Hey guys! Today, we’re diving into Justin Bieber's hit song, "Intentions," featuring Quavo. This track is not only super catchy but also relatively easy to play on guitar, making it perfect for beginner and intermediate guitarists. We’ll break down the chords, strumming patterns, and give you some tips to master this song quickly. So, grab your guitar, and let’s get started!

Chords You'll Need

Before we jump into the song structure, let's quickly go over the essential chords you'll need to play "Intentions." The song primarily revolves around a few simple chords, making it accessible for most players.

1. B♭ (B flat): This can be played as a barre chord. Place your index finger across the first fret of the A string (5th string). Then, place your middle finger on the 3rd fret of the A string, your ring finger on the 3rd fret of the D string, and your pinky on the 3rd fret of the G string. This chord might be a bit challenging at first, but with practice, you’ll get it down.
2. E♭ (E flat): Similar to B flat, this is also often played as a barre chord. Barre your index finger across the 6th fret. Place your middle finger on the 8th fret of the A string, your ring finger on the 8th fret of the D string, and your pinky on the 8th fret of the G string. Barre chords require some finger strength and coordination, so don’t get discouraged if it takes a while to sound clean.
3. Gm (G minor): This is another barre chord, which can be played by barring the 3rd fret with your index finger. Place your middle finger on the 5th fret of the A string, your ring finger on the 5th fret of the D string, and your pinky on the 5th fret of the G string. G minor adds a touch of melancholy to the song.
4. F (F major): You can play this as a barre chord or in its simplified form. For the barre chord, barre the first fret. Place your middle finger on the 2nd fret of the G string, your ring finger on the 3rd fret of the D string, and your pinky on the 3rd fret of the A string. Alternatively, the simplified version involves playing only the top four strings, which can be easier for beginners.

Mastering these chords is the foundation for playing "Intentions." Take your time, practice transitioning between them smoothly, and you’ll be well on your way to nailing this song. Remember, consistency is key!

Song Structure and Chord Progression

Now that we've covered the chords, let's look at how they fit into the song's structure. "Intentions" follows a pretty standard pop song arrangement, which makes it easy to follow. Understanding the structure will help you play along with the song seamlessly.

• Verse: The verse typically uses the progression B♭ - E♭ - Gm - F. This sequence repeats, creating a melodic and harmonic foundation for Justin’s vocals. Pay attention to the transitions between these chords; smoothness is crucial. Each chord usually gets four beats, but listen to the song to get the exact timing right.
• Pre-Chorus: The pre-chorus builds up the energy leading into the chorus. It often uses the same chord progression as the verse but with a slightly different rhythm or emphasis to create anticipation. In "Intentions," the pre-chorus maintains the B♭ - E♭ - Gm - F progression, but you might notice a slight variation in the strumming pattern.
• Chorus: The chorus is where the song really shines. It uses the same B♭ - E♭ - Gm - F progression, but it's delivered with more intensity and emotion. This is the part everyone remembers, so make sure you nail the chord changes and strumming pattern here. Feel the energy and let it flow through your playing.
• Bridge: The bridge provides a break from the main progression and adds a different flavor to the song. While the exact chords might vary slightly, the bridge in "Intentions" still incorporates elements of the main progression, ensuring a cohesive feel. Listen closely to the bridge to identify any subtle changes or variations in the chord sequence. It might offer a welcome change for your fingers too!

By understanding the song structure and chord progression, you can easily follow along and play "Intentions" with confidence. Practice each section individually before putting it all together. Happy playing!

Strumming Patterns

Alright, let’s talk strumming patterns! The right strumming pattern can make or break a song. For “Intentions,” a simple yet effective strumming pattern will do the trick. Here are a couple of options you can use, depending on your skill level and the vibe you want to create:

1. Basic Strum: A great starting point is a simple Down, Down, Up, Down, Up pattern. This pattern works well for most of the song, especially during the verses and pre-chorus. Focus on keeping a steady rhythm and maintaining consistent dynamics.
2. Slightly More Complex: If you want to add a bit more groove, try Down, Down, Up, Mute, Up, Down, Up. The “Mute” involves lightly touching the strings with your strumming hand to create a percussive sound. This can add a nice rhythmic texture to the song.

Experiment with these strumming patterns and see which one feels best for you. Listen to the song carefully and try to mimic the strumming pattern used by the guitar in the recording. Remember, the key is to keep the rhythm consistent and to play with confidence.

Don't be afraid to get creative with your strumming patterns. Try adding some variations or syncopation to make the song your own. The most important thing is to have fun and to express yourself through your playing.

Tips for Beginners

Learning a new song can be challenging, especially if you're a beginner. But don't worry, with a few helpful tips, you'll be playing "Intentions" in no time. Here are some pointers to keep in mind:

• Start Slow: When learning the chords and strumming patterns, start at a slower tempo. This will give you time to focus on accuracy and to develop muscle memory. Gradually increase the speed as you become more comfortable.
• Practice Chord Transitions: Smooth chord transitions are essential for playing the song seamlessly. Practice switching between the chords slowly and deliberately. Use a metronome to help you keep a steady beat.
• Use a Metronome: A metronome is a valuable tool for improving your timing and rhythm. Set the metronome to a slow tempo and practice playing the chords and strumming patterns along with the beat.
• Listen to the Song: Listen to "Intentions" repeatedly to familiarize yourself with the song's structure, rhythm, and dynamics. Pay attention to the guitar part and try to mimic the strumming pattern and chord voicings.
• Break It Down: If you're struggling with a particular section of the song, break it down into smaller parts. Practice each part individually until you can play it flawlessly, then gradually put it all together.
• Be Patient: Learning guitar takes time and practice. Don't get discouraged if you don't get it right away. Just keep practicing, and eventually, you'll get there.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

Even experienced guitarists make mistakes from time to time. But by being aware of common pitfalls, you can avoid them and improve your playing. Here are some common mistakes to watch out for when playing "Intentions:":

• Rushing the Tempo: One of the most common mistakes is rushing the tempo. Make sure you're playing at a consistent speed and not speeding up or slowing down. Use a metronome to help you keep a steady beat.
• Incorrect Chord Voicings: Using the wrong chord voicings can make the song sound off. Double-check that you're using the correct fingerings for each chord.
• Inconsistent Strumming: Inconsistent strumming can make the song sound choppy and uneven. Focus on maintaining a smooth and consistent strumming pattern.
• Not Listening to the Original: Not listening to the original recording can lead to inaccuracies in your playing. Listen to the song carefully and pay attention to the nuances of the guitar part.
• Giving Up Too Easily: Learning a new song can be challenging, but don't give up too easily. Keep practicing, and eventually, you'll get it.

Conclusion

So there you have it, guys! Playing Justin Bieber's "Intentions" on guitar is totally achievable with a bit of practice and patience. By understanding the chords, song structure, and strumming patterns, you'll be able to impress your friends and family with your musical skills. Remember to start slow, practice consistently, and don't be afraid to make mistakes. Most importantly, have fun and enjoy the process of learning and playing music. Now go grab your guitar and start strumming! You've got this!