Learning to play worship songs on guitar can be an incredibly rewarding experience, deepening your connection with music and faith. “Who You Say I Am” by Hillsong Worship is a fantastic song for guitarists looking to explore the heart of worship through music, and it’s surprisingly accessible for those still developing their skills.
Simple Chords for Powerful Worship
This popular worship anthem is built upon a foundation of four fundamental guitar chords: G, Em, D, and C. These are cornerstone chords that are essential for any guitarist to learn, making “Who You Say I Am” an excellent choice for practice and building your chord vocabulary.
The chord progression in “Who You Say I Am” is structured in a way that’s both musically pleasing and easy to follow. In the verses, you’ll typically play through G, Em, D, G and then G, Em, D, C. This slight variation keeps the verses engaging while maintaining a consistent and worshipful feel. The chorus often emphasizes a similar progression, making it simple to transition between song sections.
For beginners, the repetition and familiarity of these chords are a real advantage. You can focus on smooth chord transitions and rhythm without getting bogged down by complex fingerings. This allows you to concentrate on the emotional expression of the song – the true “heart of worship.”
Playing “Who You Say I Am”: Tips for Beginners
While the chords themselves are straightforward, the song does involve some quicker chord changes, particularly in the chorus. Don’t be discouraged if you find this challenging at first. Here are a few tips to help you master it:
- Practice chord transitions slowly: Focus on moving smoothly and accurately between G, Em, D, and C. Use a metronome to gradually increase your speed.
- Listen to the song frequently: Familiarize yourself with the rhythm and timing of the chord changes by listening to “Who You Say I Am” regularly. Playing along with the recording can be incredibly helpful.
- Break it down: Practice the verse and chorus progressions separately before putting them together.
With consistent practice, those faster chord switches will become much easier, and you’ll be playing “Who You Say I Am” with confidence.
Why “Who You Say I Am” Resonates with the Heart of Worship
“Who You Say I Am” isn’t just another song with easy guitar chords; it’s a powerful declaration of faith and identity in Christ. The lyrics explore themes of belonging, redemption, and the transformative love of God. Playing these chords while singing these words allows you to engage with the song on a deeper level, making it a truly meaningful worship experience.
The simplicity of the chords actually enhances the worshipful nature of the song. It removes technical barriers and allows you to fully focus on the message and connect with God. Whether you’re playing in a church setting, leading worship, or simply spending personal time in devotion, “Who You Say I Am” on guitar can be a beautiful expression of your “heart of worship.”
Learning “Who You Say I Am” on guitar is a rewarding journey for any guitarist, especially those drawn to worship music. Embrace the simplicity of these chords, practice diligently, and let this song become a part of your worshipful expression.
