How to Play “Brass Monkey” on Piano
Are you a fan of The Boomtown Rats’ classic rock song “Brass Monkey”? Do you want to learn how to play this iconic tune on the piano? Look no further! In this article, we will guide you through the process of playing “Brass Monkey” on the piano, from understanding the song’s structure to mastering the chords and melody.
Understanding the Song Structure
“Brass Monkey” is a catchy rock song with a straightforward structure. The song consists of a verse, a pre-chorus, a chorus, and a bridge. The verse and pre-chorus are typically slower and more introspective, while the chorus and bridge are faster and more upbeat. Understanding this structure will help you get a grasp on the song’s rhythm and flow.
Learning the Chords
The first step in playing “Brass Monkey” on the piano is to learn the chords. The song is primarily in the key of E minor, and the main chords used are E minor, A major, and B7. Here’s a breakdown of the chords and their corresponding fingerings:
– E minor: E (white), G (white), B (black)
– A major: A (white), C (black), E (white)
– B7: B (white), D (black), F (white), A (white)
To play the chords, you can use your left hand to press the root note (E, A, or B) and your right hand to play the third and fifth notes (G, C, E, D, F, A). Practice these chords until you feel comfortable playing them in time with the song’s rhythm.
Playing the Melody
The melody of “Brass Monkey” is quite simple and can be played with both hands. Here’s a step-by-step guide to playing the melody:
1. Start with the opening chord progression (E minor, A major, B7) by playing the root note with your left hand and the third and fifth notes with your right hand.
2. Move to the pre-chorus by playing the melody notes on the white keys (E, G, A, B, C, D).
3. Enter the chorus by playing the melody notes on the black keys (F, A, C, E, G).
4. Play the bridge by repeating the pre-chorus melody.
Remember to keep the rhythm steady and try to match the tempo of the original song.
Practicing and Improving
Once you’ve learned the chords and melody, it’s time to practice. Start by playing the song slowly, focusing on getting the rhythm and chords right. As you become more comfortable, gradually increase the tempo. You can also experiment with adding your own variations to the melody or using different chord progressions.
Conclusion
Playing “Brass Monkey” on the piano can be a fun and rewarding experience. By understanding the song’s structure, learning the chords, and practicing the melody, you’ll be able to perform this classic rock tune with confidence. So grab your piano, put on your headphones, and start playing “Brass Monkey” today!
