In the realm of music, certain compositions have the rare ability to transcend time, touching the deepest recesses of the human soul. Among these gems, “Reckless Love” by Cory Asbury stands as a testament to the power of a simple melody and profound lyrics. This enchanting song has found a special place in the hearts of musicians and worshipers alike, resonating with its message of boundless love and unwavering devotion.
If you’ve ever felt the desire to strum your guitar strings or play the piano keys to the tune of “Reckless Love,” you’re not alone. This article is your guide to unlocking the secrets of this beautiful composition. Whether you’re a seasoned musician seeking to add this masterpiece to your repertoire or a beginner looking to embark on a musical journey, we’re here to help you master the “Reckless Love” chords.
Understanding the Basics
Before we delve into the chords themselves, it’s important to understand the fundamentals of “Reckless Love.” The song is characterized by its simplicity and emotional depth, making it a favorite among worship enthusiasts. It’s essential to know the key and chord structure to play it accurately.
“Reckless Love” is typically played in the key of C Major. This key consists of the following chords: C, G, Am, F. The song follows a basic verse-chorus-bridge-chorus structure, making it relatively easy to learn.
The Chords
Now, let’s get to the heart of the matter: the chords. Here’s how to play each of the chords in “Reckless Love.”
- C Major (C): Place your index finger on the 1st fret of the B string, your middle finger on the 2nd fret of the D string, and your ring finger on the 3rd fret of the A string. Strum all the strings except the low E string.
- G Major (G): Put your index finger on the 2nd fret of the A string, your middle finger on the 3rd fret of the low E string, and your ring finger on the 3rd fret of the B string. Strum all the strings.
- A minor (Am): Place your index finger on the 1st fret of the B string, your middle finger on the 2nd fret of the D string, and your ring finger on the 2nd fret of the G string. Strum from the A string down.
- F Major (F): Create a barre chord by pressing down all the strings with your index finger on the 1st fret. Then, add your middle finger to the 2nd fret of the G string and your ring finger to the 3rd fret of the A string.
The Song Structure
Reckless Love” follows a simple yet emotionally charged structure:
- Verse: The song starts with the verse, which is a sequence of the C and G chords. Strum each chord for two beats before switching.
- Chorus: The chorus introduces the Am and F chords, adding depth to the song. The chord progression here is Am, G, F, C. Strum each chord for two beats, maintaining a steady rhythm.
- Bridge: The bridge is a powerful moment in the song. It uses the same chord progression as the chorus: Am, G, F, C. Pay attention to the dynamics, as this section builds up to a climactic moment.
- Final Chorus: The song concludes with another chorus, reinforcing the message of “Reckless Love.” Repeat the Am, G, F, C chord progression as in the previous chorus.
Tips for Playing “Reckless Love” Chords
Mastering the chords is just the beginning. To play “Reckless Love” flawlessly, consider these tips:
- Practice Transitions: Smoothly transitioning between chords is crucial. Start by practicing chord changes slowly and gradually increase your speed as you become more comfortable.
- Strumming Pattern: The strumming pattern for this song is relatively straightforward, with a consistent downstroke rhythm. Focus on accentuating the beats that coincide with the chord changes to capture the song’s emotional essence.
- Dynamics: Pay close attention to dynamics when playing the bridge. Start softly and gradually build up intensity as you approach the climax of the song. This will add depth and emotion to your performance.
- Vocal Accompaniment: If you’re singing while playing, make sure to sync your chord changes with your vocal phrasing. This will create a harmonious blend of melody and chords.
- Use a Capo: Depending on your vocal range and preference, you may want to use a capo to adjust the key of the song. Experiment with different capo positions to find the one that suits your voice best.
Resources for Learning
Learning “Reckless Love” chords can be made easier with the help of various online resources:
- Chord Charts: Search for chord charts and diagrams online. Many websites and apps offer chord sheets for popular songs, including “Reckless Love.”
- Video Tutorials: YouTube is a goldmine of video tutorials where experienced guitarists break down songs step by step. Watching these tutorials can be incredibly beneficial, as you can see and hear how the chords are played.
- Guitar Tabs: Look for guitar tablature (tabs) for “Reckless Love.” Tabs provide a visual representation of how to play the song, making it easier to follow along.
