8. Your First Song - Power Chords + Pentatonic Solo

Goal: Write your first rock song using a 4-chord power chord progression in C major and a pentatonic solo in 1st position.

Step 1: Write a 4-Chord Power Chord Progression

• Choose a Key: Start in C major (diatonic: C, Dm, Em, F, G, Am, Bdim).
• Pick Power Chords: Use I-IV-V-I (C5, F5, G5, C5) for a classic rock vibe.
• Strumming Pattern: Down-down-up-up-down (4 beats per chord, 80 BPM).
• Practice: Strum progression 10x daily; use provided backing track [audio link placeholder].
• Example: Play C5 (3rd fret, A string) → F5 (1st fret, low E) → G5 (3rd fret, low E) → C5. Repeat 4x for verse.

Step 2: Solo with C Major Pentatonic (1st Position)

• C Major Pentatonic (1st Position): Notes C-G-D-A-E. Works over every power chord.

• Solo Tips: Start with simple phrases (e.g., A-C-D, then E-G-A); hit notes on downbeats.
• Practice: Improvise 8-bar solo over C5-F5-G5-C5 using 1st position; record with backing track.
• Challenge: End solo on C (8th fret, A string) to resolve.

Step 3: Assemble Your Song

• Structure: Verse (C5-F5-G5-C5, 4x) → Chorus (write your own 4 chords, 4x) → 8-bar solo.
• Practice Prompt: Play full song 5x.
• Troubleshooting: If chords buzz, check finger pressure; if solo feels off, stick to 2-3 note phrases.

Goal Achieved

• You’ve written a rock song with power chords and a pentatonic solo in C major, ready to share!

What's Next

In the next chapter, you’ll dive deeper into the key of C major by applying the seven diatonic chords (C Major, D Minor, E Minor, F Major, G Major, A Minor, B Diminished) to create chord progressions for songwriting. You’ll explore how to combine these chords into common sequences like I-IV-V-I and ii-V-I, practice strumming them on guitar, and learn to identify their roles in shaping a song’s mood. Expect to experiment with simple progressions to craft verses and choruses, setting the stage for understanding key changes and their emotional impact.