"Jiyein Kyun" on Guitar: A Complete Guide to Chords and Strumming

Music has a way of touching the soul, and few songs do this as effectively as "Jiyein Kyun" from the Bollywood movie Dum Maaro Dum.

Composed by Pritam and beautifully sung by Papon, this melancholic track resonates with many listeners due to its heart-touching lyrics and simple yet evocative melody.

If you're a guitar enthusiast looking to expand your repertoire with Bollywood songs, "Jiyein Kyun" is a perfect choice.

The song’s structure is relatively simple, making it an excellent pick for beginners while still being satisfying for more advanced players.

This blog will walk you through everything you need to know to play "Jiyein Kyun" on the guitar, from the chords to the strumming pattern and tips for perfecting your technique.

Understanding the Basics

Before diving into the chords, it's important to ensure that your guitar is tuned correctly.

The standard tuning for a guitar (E A D G B E) is used in this song. For those unfamiliar with standard tuning, it refers to the pitch each string is tuned to, starting from the thickest string (E) to the thinnest string (E).

Once your guitar is tuned, you're ready to learn the chords.

Guitar Chords for "Jiyein Kyun"

"Jiyein Kyun" uses a combination of basic chords that are easy to learn but create a rich, emotional sound when played together. Below are the chords you'll need to know:

C Major (C): Place your ring finger on the 3rd fret of the A string, middle finger on the 2nd fret of the D string, and index finger on the 1st fret of the B string.

G Major (G): Place your middle finger on the 3rd fret of the low E string, index finger on the 2nd fret of the A string, and ring finger on the 3rd fret of the high E string.

A Minor (Am): Place your index finger on the 1st fret of the B string, middle finger on the 2nd fret of the D string, and ring finger on the 2nd fret of the G string.

F Major (F): This can be a bit tricky for beginners. Place your index finger across all the strings on the 1st fret (barre chord), middle finger on the 2nd fret of the G string, ring finger on the 3rd fret of the A string, and pinky on the 3rd fret of the D string.

These chords form the backbone of the song and are used throughout the verses and the chorus.

Chord Progression for "Jiyein Kyun"

The chord progression for "Jiyein Kyun" is straightforward, making it easier for beginners to memorize and play along. Here’s how the chords are laid out in the song:

Verse Progression:

• C Major
• G Major
• A Minor
• F Major

Chorus Progression:

• C Major
• G Major
• A Minor
• F Major

This repetition of chords creates a seamless flow in the song, allowing you to focus on your strumming and transitions.

Strumming Pattern for "Jiyein Kyun"

The strumming pattern is one of the most crucial aspects of playing "Jiyein Kyun" effectively.

The song has a relaxed and smooth rhythm, which can be captured with a down-up-down-up (D U D U) strumming pattern. Here’s how to approach it:

1. Downstroke (D): Start with a downstroke, strumming all the strings from top to bottom.
2. Upstroke (U): Follow it with an upstroke, strumming the strings from bottom to top.
3. Downstroke (D): Repeat the downstroke, ensuring you maintain a consistent rhythm.
4. Upstroke (U): Complete the pattern with another upstroke.

Keep the strumming light and smooth to match the song's emotional tone. Practice slowly at first to get the timing right, then gradually increase your speed as you become more comfortable.

Tips for Perfecting "Jiyein Kyun" on Guitar

Learning any song on the guitar takes practice, and "Jiyein Kyun" is no different. Here are some tips to help you perfect this song:

• Focus on Transitions: The transitions between chords, especially from G Major to A Minor and F Major, can be challenging. Practice switching between these chords until you can do it smoothly.
• Use a Metronome: A metronome can help you keep a consistent tempo, which is essential for maintaining the song's rhythm. Start slow and gradually increase the tempo as you gain confidence.
• Sing Along: If you're comfortable, try singing along as you play. This can help you better understand the song’s structure and improve your timing.
• Listen to the Original Track: Frequently listening to "Jiyein Kyun" will help you internalize the song's rhythm and emotion, making it easier to replicate on the guitar.

Advanced Techniques for Experienced Guitarists

If you’re an intermediate or advanced guitarist, consider adding some embellishments to your playing to make it more interesting:

• Arpeggios: Instead of strumming all the strings at once, try picking individual strings in the chord to create a more intricate sound.
• Hammer-Ons and Pull-Offs: These techniques can add a dynamic touch to your playing, especially during the transition between chords.
• Palm Muting: This technique involves resting the side of your strumming hand lightly on the strings near the bridge to create a muted, percussive sound.

Conclusion

Playing "Jiyein Kyun" on the guitar is a fulfilling experience, especially when you capture the song's emotional depth through your strumming and chord transitions.

Whether you’re a beginner looking for an easy song to start with or an experienced guitarist wanting to expand your Bollywood repertoire, this song is a perfect choice.

Remember, the key to mastering "Jiyein Kyun" is consistent practice and attention to detail.

With the chords and strumming pattern under your belt, you’ll be able to play this soulful track with confidence and heart.

So, pick up your guitar, start practicing, and let the music of "Jiyein Kyun" flow through your fingers!

Also Read: Everything You Need to Know About Guitar Amplifiers: Types, Features, and Tips