Reckless Love Chords Chart
[Intro]
C G Am F
[Verse]
C G
Before I spoke a word
Am F
You were singing over me
C G
You have been so, so
Am F
Good to me
C G
Before I took a breath
Am F
You breathed Your life in me
C G
You have been so, so
Am F
Kind to me
[Chorus]
Am
Oh, the overwhelming, never-ending, reckless love of God
F
Oh, it chases me down, fights 'til I'm found, leaves the ninety-nine
C
I couldn't earn it, and I don't deserve it, still, You give Yourself away
G Am
Oh, the overwhelming, never-ending, reckless love of God
[Verse]
C G
When I was Your foe
Am F
Still, Your love fought for me
C G
You have been so, so
Am F
Good to me
C G
When I felt no worth
Am F
You paid it all for me
C G
You have been so, so
Am F
Kind to me
[Chorus]
Am
Oh, the overwhelming, never-ending, reckless love of God
F
Oh, it chases me down, fights 'til I'm found, leaves the ninety-nine
C
I couldn't earn it, and I don't deserve it, still, You give Yourself away
G Am
Oh, the overwhelming, never-ending, reckless love of God
[Bridge]
C
There's no shadow You won't light up
G
Mountain You won't climb up
Am
Coming after me
F
There's no wall You won't kick down
C
Lie You won't tear down
G Am
Coming after me
[Chorus]
Am
Oh, the overwhelming, never-ending, reckless love of God
F
Oh, it chases me down, fights 'til I'm found, leaves the ninety-nine
C
I couldn't earn it, and I don't deserve it, still, You give Yourself away
G Am
Oh, the overwhelming, never-ending, reckless love of God
[Outro]
C G Am F
Frequently Asked Questions
What key is “Reckless Love” played in?
“Reckless Love” is typically played in the key of C Major. The main chords used in the song are C, G, Am, and F.
What is the strumming pattern for “Reckless Love”?
The strumming pattern for “Reckless Love” is relatively straightforward, with a consistent downstroke rhythm. You can strum each chord once for each beat, keeping a steady tempo. However, you can also add some variations to match the song’s dynamics and intensity.
Are there any alternative chord progressions for “Reckless Love”?
While the chords C, G, Am, and F are the most common chords used in “Reckless Love,” you can experiment with different variations and voicings of these chords to add your own unique touch to the song. Just be sure to maintain the song’s overall structure.
Can I use a capo to change the key of “Reckless Love”?
Yes, you can use a capo to change the key of “Reckless Love” to better match your vocal range or personal preference. Placing a capo on a higher fret will raise the key while placing it on a lower fret will lower the key. Experiment with different capo positions to find the one that suits your voice.
Are there any simplified versions of the chords for beginners?
If you’re a beginner, you can simplify the chords by using basic open chords for C, G, Am, and F. For example, you can play C as C major, G as G major, Am as A minor, and F as F major. As you become more comfortable, you can explore more complex chord voicings.
Are there any specific chord changes to pay attention to in the song?
Yes, in “Reckless Love,” pay close attention to the chord changes during the chorus and bridge. The chorus follows the chord progression Am, G, F, C. The bridge also uses the same progression. Make sure to transition smoothly between these chords to capture the song’s emotional intensity.
Can I find tutorials or chord charts for “Reckless Love” online?
Absolutely! You can find chord charts, video tutorials, and guitar tabs for “Reckless Love” on various websites and platforms. Websites like Ultimate Guitar, YouTube, and worship music resources often have helpful resources to aid in learning the song.
How do I add dynamics and emotion to my playing of “Reckless Love”?
To add dynamics and emotion, start softly and gradually build up intensity, especially during the bridge and final chorus. Experiment with strumming dynamics, such as strumming harder during intense moments and strumming softly during quieter parts, to convey the song’s message effectively.
Conclusion
Reckless Love” by Cory Asbury is a heartfelt and captivating worship song that has touched the hearts of many. Learning to play this song on your guitar or piano can be a deeply rewarding experience, and understanding the chords is the first step toward mastering it.
In this guide, we provided you with a chord chart, answered frequently asked questions about “Reckless Love” chords, and offered tips to help you play the song flawlessly. Remember that practice, patience, and a deep connection to the music are essential ingredients for success.