Come As You Are Tabs: Your Guide To Playing Nirvana's Classic Hit Today

Pat Barrows 23 Aug 2025

Have you ever felt that pull, that urge to pick up a guitar and just play a song that speaks to your soul? For many, that song is Nirvana's "Come As You Are." And if you're looking for "come as you are tabs," you're not just seeking notes; you're looking for a way to connect with a piece of music history, a way to move toward playing something truly special.

It’s a feeling many musicians, both new and seasoned, recognize. You want to bring that iconic riff to life, to make advances toward that musical goal, as the definition of "come" suggests. This guide is here to help you do exactly that, breaking down how to learn this memorable tune.

We'll explore the steps involved, from finding the right tabs to getting your fingers ready. You might be a beginner, or perhaps you're someone with some playing experience; either way, this song offers a rewarding experience. It's almost like the song itself invites you to "come as you are," ready to learn.

What "Come As You Are" Tabs Mean for You
Getting Started: Finding Your Tabs
- Guitar Tabs: The Basics
- Bass Tabs: Laying the Foundation
Understanding the Song's Structure
Tips for Learning "Come As You Are"
Why This Song Endures
Frequently Asked Questions About "Come As You Are" Tabs
Ready to Play: Your Next Steps

What "Come As You Are" Tabs Mean for You

When you look for "come as you are tabs," you are, in a way, moving toward a specific goal. Just as "come" can mean to approach or move toward a particular person or place, you are moving toward playing this song. It's about taking the first steps to recreate a sound that has touched so many people. These tabs offer a roadmap, showing you where to put your fingers on the fretboard.

For many, this song represents an entry point into playing guitar or bass. It’s often one of the first songs people try to learn, and for a good reason. The main riff is instantly recognizable, and it's quite approachable for various skill levels. You might be surprised at how quickly you can get the basic parts down.

The beauty of "come as you are tabs" is that they break down the music into a very visual format. Instead of traditional sheet music, which uses symbols, tabs show you numbers on lines. Each line stands for a string on your instrument, and the numbers tell you which fret to press. This makes it a bit simpler to get started, especially if you're just beginning your musical journey.

Understanding what "come" means, as in "to make advances to a goal," really fits with learning this song. Every time you practice a section, you are making progress. You are moving closer to that point where you can play the whole tune from start to finish. It’s a very satisfying feeling, too, when you reach that particular state or situation of playing a full song.

Getting Started: Finding Your Tabs

Finding good "come as you are tabs" is your first practical step. There are many places online where you can find these. You might look for guitar tabs or bass tabs, depending on what instrument you play. It's important to find versions that are clear and easy to follow, as some can be a little confusing.

When you find a tab, you're looking for information and translations of the music into a playable format. These resources aim to be the most comprehensive definitions resource for how to play the song. You want to make sure the tab you pick is accurate. Sometimes, different versions exist, so it's good to compare a few if you can.

As of early 2024, many websites offer these tabs for free. You can also find them in songbooks or music apps. The goal is to get a reliable set of instructions that will help you move toward playing the song effectively. Remember, you're trying to "come to see me more often" in terms of practice, so a good tab helps that along.

Guitar Tabs: The Basics

For guitarists, "come as you are tabs" typically show six lines, representing the six strings of a guitar. The thickest string is usually at the bottom of the tab, and the thinnest string is at the top. Numbers on these lines tell you which fret to press down. A '0' means to play the string open, without pressing any fret.

The main riff of "Come As You Are" is famous for its simplicity and unique sound. It uses a specific tuning, often referred to as drop D tuning, where the low E string is tuned down to D. This is a key detail you'll want to check when you find your tabs. It changes how you approach the song, quite literally, as you adjust your instrument.

Many tabs will also include chord diagrams above the tab lines, which can be helpful. This lets you see the full chord shape if you're playing rhythm guitar parts. You can find "come as you are chords using simple video lessons" too, which can complement your tab reading. These visual aids are really helpful for understanding the song's construction.

Bass Tabs: Laying the Foundation

If you're a bassist, "come as you are bass tab by Nirvana" is a fantastic piece to learn. The bass line in this song is just as iconic as the guitar riff, providing a strong foundation for the whole track. Bass tabs usually show four lines, for the four strings of a bass guitar. The principles are the same as guitar tabs: lines for strings, numbers for frets.

