Praise to the Lord new version

I finally got it right, after two previous versions and months of pondering. This version is not as easy as the easy version, nor as hard as the hard one, but it’s better than either, especially the finale, which is completely new.

You won’t need many instructions for this one.

Play the first four measures from a C chord hand position. This positions your hand perfectly for the following GaddD chord, but you may substitute a full-barre GIII if it’s easier for you. I often do.

The next line is nearly identical to the first, except for the C chord in the second measure and the GIII chord in the last measure of the line. Again, if it’s easier for you, you can substitute GaddD. I like to use one of these chords in the first line, and the other in the second line, for a slight difference in the harmonies.

The CaddG chord in the next measure is necessary to carry the melody. Do not substitute a normal C chord! If the CaddG chord is too hard for you, just play the G note of the chord. Do the tremolo in the next measure with the little finger. Make the tremolo strong.

In the next-to-last measure of the third line, over the word “organ”, there’s a Roman numeral III. This indicates a change of the left hand to “Third Position” (also called “third fret”). Use your index finger to fret the G note in the third space, then slide it back to the first space and do the pull-off, leaving your hand once again positioned for the following GaddD chord. This makes an otherwise difficult transition into an easy one. Similarly, in the last line, the Roman numeral II means you play the G note on the bass string with your middle finger, and the hammer-on in the same measure with your index finger.

Play the last four measures normally. Play as many verses as you like. Then, last time around, substitute the last line for these four measures. The last line is intended to be played through as a single, long phrase, up until the final three chords. Note that the fifth and sixth measures of the line are exactly the same as the first and second measures.

This long riff ends with a double hammer-on. If you use the ring finger to hammer-on the D note on the 2nd string, it puts you in a perfect position to play the following GaddD chord. You won't need to move your fingers for the final note of the riff, as it's an open E. The riff does not need to be especially fast to be effective. It does need to be played at a steady, unvarying rhythm. Then, slow down a bit for the last three chords. Play them as cleanly as possible, without buzzing or slurring. Your audience will love it.