[johnnygeetar]

Ok, I got a electric guitar for my 21st bday and I really want to learn on my own. I've played my dads acoustic for a week or 2 b4 and I picked up a few things--chromatic scale, Am pent, and a g major scale and a couple of chords. But now I want to start learning and I dont know where to begin. I think to start with chord changes but then I dont know chords in a scale... should i just pick it up and bang out chords one after the other till im good at changing or just learn a load of scales? Shredding just seems so far away right now TY if anyone can get my career started!

[allthumbs]

Start with these mini lessons then move on to Kirks beginner lessons. You need to visit some of the theory lesson forums too.
Brand new to playing the guitar?...read this first.

[Aunt Doty]

You'll be more likely to stick with it if you practice chords and can start playing some easy songs. Look at this site, there are lots of songs with chord notations, pick out one you like and learn those chords. guitar resources - chordie - guitar chords and guitar tabs

+1 to AT's suggestions. Good luck with your endeavor!

[johnnygeetar]

Very good suggestions TY. Aunt Doty, I tottally agree- when your sounding good you have all the motivation in the world to play! Thanks for the help, im sure I will be lurking this site for months (years?) to come! cheerz

[LeeB]

Hey Johnny ..... sounds like you are motivated to stick with it which is huge for beginners. and at age 21 just think where you will be by 25 if you practice consistently.
I always believe learning the open chords G, C & D (and changing between them) are good ones to start with given that many songs are in the key of G.