Just so I am not misunderstood, my view is that knowing how chords are built is useful for one reason only--so you can figure out a chord for the purpose of learning it. For playing chordal music, e.g. blues, jazz, pop, rock, etc., you must know how to play the chords used without thinking.kiwi wrote:Like others said it's better to understand how the chords are built but personnaly i know some chords instantly it's usefull for improvisation.
To learn a song, look at the chords used in the song. If there are any you don't know, then learn the new chords before you attempt to learn the song.
There is no magic silver bullet for learning chords or music in general. It simply comes down to methodical study and practice consistently over a long period of time. Pick whatever method appeals to you. As long as it is a reasonably well worked out comprehensive plan of study, it will work if you work at it consistently for a long enough period of time.
What won't work is spending your time looking for magic methods that will teach you to play overnight. Or changing your approach every few _________ (fill in any period of time shorter than a year).
If you want to get somewhere, pick a pony and ride.