The Secret to Easy BARRE CHORDS! • Pro Guitar Lessons

[@roymccarty6931]

You can play on any stage in the world but what's really great is that you teach!

[@emerro57]

Teaching us how you do what you do! That's the best thing I've ever seen!! A vertuoso who teaches is the best!

[@patrickhenry8425]

Guthrie Govan comes to mind!

[@nahbruvv238]

@@patrickhenry8425 Never heard of Guthrie Govan before, thanks for pointing me in the right direction!

[@patrickhenry8425]

Dude is amazing. A virtuoso by any definition of the word.

[@mollyp.sasser223]

virtuoso

[@AndyPWolf]

Ah, and not only how you dou it but WHY you do it - that's most rare and enlightening.👍

[@cptsuperstraight6924]

I bought two wrist strengthener when I was a teenager to help me. Also a good idea to practice making every string sound well with just the first finger barre.

[@Jm-hq7eb]

Every time you teach something, I expect to hear what I've heard before. You always surprise me with so many knowledge nuggets! Thank you!

[@halrogers401]

You're so accomplished, yet you can relate to the struggling newbie! Rare attributes. Thanks so much, Justin.

[@le_th_]

Easy to love someone who so clearly remembers his first days learning, and is also willing to share tips so others don't have to go through the same thing and can progress more easily.

[@spacekadebt1641]

Newish guitar player here. Thank you kindly for the help. More tools in my bag now. I like your style & love your music!

[@mnumumnumu2646]

Oh yeah, I second that emotion! Same here.

[@dlux703]

Wish I'd had a "tell it like it is" teacher when I was learning. Yur da man.

[@p.l.g3190]

THE YOU, Mr. Johnson! Barre chords have been the bane of my guitar life for years. I don't enjoy pain in my hands, for some reason. I am also relieved to know I'm not the only one. God bless you, sir!

[@billbinnings4347]

This is valuable information...best learned EARLY instead of having to "discover" all the technique LATER the hard way through experience. I use all these "tricks" to alleviate pain while playing. Sometimes just relieving one or two full barre chords and substituting the abbreviated shape will stop cramping enough. Also, you are dead-on with the lighter string gauge use, it is HUGE !! I play a '68 GIBSON "DOVE" dreadnought with D'Addario EXP 10's on it and I would not switch EVER from these strings. Easy to play, bend, hammer, pull-off and the volume and tone are awesome !! You have covered in 12 minutes what it took me 4-5 decades to "figure-out" for myself. Love your playing style, sir....keep doing and growning, you are poised for greatness.

[@audiophileman7047]

Well said! 👍👍👍

[@jonkerr2050]

This video could not have come at a better time. I started playing a few months ago. Im playing pretty much all open chord country stuff. Those damn F, B, Bb barre chords have been limiting me a lot. Can’t wait to get home and practice your tips. Thank you. Also, I LOVE your music. Your playing is so beautiful and smooth.

[@markbundy1694]

This is Good Stuff whether you’re a pro or a beginner!!! 👍🤘🏼👊

[@robertlucas9867]

Another thing I heard recently and I noticed you doing it and maybe didn’t notice is playing right behind the fret or on top of it. It helps because you don’t have to use as much pressure. I’ve seen people press in middle of fret or back near the fret that is behind your finger. If you watch you press right behind or on fret.

[@MOzarkMike]

How I wish there had been a KZbin when I was young and experimenting with musical instruments. If you don’t “get it” when one teacher tries to teach you, you can find other teachers who explain it differently. I might have been more encouraged to stick with it. You are an insightful teacher. Also an amazing guitarist. Much appreciated! I thoroughly enjoy your music.

[@BlueYiperoo]

Justin, you do a great job teaching.

[@sazon860]

I actually took my first KZbin lesson from him on finger picking years ago, and been following since. 👌🏻

[@Methilde]

Smart and clear, thanks.

[@basilreardon5783]

I realize it's simple to you Justin since you've been playing for 30yrs . The hand position on The fret neck for me has helped out enormously . Great insight.....thanks so much .

[@danbgt]

Good info for us older newbies. Bar chords just suck as far as I’m concerned. I have been working on that thumb over technique. Thanks for the pointers!!

[@mellowfred8935]

Justin is the man ! Yeah, go slow guys don’t injure your hand. Stretch your hands before you play. Give your hands a good hot water soak if they’re aching. Some acoustics can be very difficult if you have a higher action for sure.

[@domaroshiner-hut]

You know, your speech is so clean. I'm Russian, but understand every word you say. That's amasing cause sometimes I don't understand a thing while American tells.

[@Jm-hq7eb]

I've heard many say that some southern US accents are easier to hear if English is a second language. In the south, we elongate our vowels, making them easier to pick out. I dont know how true it is, just my .02.

