Break of Day – An Easy Fingerstyle Song

Lately, I have had several requests for some easy solo guitar arrangements. Sometimes it’s nice to learn something that sounds nice and doesn’t take a long time to master. Well… “I’m here to help”. I wrote this little ditty for a bit of fun!

I would like to present a couple of hints to make this song a little bit easier to play and sound sweeter. In the “A Section” [lines 1,2,and 4], barre your index finger across strings 1-3 on the 7th fret. Be sure that the 4th string can ring freely. Keep the barre down to let strings ring as you play. Although it is not notated [I wanted it easy to read], it gives the song a chime type effect. You can reach the needed frets 8,9, and 10 with your middle, ring, and pinky fingers. This section is just a little ditty based off a “D” chord.

Line 3 is the “B Section” of the song. We are going to play with a “G”chord. Place your ring finger on the 6th string 3rd fret and leave it there [let it ring each time you pluck it] for the complete line. String 2, fret 3 should be played with your pinky and leave it there [let it ring each time you pluck it] for the complete line. You are basically fingering a Gmaj7 chord (no 3rd) when your index finger is on the 2nd fret, and a G major 6th chord when the 1st string is ringing open.

I liked the harmony at the end of “A Section” more on the 3rd and 2nd strings. Be sure to slide your index finger down the 3rd string and onto the 2nd fret. You can play the 2nd string 3rd fret with your ring or middle finger (I use my ring).

Fingerpicking hand: The thumb plays only the bass strings (4-6). Use your other fingers [index, middle, ring] to play strings 1,2,and 3. Which ones? Use what you want [index, middle, ring] I wanted to make this as easy as possible.

Take a listen to the provided mp3 link (I used a little echo for ambience).

Also, if you would like a quicktime video of this song, email me and just ask!

Break of Day 1
Break of Day 2
Break of Day 3