The latest video in Fretello’s Guitar Hacks series focuses on learning to play Power Chords, using small tricks and demos to help you master the skill easier.
What Are Power Chords?
Power chords are the backbone of rock and metal music. Known for their bold, punchy sound, they deliver the kind of raw energy you hear in tracks by legends like AC/DC, Nirvana, and Green Day. But what exactly are power chords?
At their core, a power chord is a simplified chord made up of just two or three notes: the root note and the fifth interval. Unlike full major or minor chords, power chords leave out the third, which gives them their neutral, heavy sound — not too happy, not too sad, just pure power. That’s why they’re also often called "fifth chords" (you’ll see them written as things like G5, A5, or E5).
They're also incredibly beginner-friendly. Power chords use simple shapes that can be moved up and down the fretboard, making them one of the easiest and most fun ways to start playing full songs.
Famous Examples of Power Chords:
- “Smoke on the Water” – Deep Purple
One of the most iconic guitar riffs ever, built almost entirely on power chord shapes. - “Smells Like Teen Spirit” – Nirvana
Kurt Cobain’s grunge anthem lives on power chords and raw distortion. - “Iron Man” – Black Sabbath
A perfect example of how heavy power chords can sound with the right tone.
Learn Power Chords with the Fretello App
Whether you're just picking up a guitar for the first time or looking to level up your skills, the Fretello app is your ultimate companion.
Inside the app, you’ll find:
- Step-by-step guitar lessons tailored to beginners and advancing players
- Interactive exercises that teach you how to play power chords, riffs, and full songs
- Built-in feedback on your playing so you know what to improve
- A growing library of classic rock songs to jam along with
- Daily practice plans to help you build calluses, muscle memory, and confidence
With Fretello, learning guitar is fun, structured, and completely on your terms. You don’t need hours a day — just a few minutes of focused practice using the app, and you’ll be surprised how fast you improve.
Ready to Play Like a Rock Star?
Nobody’s born knowing how to play guitar. But with the right tools, like Fretello, and consistent practice, you can go from complete beginner to playing real songs in no time.
🎸 Download the Fretello app today and start learning guitar the smart, fun, and effective way.