The bass part is fairly straightforward but has a distinct groove. It often mirrors the guitar riff, but with its own feel. Learning the bass line can help you understand the song's rhythmic pulse and how the different instruments fit together. It's a great way to "come along on the hike" with the guitar, as the bass takes the lead in setting the rhythm.

You'll find that many online resources offer "chords ratings, diagrams and lyrics" alongside the bass tabs. This can give you a more complete picture of the song, even if you're focusing on the bass. It's really about getting all the information you need to move toward playing the song well.

Understanding the Song's Structure

To truly learn "Come As You Are," it helps to understand how the song is put together. This means knowing the order of its parts: the intro, verses, choruses, and any bridge sections. Knowing the structure helps you "come to an end" of one section and "come into operation" with the next part of the song smoothly.

The song has a clear, repeating pattern that makes it relatively easy to follow once you get the main riff down. It's not overly complex, which is one reason it's so popular for learning. You're trying to "understand what come means, get detailed explanations, usage examples," and here, it means understanding the song's flow.

Many resources will help you "learn to play come as you are (ver. 3) by Nirvana using chords and tabs, watching video lessons and much more." These often break down the song section by section, which is a very effective way to learn it bit by bit. This helps you approach the song in manageable chunks.

The Famous Opening Riff

The opening riff of "Come As You Are" is arguably the most recognizable part of the song. It's played on a guitar with a chorus effect, giving it that wavy, underwater sound. This riff is where many people start when they look for "come as you are tabs." It's the hook that draws you in.

Learning this riff involves getting comfortable with the drop D tuning, if you're playing guitar. The notes are played slowly and deliberately, so you have time to place your fingers. It's a great exercise for precision and timing. You're moving toward hitting those notes just right, making advances to that goal of sounding like the original.

Practice this riff until it feels natural. It sets the tone for the entire song, and getting it right will give you a big confidence boost. You'll feel yourself "coming along fine" as you get better at it, which is a good sign of progress.

Verse and Chorus Progressions

After the intro, the song moves into the verse and chorus sections. The guitar and bass parts here often build upon the main riff, or they introduce new, but still relatively simple, chord shapes or bass lines. The structure is quite repetitive, which makes it easier to memorize.

The verses typically feature a more subdued feel, with the instruments supporting the vocals. The chorus then opens up, becoming more powerful. Understanding these shifts helps you play with the right feel and dynamics. It's about letting the music "come to life" in your hands.

Pay attention to the rhythm and timing in these sections. While the notes might be simple, playing them with the right groove is what makes the song sound authentic. You might want to "play along with original audio" to get a feel for how it all fits together. This helps you understand the meaning of "come" in the context of musical flow.

Solo Section (or lack thereof)

Interestingly, "Come As You Are" does not feature a traditional, flashy guitar solo. Instead, there's a short, melodic guitar line that serves as a break before the final chorus. This part is also quite approachable for players.

This melodic interlude keeps the song's mood consistent and doesn't distract from the main themes. Learning this section is just another step in mastering the entire song. You're moving toward completing the whole piece, one part at a time. It’s a bit like seeing the "definition of come verb in oxford advanced learner's dictionary" and then seeing it used in a full sentence.

It's a good example of how a song can be incredibly effective without needing a complex solo. The power comes from the memorable riffs and the overall feel. So, you might find this part a little less challenging than a typical rock solo, which is rather nice.

Tips for Learning "Come As You Are"

Learning any song takes a bit of effort, but with "come as you are tabs," you have a clear path. Here are some pointers to help you along. You want to approach this with a good plan, just like "to approach or move toward someone or something" implies a direction.

Remember that you're trying to make advances to a goal. This means being patient with yourself and celebrating small wins. It's a process, and every little bit of practice helps you get closer to playing the song confidently. You'll find that things are "coming along fine" with consistent effort.

Practice Makes Progress

Consistent practice is, well, very important. Even short, regular practice sessions are more effective than one long session once a week. Try to set aside 15-30 minutes each day to work on the song. Focus on one section at a time until you feel comfortable with it.

Use a metronome to help with your timing. This will ensure you play the notes at the correct speed and rhythm. You want your playing to "come a little closer" to the original recording's timing. Start slow, then gradually increase the tempo as you get more confident. This builds muscle memory.

