Never Tear Us Apart is one of the most iconic songs by the Australian rock band INXS, known for its emotional lyrics, haunting melody, and timeless appeal. Guitarists, pianists, and musicians of all levels often look for the chords to this song to perform it live, cover it in studio sessions, or simply play it for enjoyment. Understanding the chords, their progression, and how they fit into the structure of the song can help both beginners and experienced musicians recreate the song’s mood accurately. This topic will explore the chords used in Never Tear Us Apart, how they are played, and tips for performing the song effectively, making it accessible for anyone interested in learning this classic track.
Introduction to Never Tear Us Apart
Released in 1987 as part of INXS’s album Kick, Never Tear Us Apart quickly became a fan favorite due to its deep emotional resonance and memorable melody. Written by Andrew Farriss and Michael Hutchence, the song combines elements of rock, pop, and soft balladry, creating a unique sound that is both soulful and compelling. The song is typically played in a moderate tempo and features a mix of piano, guitar, bass, and drums, with Hutchence’s signature vocals driving the emotional intensity.
Song Structure
The song follows a traditional verse-chorus structure, with an instrumental bridge that enhances its emotional impact. Understanding the structure is important for anyone learning the chords, as it informs when to transition between chord changes and how to maintain the song’s rhythm and mood. The structure can be summarized as
- Intro
- Verse 1
- Chorus
- Verse 2
- Chorus
- Bridge
- Final Chorus/Outro
Basic Chords Used in Never Tear Us Apart
The song primarily uses standard major and minor chords that are accessible to most guitarists and pianists. The key in which the song is commonly played is E minor, which contributes to its haunting and melancholic tone. The basic chords include Em, G, D, C, and A, among others. These chords can be played in open positions on the guitar or in root positions on the piano.
Verse Chords
The verse of Never Tear Us Apart typically revolves around a simple progression that sets the emotional foundation of the song. A common chord progression for the verse is
- Em – G – D – A
On guitar, these chords are played with smooth transitions, focusing on maintaining a gentle rhythm to match the song’s introspective feel. Pianists often play these chords arpeggiated, allowing each note to ring clearly and evoke the emotional tension present in the lyrics.
Chorus Chords
The chorus introduces a slightly different chord progression to elevate the song’s emotional intensity. The chords used in the chorus commonly include
- C – G – Em – D
- C – G – D – Em
In the chorus, dynamics are crucial. Guitarists may strum more boldly or add subtle picking patterns, while pianists can increase the volume or play fuller chords to emphasize the crescendo of the lyrics. Proper timing ensures that the transitions between chords feel smooth and natural, enhancing the overall impact of the chorus.
Bridge and Instrumental Sections
The bridge of Never Tear Us Apart provides a moment of reflection and often features a modulation or shift in chord progression. Common chords for the bridge include
- Am – Bm – Em – G
This section may also incorporate inversions or added notes to enrich the harmonic texture. For example, guitarists can add suspended or seventh chords to create tension, while pianists may include passing notes or harmonics to maintain the song’s atmospheric quality. The instrumental section often mirrors the verse chords, giving performers an opportunity to emphasize expression through dynamics and tempo adjustments.
Tips for Playing the Chords
To effectively perform Never Tear Us Apart, musicians should consider several factors beyond simply learning the chords. Paying attention to dynamics, rhythm, and emotional expression is key to capturing the essence of the song.
Guitar Tips
- Practice smooth chord transitions to maintain the song’s flowing, melancholic feel.
- Use fingerpicking or light strumming in the verses to emphasize the emotional tone.
- Experiment with chord voicings and inversions to add depth and variation.
- Maintain consistent tempo, particularly during the chorus, to support vocal lines.
Piano Tips
- Play arpeggiated chords in the verses to highlight the lyrical sensitivity.
- In the chorus, play fuller chords with both hands to emphasize emotional peaks.
- Incorporate chord inversions and passing notes to create smooth transitions.
- Pay attention to dynamics, using crescendos and decrescendos to mirror the vocal delivery.
Advanced Chord Variations
For musicians seeking to add sophistication to their performance, advanced chord variations can enhance the song’s harmonic richness. Examples include
- Adding 7th or 9th chords to the verse for added tension (e.g., Em7 instead of Em)
- Using suspended chords in the chorus (e.g., Csus2 or Dsus4) to create a more open sound
- Experimenting with chord inversions to smooth transitions between sections
These variations allow performers to personalize their rendition while maintaining the integrity of the original song.
Learning the chords for Never Tear Us Apart provides a gateway to performing one of INXS’s most emotionally compelling songs. By understanding the verse, chorus, and bridge progressions, musicians can recreate the haunting and romantic atmosphere that defines the track. Paying attention to dynamics, rhythm, and expressive techniques is essential for capturing the song’s essence. Whether played on guitar or piano, mastering the chords allows performers to connect with the song on a deeper level, offering audiences a faithful and emotive rendition. Practicing these chords, exploring variations, and focusing on emotional delivery ensures that Never Tear Us Apart continues to resonate with musicians and listeners alike, making it a timeless piece in the world of music.