emotional impact; rather, it allows the lyrics and melody to take center stage. Experiment with different strumming patterns and fingerpicking techniques to add your own personal touch.

Playing the Chords

Let's take a closer look at the chords used in "Oh Very Young" and how to play them:

• G Major: This is a fundamental chord and can be played in several variations. A common way to play it is: 320003 (from the 6th string to the 1st string). Ensure that each string rings clearly and that you're pressing down firmly behind the frets.

• D Major: Another essential chord, D major can be played as: xx0232. Focus on achieving a clean sound without muting any strings accidentally.

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• Em (E minor): Em is a versatile chord that adds a touch of melancholy. It's played as: 022000. Make sure your fingers are arched to avoid touching adjacent strings.

• C Major: C major provides a bright contrast to the other chords. Play it as: x32010. Ensure your middle finger is pressing down firmly on the A string.

• Tips for Smooth Transitions: Practice transitioning between these chords slowly and deliberately. Use a metronome to maintain a steady tempo. Focus on minimizing the time it takes to switch between chords. Smooth transitions will make your playing sound more polished and professional.

Experiment with different voicings and inversions of these chords to add variety to your playing. For example, you could try playing a G major with the root note on the 5th string or a C major with the root note on the 3rd string.

Strumming Patterns and Fingerpicking

The beauty of "Oh Very Young" lies in its adaptability. You can play it using various strumming patterns or opt for a more intricate fingerpicking style. Let's explore some options.

• Simple Strumming: A basic down-down-up-down-up strumming pattern works well for this song. Focus on maintaining a consistent rhythm and dynamics. You can also experiment with adding accents on certain beats to create more interest.

• Arpeggio: Fingerpicking allows you to highlight individual notes within each chord, creating a delicate and intricate sound. Try arpeggiating the chords by picking the root, third, and fifth notes in succession. This technique adds a layer of sophistication to your playing.

• Hybrid Picking: Combine strumming and fingerpicking by using a pick for the downstrokes and your fingers for the upstrokes. This technique provides a balance between rhythm and melody.

• Dynamics: Pay attention to the dynamics of your playing. Vary the volume and intensity to create contrast and emotion. Soften your strumming during the verses and increase the intensity during the chorus.

• Experimentation: Don't be afraid to experiment with different strumming patterns and fingerpicking techniques. Find what sounds best to you and suits your style. The goal is to express the emotion of the song in your own unique way.

Adding Your Own Style

While it's important to respect the original song, don't be afraid to add your own personal touch. Music is about expression, and "Oh Very Young" provides a canvas for your creativity. Here are some ideas:

• Vocal Interpretation: Experiment with different vocal phrasings and dynamics. Add your own nuances and inflections to the melody. Sing with sincerity and emotion.

• Instrumental Breaks: Introduce instrumental breaks between verses or in the bridge. Use this opportunity to showcase your guitar skills and add your own musical ideas.

• Chord Variations: Substitute certain chords with alternative voicings or inversions. This can add harmonic interest and depth to the song.

• Tempo and Rhythm: Adjust the tempo and rhythm to suit your style. You might want to play the song faster or slower than the original.

• Improvisation: Improvise over the chord progression during instrumental breaks. This is a great way to develop your musical skills and add your own unique voice to the song.

Remember, the most important thing is to have fun and enjoy the process of making music. Let your creativity flow and express yourself through the song.

Conclusion

"Oh Very Young" is more than just a song; it's a timeless piece of art that speaks to the human condition. By understanding the lyrics, chord progression, and structure, and by adding your own personal touch, you can bring this song to life and share it with others. So grab your guitar, start strumming, and let the music flow. Happy playing!