“One” by U2 is a timeless classic, renowned for its powerful message and memorable melody. For guitarists, especially beginners, “One” is also a fantastic song to learn. It features a beautiful chord progression and a manageable strumming pattern, making it an excellent addition to your guitar repertoire. This guide will break down the U2 One Guitar Chords and strumming pattern, enabling you to play this iconic song yourself.
Simple Guitar Chords for U2’s “One”
The beauty of “One” lies in its simplicity. The song primarily uses a set of beginner-friendly chords that are easy to finger and transition between. Here are the chords you’ll need to learn:
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Am (A minor): A foundational chord in guitar playing. To play Am, place your index finger on the 2nd fret of the B string, your middle finger on the 2nd fret of the G string, and your ring finger on the 2nd fret of the D string. Strum all strings except the low E string. (x02210)
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Dsus2 (D suspended 2nd): This chord adds a touch of sweetness and is a variation of the D chord. Place your index finger on the 2nd fret of the G string and your middle finger on the 3rd fret of the B string. Strum all strings except the low E string. (xx0230) Think of it as a D chord with the third note replaced by the second, creating a more open sound.
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Fmaj7 (F major 7th): A mellow and sophisticated chord that adds a jazzy feel. There are two common ways to play Fmaj7.
- Version 1: Place your index finger on the 1st fret of the B string, your middle finger on the 2nd fret of the G string, and your ring finger on the 3rd fret of the D string. Strum all strings except the low E string. (x03210)
- Version 2: Barre the 1st fret with your index finger, then place your middle finger on the 2nd fret of the G string and your ring finger on the 3rd fret of the D string. Strum all strings. (133211) For beginners, the first version (x03210) is generally easier.
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G (G major): Another essential chord. Place your middle finger on the 2nd fret of the A string, your index finger on the 2nd fret of the low E string, and your ring finger on the 3rd fret of the high E string. Strum all strings. (320003)
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C (C major): A bright and happy sounding major chord. Place your index finger on the 1st fret of the B string, your middle finger on the 2nd fret of the D string, and your ring finger on the 3rd fret of the A string. Strum all strings except the low E string. (x32010)
Strumming Pattern for “One”
While the original author suggests mixing it up, a great starting point for the “One” strumming pattern is:
Down, Down, Down, Up, Up, Down, Down (DDD UUD DD)
This pattern provides a solid foundation and captures the rhythm of the song. Focus on keeping your strumming hand relaxed and fluid. As you become more comfortable, you can experiment with variations and syncopation to add your own feel. Listen to the U2 recording closely to internalize the rhythm and nuances.
Song Structure and Chord Progression
“One” follows a fairly standard verse-chorus structure. Here’s the basic chord progression for the intro, verse, and chorus:
Intro: Am – Dsus2 – Fmaj7 – G (Repeat)
Verse 1 & 2:
Am Dsus2
Is it getting better
Fmaj7 G
Or do you feel the same
Am Dsus2
Will it make it easier on you now
Fmaj7 G
You’ve got someone to blame
Chorus:
C Am
You say one love one life
Fmaj7 C
When it’s one need in the night
C Am
One love we get to share it
Fmaj7
It leaves you baby if you
C Am Dsus2 Fmaj7 G
Don’t care for it
The bridge sections introduce slight variations but largely revolve around these core chords. Learning these sections first will allow you to play a significant portion of the song.
Play Along with the Lyrics and Chords
Here’s the verse and chorus with the chords placed above the lyrics to help you play along:
(Intro) Am Dsus2 Fmaj7 G
(Verse 1)
Am Dsus2
Is it getting better
Fmaj7 G
Or do you feel the same
Am Dsus2
Will it make it easier on you now
Fmaj7 G
You’ve got someone to blame
(Chorus)
C Am
you say one love one life
Fmaj7 C
when its one need in the night
C Am
one love we get to share it
Fmaj7
it leaves you baby if you
C Am Dsus2 Fmaj7 G
dont care for it
(Verse 2)
Am Dsus2
Did I disappoint you
Fmaj7 G
Or leave a bad taste in your mouth?
Am Dsus2
You act like you never had love
Fmaj7 G
and you want me to go without
(Chorus)
C Am
Well it’s too late tonight
Fmaj7 C
to drag the past out into the light
C Am
We’re one, but we’re not the same
Fmaj7 C
We get to carry each other carry each other
Am Dsus2 Fmaj7 G
one
(Verse 3)
Am Dsus2
Have you come here for forgiveness?
Fmaj7 G
Have you come to raise the dead?
Am Dsus2
Have you come here to play Jesus
Fmaj7 G
To the lepers in your head?
(Chorus)
C Am
Did I ask too much more than a lot
Fmaj7 C
You gave me nothing now it’s all I got
(Bridge)
Am
We’re one but we’re not the same
Fmaj7 C
Well we hurt each other then we do it again
**C** **Am**You Say Love is a temple, Love a higher law
C Am
Love is a temple, Love the higher law
C G
You ask me to enter, but then you make me crawl
Fmaj7
And I can’t be holding on to what you got
C Am
When all you got is hurt one love one blood
Fmaj7 C
One life you got to do what you should
Am Fmaj7 C
One life with each other Sisters brothers
C Am
One life but we’re not the same
Fmaj7 C
We get to carry each other carry each other
(Outro)
C Am Fmaj7 C
One One One One
Tips for Beginner Guitarists Learning “One”
- Start Slow: Don’t rush. Focus on clean chord changes and consistent strumming at a slow tempo. Speed will come with practice.
- Practice Chord Transitions: Smooth transitions between chords are key. Practice switching between Am-Dsus2, Dsus2-Fmaj7, Fmaj7-G, and G-Am repeatedly until they become fluid.
- Listen to the Song Regularly: Immerse yourself in the song. Pay attention to the rhythm, dynamics, and feel of the guitar part.
- Use a Metronome: A metronome is invaluable for developing timing and rhythm. Start at a slow BPM and gradually increase the tempo as you improve.
- Break it Down: If the entire song feels overwhelming, break it into smaller sections (intro, verse, chorus). Master each section before moving on.
- Be Patient and Persistent: Learning guitar takes time and dedication. Don’t get discouraged if you don’t get it perfect right away. Consistent practice is the key to success.
Learning to play “One” by U2 on guitar is a rewarding experience. With its simple yet beautiful chord progression and accessible strumming pattern, it’s a fantastic song for beginners to learn and enjoy. So grab your guitar, practice these u2 one guitar chords, and start playing this classic today!