Don't be afraid to make mistakes; they are part of the learning process. Just keep trying. The more you practice, the more natural the movements will become. You're just trying to get better, so keep at it.

Using Different Resources

While "come as you are tabs" are a great starting point, don't limit yourself. Look for video lessons on platforms like YouTube. Seeing someone play the song can clarify finger placement and technique in a way that tabs alone cannot. Many people find visual learning very helpful.

You can also check out online forums or communities where other musicians discuss the song. You might find unique insights or tips that help you. It's a way to "go with someone else who takes the lead" in terms of learning, getting guidance from others. There are, actually, so many resources out there.

Consider using an external resource like a reputable music learning site for different versions of tabs or additional lessons. This can give you a broader perspective and help you refine your playing. Learning is a continuous process, after all.

Tuning Your Instrument

For guitarists, remember the drop D tuning. This is crucial for "Come As You Are." If your guitar isn't tuned correctly, the song just won't sound right. A digital tuner or a tuning app on your phone can help you achieve this quickly and accurately. This is a very basic but often overlooked step.

Bass players will generally stick to standard tuning, but it's always good to double-check. A properly tuned instrument is fundamental to making any song sound good. You want your instrument to be ready to "come into operation" for playing the song.

Make tuning a part of your pre-practice routine. It takes only a moment, but it makes a huge difference in your sound and your overall learning experience. You'll find that things just sound better, which makes practicing more enjoyable.

Why This Song Endures

"Come As You Are" has remained a favorite for decades, and its popularity for those seeking "come as you are tabs" continues today. The song's enduring appeal comes from its memorable riff, its simple yet powerful structure, and its relatable lyrics. It speaks to a feeling of acceptance and authenticity.

The song's message, to "come as you are," resonates with many people. It suggests a welcoming atmosphere, a place where you don't have to pretend to be something you're not. This theme, too, can be applied to learning music; you can approach it at your own pace, with your own skill level, and still find success.

Nirvana's music, in general, has a raw, honest quality that captures the imagination. This particular song, with its distinctive sound and meaning, has become a cornerstone of rock music. It's a song that, in a way, just keeps "coming" back to new generations of listeners and players.

The ability to "play come as you are chords using simple video lessons" or tabs means more people can connect with this piece of music. It’s a testament to its accessibility and universal appeal. It's a song that really helps you "understand what come means, get detailed explanations, usage examples, and discover the meaning of come in different contexts" through music.

Frequently Asked Questions About "Come As You Are" Tabs

Many people have questions when they start looking for "come as you are tabs." Here are some common inquiries that often come up, just like people asking for more information.

Is "Come As You Are" hard to play for beginners?

Actually, the main riff of "Come As You Are" is often considered quite approachable for beginners, especially on guitar. The notes are played slowly, and the finger positions are not overly complicated. The drop D tuning for guitar is the main thing to get used to. For bass, it's also a good starting point. So, it's a pretty good choice for those just starting out.

What tuning do I need for "Come As You Are" on guitar?

For the guitar part of "Come As You Are," you typically need to use drop D tuning. This means you tune your low E string down a whole step to D. The other strings (A, D, G, B, high E) remain in standard tuning. This specific tuning is really important for getting the song's signature sound. It's how the song "comes into operation" with its unique character.

Where can I find reliable "Come As You Are" tabs?

You can find reliable "come as you are tabs" on various online music education websites and tab archives. Many guitar and bass learning platforms offer user-submitted or professionally transcribed versions. Searching for "Nirvana guitar tabs" or "come as you are bass tab" will usually give you many options. It's a good idea to check a few different sources to compare and ensure accuracy, so you can truly "come to see me more often" in terms of practice.

Ready to Play: Your Next Steps

Now that you have a better idea of what "come as you are tabs" involve, it's time to put that knowledge into action. Pick up your instrument, find those tabs, and start practicing. Remember, the journey of learning a song is about making advances to a goal, one note at a time.

Don't forget to check out more about guitar learning resources on our site, which can help you with other songs too. You might also find helpful tips and tricks on this page for improving your playing overall. We're here to help you "come" to a place where you feel confident with your instrument.

The feeling of playing a song you love is incredibly rewarding. So, take that first step, or keep going if you've already started. Let the music of "Come As You Are" truly come to life through your playing. It's a wonderful experience, really.

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