Easy 'Blank Space' Cover: Taylor Swift For Beginners

Hey guys! Ever wanted to play one of Taylor Swift's catchiest hits with your band but felt a bit intimidated? Well, fret no more! "Blank Space" is an awesome choice, and we're here to break down how to create an easy and fun cover that will have everyone singing along. This guide is designed for beginner to intermediate musicians, ensuring that you can put your spin on this pop masterpiece without getting lost in complex arrangements.

Getting Started with Your "Blank Space" Cover

So, where do we begin? First things first, let's talk about understanding the song structure. "Blank Space" follows a pretty standard verse-chorus structure, which makes it relatively straightforward to learn and adapt. The song kicks off with an instantly recognizable intro, leading into the verses where Taylor Swift's clever lyrics shine. Then comes the chorus – the heart of the song, full of energy and hooks. After a couple of rounds of verse and chorus, there's a bridge that offers a change in pace before diving back into the chorus for a powerful finish.

To really nail your cover, you'll want to listen to the original track a bunch of times. Pay close attention to the different instrumental layers – the rhythm, the lead melodies, and any unique sonic textures. This will help you identify the key elements you need to replicate or reimagine in your own arrangement. Think about what makes the song so appealing – is it the driving beat, the sing-along chorus, or the playful lyrics? Focus on highlighting those elements in your cover.

Now, let's think about your band's strengths. Are you a group that loves to rock out with heavy guitars, or do you prefer a more acoustic and intimate sound? Tailoring your arrangement to suit your band's style is crucial for creating a cover that feels authentic and enjoyable to play. If you have a killer lead guitarist, maybe you can add a guitar solo during the bridge. If you have a vocalist with a soulful voice, you might want to slow down the tempo and give the song a more emotional vibe. Don't be afraid to experiment and get creative – the goal is to make the song your own while still honoring the original.

Simplifying the Chords and Melody

Okay, let's dive into the nitty-gritty of simplifying the chords and melody of "Blank Space". The original song is in the key of F major, but don't let that scare you! We can easily transpose it to a key that's more comfortable for your vocalist or easier to play on your instruments. For example, you could shift it down to C major or up to G major – both are common keys that most musicians are familiar with.

When it comes to the chords, "Blank Space" primarily uses a handful of basic chords that are perfect for beginner guitarists and pianists. You'll be working with chords like F, C, G, and Am. If you're not comfortable with barre chords, you can always use simplified versions or capo the guitar to make the chords easier to finger. The key is to find chord voicings that sound good and are comfortable for you to play.

For the melody, focus on capturing the essence of Taylor Swift's vocal performance. You don't need to hit every single note perfectly, but try to stay true to the overall shape and rhythm of the melody. If you're having trouble with certain vocal runs or high notes, feel free to simplify them or change them to fit your vocal range. Remember, the goal is to create a cover that you can sing confidently and comfortably.

If you're playing the melody on an instrument like a guitar or keyboard, try to find a simple and memorable way to play it. You could use single-note lines, arpeggiated chords, or even a combination of both. Experiment with different sounds and textures to find something that complements the vocals and adds your own unique touch to the song.

Arranging for Your Band: Instruments and Vocals

Now comes the fun part: arranging "Blank Space" for your band! This is where you get to decide which instruments will play which parts and how the vocals will be handled. Let's start with the rhythm section. The drums should provide a solid and driving beat, keeping the energy up throughout the song. A simple four-on-the-floor pattern with some occasional fills will work perfectly. The bass guitar should lock in with the drums, providing a strong and supportive foundation for the rest of the band. You can play the root notes of the chords or create a more melodic bassline that adds some extra interest.

For the harmonic instruments, such as guitar and keyboard, you have a lot of flexibility. You could have one instrument play the chords while the other plays the melody, or you could split the chords between the two instruments to create a fuller sound. If you have a lead guitarist, you can add some fills and embellishments during the verses and a solo during the bridge. If you have a keyboard player, you can experiment with different sounds and textures, such as piano, synth, or strings, to add depth and richness to the arrangement.

When it comes to vocals, you can either have a single lead vocalist or multiple singers. If you have a single lead vocalist, they should focus on delivering the main melody with energy and emotion. If you have multiple singers, you can add harmonies to the chorus or have different singers take the lead on different verses. You can also add backing vocals to create a fuller and more dynamic vocal sound. Don't be afraid to experiment with different vocal arrangements to find something that sounds great and showcases your singers' talents.

Adding Your Unique Style to the Cover

Alright, guys, this is where you really get to shine! Adding your own unique style to the "Blank Space" cover is what will make it stand out and truly make it your own. Think about what makes your band special and how you can incorporate those elements into the arrangement. Do you have a signature sound, a particular genre that you excel in, or any unique instrumental techniques that you can showcase?

One way to add your style is to change the tempo or time signature of the song. For example, you could slow it down and turn it into a ballad, or speed it up and turn it into a punk rock anthem. You could also change the time signature from 4/4 to 6/8 to give it a more waltz-like feel. These kinds of changes can completely transform the song and give it a fresh new vibe.

Another way to add your style is to incorporate different musical genres into the arrangement. For example, you could add a reggae-style groove to the verses, a country-style guitar solo to the bridge, or a funk-style bassline to the chorus. Blending different genres together can create a unique and unexpected sound that will surprise and delight your audience.

You can also experiment with different instrumental sounds and textures to add your own personal touch to the cover. Try using different guitar effects, keyboard sounds, or drum samples to create a unique sonic landscape. You could also add instruments that aren't typically used in pop music, such as a saxophone, a banjo, or a ukulele, to give the song a distinctive flavor.

Practice, Performance, and Having Fun!

Okay, you've got your arrangement down, and you're ready to rock. Now comes the most important part: practice, practice, practice! The more you rehearse, the more comfortable and confident you'll be playing the song. Start by practicing individually, making sure that you know your own part inside and out. Then, start practicing as a band, working on your timing, dynamics, and overall cohesiveness.

When you're ready to perform, remember to have fun! The most important thing is to enjoy yourself and let your passion for the music shine through. Don't worry about making mistakes – everyone makes them. Just keep playing and try to stay in the moment. If you're having fun, your audience will have fun too.

Before you hit the stage, be sure to warm up your voice and instruments. This will help you avoid injuries and ensure that you're performing at your best. Do some vocal exercises, stretch your fingers, and get your blood flowing. A little bit of preparation can go a long way in improving your performance.

Finally, remember to connect with your audience. Make eye contact, smile, and engage with them. Tell them a little bit about the song or why you chose to cover it. The more you connect with your audience, the more they'll connect with you and your music.

So there you have it! Creating an easy "Blank Space" cover is totally achievable with a bit of practice and creativity. Have fun with it, and don't be afraid to make it your own. Rock on!