[@davidwillis9270]

Been a drummer for 43 years, always wanted to learn some simple guitar techniques... thank you, Justin!

[@pameladecicco6509]

Great info Justin. Especially for someone with arthritis who loves guitar. Thanks so much. The simple things can matter the most!

[@retrozombie29]

1:57 instinctively going in with the pinky, catches himself. The man is so good he has to remind himself to just play a normal, boring E major. What a legend.

[@johnrudy9404]

Im here in September of 2024...trying to always learn. Like your teaching style, Justin.

[@chucklutter2509]

Have listened to your performances hundreds if not thousands of times. First time watching an instruction video. VERY WELL DONE. Thank you for sharing your talents, and making these videos available. BEST AND PEACE

[@razvanaldea9562]

Your the best teacher I've known!

[@lpjbird]

Hahaha…where were you 50 years ago when I had almost given up on using Barr chords! Great video for beginners & novices alike. Your amazingly talented & I really enjoy all you do. Rock on 🤘

[@Ashaliel]

gosh darn it. the applying pressure with the strumming forearm is brilliant. thank you! i've been trying to death grip with my thumb, lol.

[@mitsanut5869]

John, I'm so glad I discovered you. You have such a calming effect on me when explaining things. Originally a keyboard player, I decided to pursue my lifelong temptation to learn guitar as well. Just from your few you tube videos like this, I was able to work on finger picking and other things you touched. Your style of taching fits perfectly my psyche. You are patient in explaining and your methods are very useful. Thank you

[@TRGP331]

That hand position (tip 1) helped me out. My hands are wrecked from years of construction work and this will let me play longer. Always love your lessons and playing. You're one of the coolest guitarists on the interwebs.

[@justinjohnsonlive]

Thanks so much and I hope you're still at it! FYI, I have a new members only guitar lesson section here on KZbin, specifically teaching my style of playing. If you're interested in guitar lessons, you can check it out by clicking the "Join" button under this video, or this link(be sure to choose the GUITAR LESSONS level): kzbin.infojoin

[@TRGP331]

@@justinjohnsonlive Still at it, my dude! I will check out those lessons!

[@georgemcclurkin4378]

Never stop playing Justin

[@mnumumnumu2646]

Hey, this is so very helpful. I haven't tried all this out yet but I'm optimistic. I'm somewhat handicapped by being old and arthritis. No big deal 'cause I'm having fun, making progress, and have an exceptional teacher in you! All my best to y'all, M.M.

[@W5nmwh50]

Thanks so much Justin, I recently sustained nerve damage to my barre muscle. Your techniques give me new hope!

[@r.parker1933]

Great stuff. Been playing for nearly 30 years, but there's ALWAYS something new to learn, even on something that seems basic. The trick with counter-pressure from your picking arm was a new one, and I can't wait to try it out. Thanks!

[@clydelourensz4077]

Thanks heaps Justin. Such a simple little lesson, but contains a wealth of very practical information.

[@rob8482]

That was so good! Great tones and great information! Thank you.

[@marysefonta8371]

Thanks to give us technics for better playing, Justin ! Have a nice day.

[@rickoliver2059]

Thank you JJ , this shows me we are never too old to learn something ! To me , this was great info on the capo and of course , doing away with some of the barre chords . Cheers from NZ .

[@dailybaglimit]

I enjoyed this video. Especially the tip on backward pressure on the guitar body with the picking arm to assist a tired barre cord hand. I hadn’t heard that one before, it may come in handy. Great content as usual Justin, Thank you.

[@Krizrax]

Thanks Justin, I think it's great that you put out these free lessons. You rock!

[@mnumumnumu2646]

Hey, Guitar World you picked the one best relatable teacher there is for me. Thanks

[@mrg6663]

A virtuoso who is a good professor too. Love your music and thanks so much for teaching as well.

[@lyndajolacava4891]

I've been playing for years, but I have to say that you have taught me a lot about yeah bar chords but other skill stuff too, I usually use the capo,but after this video I will try again with the bar chords especially that thumb method. So again thank you so very

[@kowal767]

Justin, very good trick with pushing back with elbow.

[@imannonymous7707]

I've improved by counter leverage with my rhythm arm too . And by reinforcing the barre with my middle finger too..... yep they work ....thanks

[@nahbruvv238]

Your positioning tips were so helpful, I really want to master the hendrix chords they look so much more comfortable than trad bar chords, electric guitar is no problem but with my classical guitar my hands are way to small for the guitar neck 😫 gotta streeeetttccchhh lol thanks for the tips! Great lesson :)

[@huseynguitar4676]

Hello. First of all, thank you for this wonderful lesson. When I started learning a new guitar, I had great difficulties learning bar chords, and it lasted for months.

