Counting Stars by OneRepublic Acoustic Guitar - Digital Sheet Music

SKU: A0.1827151

INCLUDES:
1) HYBRID (lyrics + chords) chart
2) LYRICS ONLY chart

"Counting Stars" is OneRepublic's genre-blending pop-rock hit from their 2013 album Native, featuring an instantly recognizable fingerpicked acoustic guitar pattern paired with stomping, foot-driven percussion that builds from intimate folk textures to arena-ready anthemic choruses. "Counting Stars" is a perfect choice for intermediate to advanced bands seeking to master dynamic control and the art of building musical tension across a song's arc. The guitar work centers on a cyclical fingerpicking pattern that demands consistent accuracy, steady timing, and the discipline to maintain the hypnotic groove while layering in strummed power chords during the explosive choruses, teaching guitarists how to seamlessly transition between delicate picking and full-band rock dynamics. The bass line is rhythmically engaging and melodically supportive, featuring syncopated patterns that weave through the pocket with strategic rests and punchy attacks, requiring precise timing, dynamic awareness, and the ability to leave space while driving forward momentum. For singers, "Counting Stars" provides exceptional practice in narrative storytelling through verses delivered with intimate, conversational phrasing before shifting gears into powerful, sustained chorus melodies that demand breath control, strong pitch accuracy, and the ability to project emotion across contrasting dynamic levels. The song's infectious stomp-along energy and modern pop sensibility make it an instant sing-along moment that showcases a band's versatility and ability to deliver contemporary pop with organic, human-powered intensity.


A NOTE ABOUT DR. TOMS CHARTS
DR. TOMS CHARTS help musicians make more music together. Inspired by the Nashville Number System and the classic Rise Up Singing, these charts emphasize song form with lyrics overlaid on top of evenly spaced chords. These musical roadmaps let you focus on what you love: vocal delivery, groove, harmonies, feel, and more! You can even experiment with different styles and meters.

In the HYBRID chart, the first chord of each line aligns with the first word or syllable on the downbeat, highlighting pickups and delayed entries. Subsequent chords may not align exactly with every word, but once the singer nails the entry, everything locks in! This format might look unfamiliar at first, but evenly spaced chords improve groove and accuracy. The harmonic rhythm guides the melody! For singers, the LYRICS ONLY chart provides all the words with rehearsal cues (intros, verses, bridges, solos).

Keep on jammin'!
Dr. Tom


WHO IS DR. TOM?
Dr. Tom Zlabinger is a bass player, guitar player, and singer who has been jamming since high school. He is an Associate Professor of Music at York College / CUNY, where he has taught popular music performance since 2003. He holds a B.A. in music from Grinnell College, an M.A. in jazz performance from Queens College / CUNY, and a Ph.D. in ethnomusicology from the Graduate Center / CUNY. Dr. Tom has published on jams, live online performance, and the role of musicians across various media franchises. He is passionate about innovations that make music making more accessible to musicians of all levels and backgrounds. In 2022, he founded Telematic Studios® to help musicians connect through online voice lessons, clear and legal charts, and live online performance.