Hey guys! Ever heard Bridgit Mendler's catchy tune "Hurricane" and thought, "I gotta learn that on the ukulele"? Well, you're in the right place! This guide will break down everything you need to know to strum along with Bridgit and nail that ukulele version of Hurricane. We're talking chords, strumming patterns, and even some tips to make it sound just right. So grab your uke, and let's dive in!

Getting Started with "Hurricane" on Ukulele

Before we start, it's worth noting why Bridgit Mendler's "Hurricane" translates so well to the ukulele. The song's bright, upbeat tempo and relatively simple chord progression make it super accessible for ukulele players of all levels. Whether you're a seasoned pro or just starting, you'll find this song fun and rewarding to learn.

First things first, you'll want to tune your ukulele. Standard ukulele tuning is GCEA (G, C, E, A), from the string closest to your head to the string closest to your feet. There are plenty of free ukulele tuners online or as apps for your phone. Make sure your uke is properly tuned; otherwise, nothing will sound quite right. Trust me, a well-tuned ukulele is half the battle!

Next, let's talk about the chords you'll need. "Hurricane" primarily uses a few basic chords, which makes it relatively easy to pick up. The most common chords you'll encounter are C, G, Am, and F. These are foundational chords for ukulele, so if you don't know them already, now's a great time to learn! There are tons of resources online that show you how to finger these chords. A quick search on YouTube will give you visual guides that make it even easier. Practice transitioning between these chords smoothly. The smoother your transitions, the better the song will sound. Start slowly, and gradually increase your speed as you get more comfortable.

Another essential element is the strumming pattern. While there are many ways to strum "Hurricane," a simple and effective pattern is down-down-up-down-up. This pattern gives the song a nice, rhythmic feel. However, don't be afraid to experiment with other strumming patterns once you get the hang of the basic one. You can add variations to make it more interesting. For example, try incorporating some muted strums or chucks to give it a bit more percussive sound. Listen to the original song closely to get a feel for the rhythm and try to mimic that on your ukulele. Remember, practice makes perfect, so keep strumming until it becomes second nature!

Finally, pay attention to the song's structure. "Hurricane" typically follows a verse-chorus structure, with a bridge section that adds some variety. Understanding the song's structure will help you keep your place and play along more confidently. Listen to the song and make notes on when each section begins and ends. This will also help you anticipate chord changes and make your performance smoother. Don't be afraid to mark up your chord charts with notes about the song's structure – it can be a lifesaver when you're first learning the song.

Breaking Down the Chords for "Hurricane"

Alright, let's get into the nitty-gritty of the chords. As mentioned earlier, the primary chords you'll need for Bridgit Mendler's "Hurricane" are C, G, Am, and F. Let's break each of these down:

• C Chord: To play a C chord on the ukulele, simply place your ring finger on the third fret of the A string (the bottom string). That's it! This is one of the easiest chords to learn and a great starting point for beginners.
• G Chord: The G chord is a bit trickier but still manageable. Place your index finger on the second fret of the C string, your middle finger on the third fret of the E string, and your ring finger on the second fret of the A string. Make sure your fingers are arched so that they don't mute any of the strings. Practice this chord until it feels natural.
• Am Chord: The Am (A minor) chord is another relatively easy one. Place your middle finger on the second fret of the G string. That's all there is to it! This chord adds a touch of melancholy to the song, contrasting nicely with the brighter C and G chords.
• F Chord: The F chord can be a bit challenging for beginners, but with practice, you'll get it. Place your index finger on the first fret of the E string and your middle finger on the second fret of the G string. Make sure you're pressing down firmly enough to get a clear sound. Some people find this chord difficult to finger cleanly at first, so don't get discouraged if it takes a bit of practice.

Now, let's talk about how these chords fit together in the song. "Hurricane" typically starts with a C chord, then moves to G, Am, and F. This progression repeats throughout the verses and choruses. Pay attention to the transitions between these chords. Smooth transitions are key to making the song sound polished. Practice switching between the chords slowly at first, focusing on accuracy. Once you're comfortable, gradually increase your speed.