[@michaellacy8510]

Ive used that thumb trick for years on some songs. Never felt quite legit, but it does work! Thanks for the tips. Love your playing!

[@gock66]

Thanks Justin, great advice. Love your videos!

[@coleyoung373]

Cheers mate! From all the less talented and beginners!!! Any timing, strumming and picking advice or tips would be really appreciated too bro! ✌️

[@MatthewJacobDaniel]

Very very valuable, no matter how many years (23 myself) you’ve been playing. All wrapped in one video, very cool and useful.

[@rogers3142]

Utilized the counter pushing with the forearm, instant progression on my Bs, the Fs shape is still something to be desired in sound quality yet it is progress. so happy with that little tip and getting instant gratification. From some old dude just learning. Thanks man

[@Saltwater-Beagles]

Your a great teacher!!! Thank you for sharing some of your techniques with us..

[@LilliHerveau]

Yes, yes, I talked about this way to use the forearm for the counterpressure to a friend but he said he didn't know what I meant, I'm glad to see it's actually a thing :D

[@rogerm8677]

4:23... thanks for all JJ , you are doing a fantastic job

[@markmarkofkane8167]

Very enjoyable. I am learning major chords. I only memorized 3. I need a lot more practice. When I was younger, I only liked electric guitars. As I got older, I really started appreciate the acoustical guitar. Need no electricity, no amp. And good players like yourself make them sound so good!

[@Mauitaoist]

Another tip Justin didn't mention it's just down a half to a full step. You can even down and a half a fret and put a capo on the first fret it makes it easier to barchord

[@llah-official]

Thank you for playing with good technique🙏🏻😁🏻😁

[@jimncheryl]

Thanks Justin! You’re a gifted teacher. This kind of detailed technique video by a master can give me a leap in learning. Sometimes subtle little ergonomic positioning makes an unbelievable difference. I had three carpals removed from my left wrist, so mobility isn’t normal and I need to compensate sometimes. Immensely informative. Thanks again, man - keep ‘‘em coming!!

[@robinbyrd410]

Yes sir I’m a old lady trying to learn a new tricks .. You have beautiful hands ..I’ve been watching you play for a while. ( I’m old …not dead lol)😉Anyway thank you for sharing…I need to learn these.

[@shaunyboy45]

I soooooo love that furch........my dream guitar green series

[@andyleibrook6012]

This was a great video on the subject. I never realized that I was using my picking arm to put the counter pressure to help my fretting hand. Something that just evolved along the way that really does help to keep it sounding smooth.

[@alainnoel5048]

Merci pour cette vidéo vocal et de partager vos connaissances, dommage pour moi que je ne comprend pas votre langue mais j'aime beaucoup votre style de musique avec vos différentes guitare de fabrication artisanale très belle et différentes les unes des autres ça donne envie de vous avoir comme professeur ! Merci encore.

[@drjcwardjr]

Love the grip it and rip it thumb wrap! So much easier than first finger barre press…pinky finger so available for licks. 😎👍

[@davetaylor4741]

Love watching you play. Would love to be half as good. Never will be but I can enjoy your playing more knowing how difficult it is.

[@WoodyPhillips]

MORE Justin Johnson wisdom! Awesome! Thanks so much.

[@kenwood9382]

Very helpful, thank you!

[@TJ-cg8mq]

..I know folks who prefer to place the thumb directly behind the middle fingers as apposed to behind the index finger on the neck - but...if you can play 'em even without the thumb ..i guess it's ultimately about what feels comfortable, - Thanks for the video !!

[@audiophileman7047]

Thank you very much, Justin! This barre chords lesson is excellent and much appreciated! 👍👍👍👍👍

[@Boyd1875]

Thank you Justin. Positioning of the index finger helped me tremendously. Always had a problem because I couldn’t get my finger flat down on the fret.

[@edwardsn3670]

you're teaching like my friend teaching me how to properly play guitar ❤️👍

[@madnessbydesignVria]

Barre chords have been my nemesis for too long. This was very helpful - Thank you! :)

[@imnotthatguy4765]

This is the best Barre Chord lesson I have ever seen. Really insightful. You rock man!

[@Bjornlundstrom]

Awesome lesson, awesome video Justin & Nikki🔥👊👍💯

[@GUITARKITWORLD]

I'd love to be tutored by you JJ, everything you teach is so valuable. More power to you man!

[@mnumumnumu2646]

If you're able, you should join his patreon. It's well worth it. Next best thing to being tutored in person. Bests!

[@GUITARKITWORLD]

@@mnumumnumu2646 Thanks for the recommendation

[@mnumumnumu2646]

@@GUITARKITWORLD You're very welcome. Bests to y'all, M.M.

