How to Play “I Want a New Drug” by Huey Lewis and the News
Step 1: Understand the Song
“I Want a New Drug” by Huey Lewis and the News is a classic rock song that was released in 1983. The song tells the story of someone seeking a new and exciting drug to experience. Before you can play the song, it’s important to understand its structure and the key elements of the melody and lyrics.
Step 2: Get the Right Instruments
To play “I Want a New Drug,” you’ll need a few essential instruments. The song is typically performed on guitar, bass, drums, and vocals. If you’re not familiar with all of these instruments, you can start by learning one or two and then add others as you become more comfortable.
Step 3: Learn the Chords
The song is in the key of A major. Here are the chords you’ll need to play through the song:
– Chorus: A, E, D, A
– Verse 1: E, A, D, E
– Pre-Chorus: A, D, E, A
– Chorus: A, E, D, A
– Verse 2: E, A, D, E
– Pre-Chorus: A, D, E, A
– Chorus: A, E, D, A
Practice these chords until you can play them smoothly and transition between them effortlessly.
Step 4: Learn the Rhythm
The rhythm of “I Want a New Drug” is upbeat and catchy. To get the rhythm down, you can use a metronome to keep a steady tempo. Pay attention to the accents and syncopation in the song, as these are what make it so fun to play.
Step 5: Practice the Melody
The melody in “I Want a New Drug” is relatively simple, but it’s important to practice it until you can play it with confidence. Listen to the original recording to get a sense of the tone and phrasing. Once you’re comfortable with the melody, try to incorporate it into your playing.
Step 6: Sing the Lyrics
Vocals are a crucial part of the song, so don’t underestimate the importance of singing the lyrics. Practice your vocal parts until you can sing them clearly and with the right tone. If you’re not confident in your singing abilities, consider practicing with a karaoke machine or a loop pedal to get the rhythm down.
Step 7: Play Along with the Original
Once you’ve mastered the chords, rhythm, melody, and vocals, it’s time to put it all together. Play along with the original recording of “I Want a New Drug” to see how well you’ve learned the song. Adjust your playing as needed to match the tempo and dynamics of the recording.
Step 8: Perform for an Audience
Finally, it’s time to show off your skills. Perform “I Want a New Drug” for friends, family, or at a local venue. Enjoy the process and remember that practice makes perfect. Keep working on your skills, and you’ll soon be a pro at playing this classic rock hit.
