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!

[@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.👍

[@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.

[@YogiMoore]

Finally someone who can teach And make it easy to understand. I’ve been praying for someone like you. Thank you sir. I’m 70 yrs young and wanting to learn. I’m tired of playing GCDEF……. lol.

[@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!

[@dlux703]

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

[@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.

[@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! 👍👍👍

[@OldBlueWind]

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

[@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 .

[@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.

[@AmandaSnoise]

For anyone else having an incredibly hard time on acoustic, check your action. I was struggling for ages with my guitar but a simple adjustment made it work. And since I was practicing so long on really high strings, my fingers were strong enough that I could suddenly do it!

[@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!!

[@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.

[@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 🤘

[@levibaker_music]

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.

[@markbundy1694]

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

[@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

[@le_th_]

I'm bookmarking this. Creating an entirely new file for learning guitar 101 "pro tips" because you are covering things that others who've created and sold their teaching products fail to cover. I won't name names but I'm guessing you are familiar with his many hundreds of videos on famous artists. Thank you so much for this! Still loving your Biscuit House album and those rare days when you do live streams!

[@davidwillis9270]

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

[@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.

[@pameladecicco6509]

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

[@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

[@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.

[@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!

[@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!

[@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.

[@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.

[@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.

[@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

[@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!

[@kowal767]

Justin, very good trick with pushing back with elbow.

[@rob8482]

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

[@clydelourensz4077]

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

[@Krizrax]

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

[@marysefonta8371]

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

[@glarrymoreme]

That was very helpful. Thank you, love calm tuition

[@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 .

[@mnumumnumu2646]

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

[@WoodyPhillips]

MORE Justin Johnson wisdom! Awesome! Thanks so much.

[@witewulf-f6f]

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

[@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!!

[@thehillbillyhoarder4996]

Thank you so much for taking the time to make and post this great video. God bless

[@johnrudy9404]

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

[@ronaldlaframboise9734]

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

[@jwf2125]

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

[@Saltwater-Beagles]

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

[@georgemcclurkin4378]

Never stop playing Justin

[@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!

[@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

[@gock66]

Thanks Justin, great advice. Love your videos!

[@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.

[@audiophileman7047]

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

[@rogerm8677]

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

[@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.

[@llah-official]

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

[@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.

[@MatthewJacobDaniel]

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

[@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

[@coleyoung373]

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

[@markalan1501]

I appreciate all your videos. You are a great player.

[@drjcwardjr]

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

[@richardprutz6458]

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

[@madnessbydesignVria]

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

[@placidobernal5178]

Thanks I have had a hard time till now. Great teacher

[@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!

[@JuliBratun]

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

[@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.

[@josemanuelguerrerochia3829]

Gracias Justin desde España. Me gusta tu forma de enseñar. Thanks.

[@dunbarcustomsound]

Dude! So grateful for these tips.

[@morsinimicis3930]

This dude is so great. Thank you, Justin!

[@shaunyboy45]

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

[@Jimgoodwin846]

Thank you for this great video. I can’t do Barr chords. I appreciate the Barr chord tips some I’m familiar with (tilting the finger-your explanation was very helpful) others are new. Thanks again…from an 80 year old, beginner guitar player. More practicer than player 😅

[@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.

[@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.

[@kenwood9382]

Very helpful, thank you!

[@imnotthatguy4765]

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

[@JimShau]

Your bar cord lesson was awesome thank you

[@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?

[@keithherrington3410]

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

[@Dave-gf3kd]

EXCELLENT! Well thought out and presented. Thank You!

[@ElisabethKlaassen]

Thank you for this 🎸Justin and wish you a nice Wednesday Elisabeth.

[@PR-BEACHBOY]

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

[@joaquinguerrero5057]

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

[@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.

[@clintoppelt1071]

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

[@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

[@harrynutz4550]

Great advice, I needed it, thank you

[@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!

[@Diana.Lapower]

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

[@dwaynetempest3433]

Always the best !thanks Justin !

[@havennewbowtow8835]

Great tips sir and that Furch is awesome.

[@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.

[@garrettfergus331]

Great tips! Thank you for the lesson!!! I dig your videos!

[@roberthancock2563]

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