[@stevelewis8919]

What are the odds you have lessons for beginners somewhere?

[@Docsjeff]

Requires a LOT of thumb strength.Once you get them down,you can play pretty much any chord.Your index finger is NOT flat against the strings. This video is very helpful.

[@Gypsy-D]

Excellent lesson Justin!!! The only thing I think is that your final ultimate goal should be, "Being able to hit the bar with no thumb!" Rock on brother!) Remember structured practice gets ya there!

[@ronaldlaframboise9734]

You're a great guitar teacher, very good tricks thank you.

[@zunif]

When I started to play guitar, I learned on a cheap toy like guitar with very high action. After learning how to play on this guitar, I bought myself a Martin 000-15m. The jump was huge but playing felt so easy.

[@guitarifuldexter6366]

Thanks for this! Barre chords are all ways tough! 🎸🤘

[@НиколайМ-н3ф]

Not as much as Jazz chords )

[@guitarifuldexter6366]

@@НиколайМ-н3ф nah!

[@mnumumnumu2646]

Hey, I know what you mean, for me too.I've got a touch of arthritis and a lot of years. But it brings me a lot of delight. Bests to you, m.m.

[@jwf2125]

I appreciate your attention to detail, will try these tricks out.

[@richardprutz6458]

Thank you Brother- Love your Music, and your great lessons

[@JuliBratun]

Thank you for such a clear, concise list of tips and techniques.

[@dorfsteen]

I've missed you giving lessons and I hope you'll do more because I really learned a lot this is the Best bar chord lesson I've ever watched and I'm not kidding thank you again Justin

[@lafcat]

My guitar teachers never bothered to even tell us this! That was a nice thing to do!! Thank You! I’m subscribed!

[@roberthancock2563]

Great lesson!! Thanks so much,Justin! 👍👍

[@shazam6274]

I'm 71. I took guitar lessons at 14 at a "music academy" in Pasadena CA so I could learn to play just well enough to entertain myself. I have big hands and asked about using my thumb. My degreed teacher opened his desk drawer, took out a wooden ruler and said he would smack my thumb if it was ever visible. That, and the absolutely crap "special" "student" guitar (with a bent and twisted neck) is why I quit after a few months. People, if your guitar teacher is not like Justin in this video, get another one!

[@joaquinguerrero5057]

Thank you for teaching in such a friendly and thoughtful way.

[@keithherrington3410]

Amazing! Best video I’ve ever seen on barre chords. Nice one👍😄👍

[@Dave-gf3kd]

EXCELLENT! Well thought out and presented. Thank You!

[@vibesmom]

So helpful! Thank you, I knew I’ve been struggling in the wrong position and these tips give me active ways to check myself.

[@Julio_Gomes]

That Merle Travis tip is awesome, I'll try that out for sure.

[@stevemurray2737]

Man walks into a Barre’.. Thank JJ! Keep’m coming!

[@ranman58635]

Cool deal! I have high tension on my classical. The G used to sound so flat. I noticed I can't play as long . Getting easier. Poor guitar needs a brace now for sagging bridge.

[@PR-BEACHBOY]

Interesting! I’ve never heard of the “Counter-Pressure” technique. Thanks!

[@pavelmullo2326]

Great hints! I would put one more thing, take your guitar to the service regularly, eg. in my region season moisture changes in the air affect so much that it is just very difficult to play bar chords from 6th fret and up through the whole year with the same neck setting. Quality of the instrument also matters a lot, just know some people who expect impossible features from 100eur or less priced guitars.

[@harrynutz4550]

Great advice, I needed it, thank you

[@jaburchfield7194]

Thanks man!! I love your channel!! Great music and instruction!

[@stevefrickey9409]

Another fine lesson from the Master, thank you Justin!. Not only were you born to play the guitar (and many other instruments too!) but you were also born to teach. You inform with such clarity and make everything so easy to understand... even if it will take a while to learn to play. On another note, I have just purchased from you, and received, your entire CD recordings and all 6 tutorial DVD'S and they are all AWESOME!!. I will be purchasing a number of your online guitar tabs from your site and I see that they include you performing the piece too. Would it be possible if they could also include a backing track, of all parts minus the lead, so we can have a 'ready made band' to jam with once we have got to grips with learning to play the tune?. Thanks for all your output... You bring so much joy to so many people. Best wishes from Steve in England.

[@ladyshaelle]

Thank you! I love your tips/tricks! Usefull and clear! You're awesome! Greetings from Argentina 🎶🎸🌎

[@clintoppelt1071]

I just watched your video on BARRE chord tips, very helpful, looking forward to seeing more.

[@skullknightyt]

Starting out on guitar your videos are just in time.