Charleston Classical Guitar

Elevate Your Guitar Skills with Intermediate Power Chord and Bar Chord Songs

As an intermediate guitarist, you’ve got the basics down and are hungry for more. Power chords and bar chords open up a world of possibilities, and mastering them is a significant step in your musical journey. In this blog post, I explore a range of songs tailored to your skill level, helping you improve your intermediate power chord and bar chord proficiency.

What are Power Chords?

Before we dive into the intermediate songs, let’s take a moment to understand the foundation of many rock and punk tunes – power chords. Power chords are essential for any budding guitarist, and they play a significant role in the songs we’re about to explore.

A power chord is a two-note chord that consists of the root note and its fifth. They are often referred to as 5th chords, and their simplicity is one of the reasons they are so popular. Power chords are neither major nor minor, which makes them versatile for a wide range of musical styles. Their formula is quite straightforward: the root note and the note that is seven semitones higher (which happens to be the perfect 5th interval). Below is an example of a G power chord at the third fret.

Intermediate Power Chord image power chord

To play a power chord, you typically use your index finger to press down the root note on the fretboard, and your ring finger or pinky finger to press down the fifth. This creates a strong, full sound that’s often used to create that characteristic “rock” or “punk” feel.

Power chords are frequently used in rock and punk music because they are easy to transition between and can be played with distortion for a powerful, aggressive sound. Learning power chords is an essential step for any aspiring rock guitarist, and you’ll find them prominently featured in many of the songs in this list.

What are Bar/Barre Chords?

As you venture into the world of intermediate guitar playing, you’ll encounter another fundamental chord type – bar chords, sometimes spelled as “barre chords.” These chords expand your harmonic palette and enable you to play a broader range of songs, including those with more complex harmonies.

A bar chord is a type of chord where one finger, typically the index finger, is used to press down multiple strings across the fretboard, effectively acting as a movable nut. The remaining fingers form a chord shape above this “bar.” The name “bar” comes from the bar-like action of your index finger pressing all the strings down at once. Below is an example of a G bar chord on fret 3.

There are two main types of bar chords: major and minor. Major bar chords are formed by barring all the strings at a particular fret and creating a major chord shape above the bar. Minor bar chords are similarly constructed but involve creating a minor chord shape. The positioning of the bar (the fret at which you place your index finger) determines the chord’s root note and thus its pitch.

Bar chords can be moved up and down the fretboard to play different chords, which is why they are considered “movable” chords. They are invaluable for playing songs in different keys and for adding depth and complexity to your chord progressions.

In the upcoming sections, we’ll explore songs that incorporate both power chords and bar chords, helping you further develop your guitar skills.

Easy Power Chord/Bar Chord Songs for Intermediate Guitarists

“Cut Me Some Slack” by Paul McCartney, Dave Grohl, Krist Novoselic, Pat Smear

Difficulty Level: Easy

“Cut Me Some Slack” is a powerhouse of a song, driven by legendary musicians from different eras. This song combines raw power with simple chord progressions. You’ll use power chords for the verses and chorus, making it a perfect tune for honing your power chord transitions and rhythmic strumming.

Check out the tabs/chords here.

“American Idiot” by Green Day

Difficulty Level: Easy

Green Day’s “American Idiot” is a punk rock anthem that’s not only catchy but also an excellent workout for your power chords. The entire song is built around power chord shapes and features an iconic riff. It’s a great choice for beginners transitioning into intermediate playing.

Check out the tab/chords here.

“Boulevard of Broken Dreams” by Green Day

Difficulty Level: Easy

While you’re exploring Green Day’s catalog, don’t miss “Boulevard of Broken Dreams.” This song employs both power chords and bar chords, offering a perfect opportunity to practice chord switches. The song’s melancholic atmosphere and memorable melody make it a must-learn for any aspiring guitarist.

Check out the tabs/chords here.

Medium-Difficulty Power Chord/Bar Chord Songs for Intermediate Guitarists

“Barracuda” by Heart

Difficulty Level: Intermediate

Heart’s “Barracuda” is a rock classic featuring a powerful riff driven by barre chords. This song will push your barre chord skills to the next level. Mastering the intro riff and navigating the chord changes in the chorus will provide a solid challenge for any intermediate player.

Check out the tabs/chords here.

“Enter Sandman” by Metallica

Difficulty Level: Intermediate

Metallica’s “Enter Sandman” is a staple of rock and metal guitar playing. The iconic main riff combines power chords and palm muting, a technique often used in metal music. Learning this song will enhance your rhythm guitar skills and precision.

Check out the tabs/chords here.

“Point of No Return” by Kansas

Difficulty Level: Intermediate

Kansas’ “Point of No Return” is a progressive rock gem with dynamic chord progressions. It’s an excellent choice for practicing barre chords and their transitions. The song’s evolving structure and intricate guitar work will challenge your finger strength and dexterity.

Check out the tabs/chords here.

“Remedy” by The Black Crowes

Difficulty Level: Intermediate

“Remedy” by The Black Crowes is a bluesy rock song with a catchy riff and soulful vocals. The main riff employs power chords and features some quick chord changes. It’s a great tune to develop your timing and accuracy while playing power chords.

Check out the tabs/chords here.

Hard Power Chord/Bar Chord Songs for Intermediate Guitarists

“Everlong” by Foo Fighters

Difficulty Level: Advanced

Foo Fighters’ “Everlong” offers a masterclass in dynamic songwriting and intricate guitar work. While the main riff primarily relies on power chords, the song’s tempo and rhythm changes make it challenging. The ability to smoothly transition between quiet and heavy sections is a hallmark of this track.

Check out the tabs/chords here.

“Spoonman” by Soundgarden

Difficulty Level: Advanced

“Spoonman” showcases Soundgarden’s distinctive sound and Chris Cornell’s powerful vocals. The song features intricate guitar work and uses a combination of power chords, bar chords, and various guitar techniques such as slides and hammer-ons. The song’s riff and solo sections are challenging, making it an excellent choice for intermediate guitarists looking to take their skills to the next level.

Check out the tabs/chords here.

“Crazy Train” by Ozzy Osbourne

Difficulty Level: Advanced

Randy Rhoads’ masterpiece, “Crazy Train,” features blistering riffs and intricate power chord work. The song’s fast-paced riffing and complex chord progressions will test your speed and accuracy. Mastering this track is a sure sign of an advanced guitarist.

Check out the tabs/chords here.

Conclusion

Incorporate these songs into your practice routine, starting with the easier ones and working your way up to the more challenging selections. As you progress, you’ll notice your power chord and bar chord skills improving, and you’ll be well on your way to becoming an accomplished intermediate guitarist. Happy strumming!

Also, check out our other useful articles:

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