May You Never by Eric Clapton - Guitar Lesson Breakdown

"May You Never" by Eric Clapton is a beautiful, acoustic-driven song that highlights Clapton's more subtle and melodic side. Originally written by folk legend John Martyn, Clapton’s cover of this song brings a unique blend of folk and blues to the forefront, making it a perfect choice for guitarists who want to focus on acoustic techniques. Our note-for-note guitar lesson on "May You Never" focuses on two key techniques: barre chords and the use of a capo. These techniques are crucial for capturing the song’s rich harmonic structure and intricate rhythm. Whether you’re an intermediate player looking to refine your chord transitions or a beginner working with a capo for the first time, this lesson will guide you through each essential step. This lesson is taught by Danny Gill.

Key Techniques in May You Never

Barre Chords

Barre chords are one of the foundational techniques used in "May You Never", providing a strong harmonic foundation for the song’s chord progression. A barre chord involves using your index finger to press down across multiple strings on the fretboard, while the other fingers shape the rest of the chord. This allows you to play a variety of chord shapes that can easily be moved up and down the neck, giving you more flexibility in your playing.

In "May You Never," Clapton uses barre chords to shift smoothly between chords while maintaining a rich, full sound. Mastering barre chords will improve your hand strength and flexibility, making it easier to play more complex chord voicings and progressions. This lesson will guide you through the essential barre chord shapes used in the song, helping you transition between them smoothly and effectively. Learning to play barre chords is crucial for any guitarist who wants to expand their repertoire and play more advanced chord structures.

Capo

The use of a capo is another key technique in "May You Never". A capo allows you to change the pitch of the guitar without altering the chord shapes you play. By placing the capo on a specific fret, you can easily transpose the song to a different key while still using familiar open chord shapes. This not only makes the song easier to play but also gives it a brighter, more resonant tone that complements the acoustic arrangement.

In our lesson, we’ll show you how Clapton uses the capo to enhance the harmonic richness of the song. Learning how to use a capo will give you more versatility as a guitarist, allowing you to adapt songs to different vocal ranges or create new tonal textures. We’ll walk you through the process of placing and adjusting the capo, ensuring you can replicate the smooth, ringing sound heard in "May You Never".

About the Guitar Player in May You Never

Eric Clapton, often celebrated as one of the greatest guitarists of all time, is known for his ability to effortlessly switch between electric blues and more intimate acoustic pieces. His version of "May You Never" showcases his sensitivity and depth as a guitarist, bringing a warm, soulful touch to John Martyn’s folk classic. Clapton’s acoustic work on this track is filled with rich chord voicings and smooth transitions, using barre chords and a capo to great effect. The song is a prime example of Clapton’s ability to blend technical proficiency with emotional expression, making it a valuable study for guitarists aiming to improve their rhythm playing and chord transitions.

The Influence of John Martyn and Eric Clapton

John Martyn, the original composer of "May You Never", was a pioneering figure in the British folk scene. His innovative approach to folk music incorporated elements of jazz, blues, and rock, creating a unique sound that influenced countless musicians, including Clapton. When Clapton covered "May You Never," he brought his own bluesy sensibility to the song, blending Martyn’s folk influence with his own smooth acoustic style. This blend of folk and blues gives the song a timeless quality, and learning it offers a valuable insight into how Clapton approaches acoustic playing with both sensitivity and technical mastery.

For guitarists, Clapton’s version of "May You Never" serves as a masterclass in chord voicings and acoustic guitar techniques, making it an ideal song to study for players looking to improve their rhythmic and harmonic skills.

Guitar Techniques Covered in This Lesson

• Barre Chords
• Capo

By mastering these key techniques, you’ll be able to play "May You Never" with the same fluidity and emotion that Eric Clapton brings to the song. This lesson provides the tools you need to replicate Clapton’s acoustic style while improving your overall guitar skills. Dive into our detailed lesson and bring this folk-blues classic to life on your guitar!