Taking Care of Business: Chords and More
"Taking Care of Business" by Bachman-Turner Overdrive (BTO) is a classic rock anthem known for its powerful riff and driving rhythm. While the song's main focus is its memorable guitar part, understanding the chord progression is key to mastering it. Let's dive into the chords, variations, and some tips for playing this iconic track.
The Main Chord Progression:
The core of "Taking Care of Business" is surprisingly simple, relying on a powerful combination of just four chords:
- G major: This is the foundation of the song, providing a strong, driving feel.
- C major: This chord provides a contrasting feel to the G major, adding a sense of movement and resolution.
- D major: A dominant chord that creates tension and leads back nicely to the G major.
- G major (again): The return to G major brings a sense of completion and reinforces the song's powerful energy.
The progression is typically: G - C - D - G This four-chord sequence is repeated throughout much of the song, with variations added to create interest.
How to Play the Chords:
The exact voicing of these chords can vary depending on your instrument and personal preference. However, here are some common and effective voicings:
- G major: x57575 (open G), 355433 (G power chord)
- C major: x35553 (open C), 555553 (C power chord)
- D major: xx0232 (open D), 577xxx (D power chord)
Power chords (using only the root and fifth) offer a powerful, driving sound that suits the song's style. Experiment with different voicings to find what works best for you.
Variations and Additions:
While the basic progression is simple, BTO adds subtleties throughout the song. Listen carefully to the original recording to hear:
- Slight rhythmic variations: The chords aren't always played straight; sometimes they're slightly syncopated or held for longer durations.
- Guitar fills and solos: The guitar fills and solo sections are essential to the song's character, often adding passing chords and chromatic approaches.
- Bassline: The bassline is crucial for anchoring the rhythm section and provides a solid foundation for the chords.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ):
H2: What key is Taking Care of Business in?
"Taking Care of Business" is primarily in the key of G major. This means that G major is the tonic (home) chord.
H2: Are there any barre chords in Taking Care of Business?
While the song primarily uses open chords and power chords, experienced players might incorporate barre chords for variations or different voicings, although this is not strictly necessary.
H2: What is the strumming pattern for Taking Care of Business?
The strumming pattern isn't rigidly defined, but a down-down-up-down pattern is a good starting point. Experiment with different strumming patterns to find what best suits your style. Again, paying close attention to the original recording is invaluable.
H2: How can I learn the guitar solo in Taking Care of Business?
Learning the solo requires dedicated practice and careful listening. Many online resources provide tablature (tab) and video lessons to help you master it. Breaking down the solo into smaller sections is a helpful strategy.
H2: Can I play Taking Care of Business on a different instrument?
Absolutely! The chord progression is easily adaptable to piano, keyboard, ukulele, or almost any other instrument capable of playing chords.
Mastering "Taking Care of Business" involves not only learning the chords but also understanding the song's rhythm, dynamics, and feel. Practice regularly, listen to the original recording repeatedly, and enjoy the process of bringing this classic rock anthem to life!
