Shallow Chords & Lyrics: Lady Gaga & Bradley Cooper

Hey everyone! Today, we're diving deep into one of the most iconic duets of our time: "Shallow" by Lady Gaga and Bradley Cooper from the movie A Star Is Born. This song isn't just a hit; it's an emotional journey that has resonated with millions. So, if you're a guitarist, a singer, or just a fan looking to strum along, you've come to the right place. We're going to break down the chords and lyrics, making it super easy for you to learn and sing this masterpiece.

Understanding the Magic of "Shallow"

Before we get into the nitty-gritty of chords and lyrics, let's talk about why "Shallow" is so special. This song is a powerful anthem about yearning for something more, for a deeper connection, and for escaping the superficiality of everyday life. Lady Gaga's raw, powerful vocals combined with Bradley Cooper's rugged, heartfelt delivery create a dynamic that's simply electric. The build-up in the song, from its quiet, intimate beginning to its explosive, soaring chorus, perfectly mirrors the emotional arc of the characters in the film. It’s the kind of song that gives you goosebumps and makes you want to sing at the top of your lungs. The narrative within the lyrics speaks to a universal desire for authenticity and a longing to break free from the "shallow" end of life and dive into something more meaningful. This theme of seeking depth and connection is what makes the song so relatable and enduring. It's more than just a pop song; it's a story told through music, with every note and every word carefully crafted to evoke strong emotions. The chemistry between Gaga and Cooper on screen and in this song is undeniable, adding another layer of depth to its already profound impact. The simplicity of the initial chords often belies the emotional complexity that unfolds as the song progresses, making it a perfect example of how music can tell a story and connect with listeners on a visceral level. The way the song builds intensity, with Gaga's voice reaching new heights, is a testament to her incredible vocal talent and the masterful songwriting. It’s a true artistic collaboration that has cemented its place in music history.

Getting Started: The Key and Basic Chords

Alright guys, let's get our instruments ready! "Shallow" is primarily played in the key of E major. The beauty of this song lies in its relatively simple chord progression, especially in the verses. This makes it super accessible for beginner and intermediate players. The main chords you'll need to master are:

• E Major (E): This is your home base chord. It's bright and full.
• B Major (B): Often played as Bsus4 and then B, adding a nice flavor.
• C# Minor (C#m): A bit of a moodier chord, perfect for the emotional weight of the lyrics.
• A Major (A): A classic, versatile chord that fits right in.

For those of you playing guitar, here are the common fingerings:

• E Major: Standard open E chord (022100).
• B Major: You can use the barre chord at the 2nd fret (x24442) or a simpler open B7 (x21202) which works well too, especially for a more folksy feel. Some players find a simplified B major easier.
• C# Minor: The barre chord at the 4th fret (x46654) or a simpler open C#m (x46654) is also common.
• A Major: Standard open A chord (x02220).

On piano or keyboard, these are straightforward. The progressions feel natural and create that iconic sound. Don't worry if you can't nail the barre chords right away; there are often simpler voicings that will still capture the essence of the song. The goal is to get comfortable with the changes between these chords. Practice transitioning smoothly from E to B, then to C#m, and finally to A. This sequence forms the backbone of the song's verses and chorus, so getting it down pat is key to playing "Shallow".

Verse 1: Setting the Scene

The song kicks off with a gentle, almost hesitant feel, mirroring the characters' initial interactions and inner turmoil. Lady Gaga opens with a soft, introspective tone. The chord progression here is quite simple and repetitive, making it easy to follow along. We're sticking primarily with E, B, C#m, and A. It's all about creating that intimate, vulnerable atmosphere.

(Bradley Cooper - Verse 1)

(E)Tell me somethin', girl
(B)Are you happy in this (C#m)modern world?
(A)Or do you need more?
(E)Is there somethin' else you're (B)longin' for?

See? Just those four chords. The rhythm is typically played with a simple strumming pattern, often emphasizing the downbeats, or fingerpicked for a more delicate sound. Think about playing each chord for about two beats, allowing the notes to ring out and create space. This sparse arrangement is crucial for drawing the listener into the lyrical narrative. The repetition of the E-B-C#m-A progression in the verses helps build a sense of contemplation and questioning. It's like a musical sigh, a moment of quiet reflection before the storm. Cooper's voice, deep and slightly weathered, adds a layer of authenticity to these introspective lines. It feels like a genuine conversation, a moment of vulnerability shared between two souls.

Pre-Chorus: The Build-Up

As the song progresses into the pre-chorus, there's a subtle shift. The intensity starts to build slightly, hinting at the emotional release to come. We're still using the same core chords, but the phrasing and dynamics change. This section is where the questions become more direct, and the desire for something deeper starts to surface more explicitly. It's the bridge between the quiet contemplation of the verses and the powerful declaration of the chorus.

(E)And when you feel like you're (B)sinking low
(C#m)Tell me, are you…
(A)                                  (E)

The pre-chorus often feels a bit more drawn out, especially the transition back to the E chord. The tension is palpable. You can feel the characters grappling with their dissatisfaction and their yearning. The pause before the final line of the pre-chorus, right before Lady Gaga’s iconic entry, is critical. It’s a moment of anticipation, a breath held before the plunge. This musical pause amplifies the emotional weight of the upcoming chorus, making it all the more impactful when it finally arrives. The simple chord structure allows the emotional delivery to take center stage, which is precisely what this section requires. It's all about setting the stage for the explosion of feeling that's about to happen.

Chorus: The Soaring "Shallow"

And here it is, the moment we've all been waiting for – the chorus! This is where Lady Gaga truly unleashes her vocal power. The chords remain familiar (E, B, C#m, A), but the delivery is completely different. It's anthemic, soaring, and full of raw emotion. This is the core message of the song: the desire to escape the superficial and dive into something real.

(E)I'm off the deep end, watch as I (B)dive in
I'll never meet the ground (C#m)Crash through the surface, where they can't hurt us
We're far from the shallow (A)now

This section often features a stronger strumming pattern or more powerful piano chords. The intensity ramps up significantly. Notice how the lyrics reflect this –