Finding Songs by Chords: A Comprehensive Guide for Guitar Players

Is There a Website Where I Can Enter Guitar Chords I Know and It Will Give Me a List of Songs to Play?

Not that I know of.

But I can see how it sounds like a great idea from the first glance. As both a computer science student and a guitar player, I feel obliged to answer this question. It's a fascinating concept that has the potential to revolutionize the way we discover new songs.

The Concept Explained

First, let's clarify a few concepts. There exists a device called a capo that allows us to play different chords with the same chord shape. As a result, we prefer to call our C, G, A, D, E chords "chord shapes." When you're referring to the chords you know, it's better to interpret it as the chord shapes you know. These shapes are the building blocks of countless chord progressions.

Secondly, there are many songs that can be played as simple or as advanced as we want. Different tab makers often provide various interpretations and opinions, which can lead to confusion. Therefore, it's best to use official tabs to determine which songs match the chords you already know.

However, determining whether you know how to play a chord like Am7 given that you know how to play Am can be tricky. These two chords are played very similarly and are used interchangeably to add different flavors to the song. This can lead to a subjective interpretation of your chord knowledge.

Searching for Songs by Chords

But for the general public – those who are perhaps not as picky and detail-driven as me – such a website would be a great idea if it doesn't already exist. For instance, websites like Ultimate Guitar and Tably can provide chord diagrams and song tabs, but you need to learn the chords yourself.

Music is about self-expression. I often play a song in many different ways, with various chords and techniques. You can explore a wide range of chords and find the ones you love, then apply them to other songs.

Hurdles and Recommendations

You are going about this entirely wrong. You really should get a teacher to help you. This advice is sincere and not meant to belittle you. Music is a way of communicating. You should start by having something to say and a song to play, then learn what chords and notes express it.

Your question is like asking, "I know a bunch of words. Where is a website that will give me a list of stories to tell with them?" Music is not a linear process; it's an art form that requires creativity, practice, and understanding.

Final Thoughts

While the concept of a website that suggests songs based on chords you know is appealing, it's crucial to approach it with a broader, more comprehensive mindset. Learning chords, understanding music theory, and gaining experience through practice are key to becoming a better guitarist and musician.