(Everything I Do) I Do It For You Lyrics & Chords
Hey guys! Ever wanted to play that iconic power ballad, "(Everything I Do) I Do It for You" by Bryan Adams? You know, the one that was practically glued to the top of the charts back in the day? Well, you're in the right place! This guide isn't just about strumming a few chords; it's about diving deep into the heart of the song, understanding its structure, and getting those lyrics ingrained in your soul. So, grab your guitar, tune up, and let's get started on this epic journey!
Delving into the Lyrics
Let's start with the heart of the song: the lyrics. Understanding the meaning behind those words will not only help you sing it with more emotion but also give you a better feel for the music. Bryan Adams and his team really nailed the universal feeling of devotion and commitment in this one.
- "Look into my eyes - you will see. What you mean to me." Right off the bat, the song opens with a direct and honest declaration. It's all about vulnerability and laying your heart bare. The singer is saying, "Here I am, and you are everything to me."
- "Search your heart - search your soul. And when you find me there you'll search no more." This is where it gets deep. It's not just about surface-level attraction; it's about a connection that resonates within the very core of your being. Finding that person who completes you, so you no longer need to search for love or fulfillment elsewhere.
- "You can't tell me it's not worth tryin' for. You can't tell me it's not worth dyin' for. You know it's true. Everything I do - I do it for you." These lines are the emotional climax of the verse. The singer is resolute, unwavering in their dedication. They are willing to fight for this love, to even sacrifice everything for it. This is the essence of the song's title and its powerful message.
- "Look into your heart, you will find. There's nothin' there to hide." Here, the song shifts the focus to the listener, urging them to be honest and open. It suggests that true love requires vulnerability and transparency.
- "Take me as I am, take my life. I would give it all, I would sacrifice." The singer offers themselves completely, without reservation. It's a pledge of unconditional love and unwavering support.
- "You can't tell me it's not worth fightin' for. I can't help it, there's nothin' I want more. Ya know it's true. Everything I do - I do it for you." This is the final affirmation, a powerful restatement of the song's central theme. The repetition reinforces the depth of the singer's commitment. The use of "Ya know it's true" adds a conversational, intimate touch, drawing the listener closer to the emotion.
The bridge: "There's no love like your love and no other could give me more love. There's nowhere unless you're there, all the time, all the way." This section emphasizes the uniqueness and irreplaceable nature of the love being expressed. It is the pinnacle of devotion, where nothing else matters but the presence and love of the other person.
In essence, the lyrics of "(Everything I Do) I Do It for You" are a timeless ode to unwavering love, commitment, and the willingness to sacrifice everything for that special someone. Understanding these lyrics allows you to connect with the song on a deeper level, enhancing your performance and appreciation.
Chord Breakdown and Song Structure
Okay, now that we've dissected the lyrics, let's get our hands dirty with the chords! This song isn't super complicated, but nailing the transitions and getting the feel right is key. The song primarily revolves around a few core chords, making it accessible to intermediate guitarists, and even beginners willing to stretch themselves. Remember to practice slowly at first, focusing on clean chord changes before speeding up to the proper tempo.
Standard Tuning
First things first: make sure your guitar is in standard tuning (E, A, D, G, B, e). This is crucial for playing the song correctly. Use a tuner or a reliable online tuning resource to ensure accurate tuning.
Core Chords
The main chords you'll need are:
- D (D Major): This is a fundamental chord and appears frequently throughout the song. Finger placement: Index finger on the 2nd fret of the G string, middle finger on the 2nd fret of the E string, and ring finger on the 3rd fret of the B string. Strum all strings.
- G (G Major): Another essential chord, providing a bright, uplifting sound. Finger placement: Middle finger on the 6th string, 3rd fret; index finger on the 5th string, 2nd fret; and ring finger on the 1st string, 3rd fret. Strum all strings.
- Em (E minor): This chord adds a touch of melancholy and depth to the song. Finger placement: Middle finger on the 5th string, 2nd fret; and ring finger on the 4th string, 2nd fret. Strum all strings.
- A (A Major): A powerful chord that helps build the intensity of the song. Finger placement: Index finger on the 4th string, 2nd fret; middle finger on the 3rd string, 2nd fret; and ring finger on the 2nd string, 2nd fret. Strum from the 5th string.
- Bm (B minor): This is the most challenging chord for beginners, but it's important for the complete sound. Barre your index finger across the 2nd fret of all six strings. Place your middle finger on the 3rd fret of the B string, ring finger on the 4th fret of the D string, and pinky on the 4th fret of the G string. Strum all strings. An easier alternative is to play Bm7 (x24232).
- F#m (F sharp minor): To play this chord, barre your index finger across the 2nd fret, place your middle finger on the 3rd fret of the B string, ring finger on the 4th fret of the D string and pinky finger on the 4th fret of the G string. This chord can be tricky for beginners, so focus on getting a clean sound. Alternatively, you could play F#m7 which is easier to play.
Verse Chord Progression
The verse typically follows this progression:
D - G - Em - A
Practice transitioning smoothly between these chords. Focus on accuracy and timing. Try different strumming patterns to find one that suits your style and the feel of the song. A simple down-down-up-down-up pattern works well.
Chorus Chord Progression
The chorus is where the song really takes off. The main progression is:
G - D - Em - A
This sequence provides a lift and emphasizes the emotional intensity of the lyrics. Make sure to strum with conviction here, conveying the power of the message.
Bridge Chord Progression
The bridge offers a slight variation, adding a touch of drama:
Bm - G - D - A
The Bm chord adds a bit of tension before resolving back to the familiar D and A. This section is crucial for building the song's dynamics.
Song Structure
A typical structure for "(Everything I Do) I Do It for You" is:
- Verse 1
- Chorus
- Verse 2
- Chorus
- Bridge
- Guitar Solo
- Chorus
- Outro
Understanding the structure helps you anticipate the chord changes and dynamics, making your performance more polished and engaging.
Strumming Patterns and Techniques
Alright, let's talk about strumming! The right strumming pattern can make or break a song. While there's no single