Also, be aware that there might be slight variations in the chord progression depending on the specific version you're playing. Some arrangements might include additional chords or variations on the basic chords. If you're having trouble figuring out a particular part of the song, try searching for ukulele chord charts specifically for "Hurricane." There are many great resources online that can provide accurate and easy-to-read chord charts.

Mastering the Strumming Pattern

The strumming pattern is the heartbeat of any song, and Bridgit Mendler's "Hurricane" is no exception. As mentioned earlier, a simple and effective strumming pattern for this song is down-down-up-down-up. Let's break this down:

• Down Strum: A down strum is exactly what it sounds like – you strum all the strings from top to bottom (from the G string to the A string).
• Up Strum: An up strum is the opposite – you strum all the strings from bottom to top (from the A string to the G string).

So, the down-down-up-down-up pattern means you strum down twice, then up, then down again, and finally up again. This pattern creates a lively, upbeat rhythm that fits the song perfectly. Practice this pattern slowly at first, focusing on keeping a steady beat. Use a metronome to help you stay in time. Once you're comfortable with the pattern, gradually increase your speed.

But don't feel limited to just this one strumming pattern. There are many other ways to strum "Hurricane" that can add variety and interest to your performance. For example, you can try incorporating some muted strums or chucks. A muted strum is when you lightly touch the strings with your strumming hand to create a percussive sound without producing a clear note. A chuck is a similar technique where you dampen the strings with your fretting hand while strumming.

Another variation you can try is adding some syncopation to your strumming pattern. Syncopation is when you emphasize the off-beats, which can give the song a more complex and interesting feel. Experiment with different strumming patterns and see what sounds best to you. The key is to find a pattern that feels comfortable and allows you to express the song's energy.

Also, pay attention to the dynamics of the song. Dynamics refer to the volume and intensity of your playing. In "Hurricane," there are likely to be sections where the music is softer and more subdued, and sections where it's louder and more energetic. Use your strumming to reflect these changes in dynamics. For example, you might strum more softly during the verses and more aggressively during the choruses.

Tips and Tricks for Playing "Hurricane" on Ukulele

Okay, now that we've covered the chords and strumming, let's dive into some tips and tricks that will help you nail Bridgit Mendler's "Hurricane" on the ukulele:

• Practice Regularly: This might seem obvious, but it's worth emphasizing. The more you practice, the better you'll get. Try to set aside some time each day to practice your ukulele. Even just 15-20 minutes of practice can make a big difference over time.
• Use a Metronome: A metronome is a tool that helps you keep time. It produces a steady beat that you can play along with. Using a metronome is a great way to improve your rhythm and timing. There are many free metronome apps available for your phone or tablet.
• Record Yourself: Recording yourself playing can be a great way to identify areas where you need to improve. Listen back to your recordings and pay attention to your timing, chord transitions, and strumming patterns.
• Play Along with the Song: One of the best ways to learn a song is to play along with the original recording. This will help you get a feel for the song's rhythm, dynamics, and overall vibe. Plus, it's just plain fun!
• Learn from Others: There are tons of ukulele tutorials and lessons available online. Watch videos of other people playing "Hurricane" on the ukulele and see if you can pick up any tips or tricks. You can also consider taking ukulele lessons from a qualified instructor.
• Don't Be Afraid to Experiment: Don't be afraid to try new things and experiment with different techniques. The more you experiment, the more you'll learn and the better you'll become at playing the ukulele.

Final Thoughts

Learning to play Bridgit Mendler's "Hurricane" on the ukulele is a fun and rewarding experience. With a little practice and dedication, you'll be strumming along like a pro in no time. Remember to focus on the chords, strumming pattern, and song structure. And don't forget to have fun! The ukulele is a wonderful instrument that can bring joy to your life. So grab your uke, start strumming, and let the music take you away!

So there you have it, guys! Everything you need to know to play "Hurricane" by Bridgit Mendler on your ukulele. Happy strumming!