Article
This modern folk tune features some classic chord progressions and catchy vocal melodies. Notice all the syncopation (off-beats) in the song – it gives everything a lift and keeps it driving forward despite the slow tempo. “Ho Hey”, made famous by The Lumineers, is now available in Yousician for Guitar, Ukulele, and Singing.
Ho Hey for Guitar
by: James Neilson, Music Education Designer for Guitar
In the basic melody exercise (level 2) you’ll play a simplified arrangement of the vocal melody, as well as some instrumental melodies. The Chorus is tricky, so start slow in practice mode, and learn one section at a time.
In the cowboy chords exercise (level 5) you’ll strum some familiar chords: C, F, Am, G. Look out for the fast changes between F and C – notice that the index and ring fingers are in the same spot for both chords, so you can leave them there when changing chords. This is a very common move in acoustic guitar playing, well worth mastering!
Ho Hey for Ukulele
by: Vellu Halkosalmi, Music Education Designer for Bass and Ukulele
Similar to the Guitar one, in the basic melody exercise (level 2) you’ll play a simplified arrangement of the vocal melody, as well as some instrumental melodies. The Chorus is tricky, so start slow in practice mode, and learn one section at a time.
In the basic chords exercise (level 4) you’ll strum some familiar chords: C, F, Am, G. Use down-strums for the whole exercise, and focus on the rhythm. The verse is a combination of on-beat and off-beat strums, whereas the chorus is all off-beat strums.
In the full chords exercise (level 7) you’ll play the full strumming pattern from the recorded song. There’s a fast chord change from F to C that repeats a lot, so you might want to start by mastering that particular chord change before playing the full song at 100% speed. For the best timing accuracy, try keeping your strumming hand moving in time with the pulse.
Ho Hey for Singing
by: Arttu Juntunen, Music Education Designer for Piano and Singing
This is a great song for improving your vocal agility, as the chorus has a fast melody. Try to slow it down in practice mode and practice hitting every note in tune. Then gradually add speed until you reach the original speed of the recording.