Product Description
This is a professionally prepared, fully notated simplified transcription and TAB arrangement for 4-string bass guitar, acoustic guitar, and electric guitar, all in standard tuning (E-A-D-G for bass, E-A-D-G-B-E for guitars), of the emotional chart-topping ballad When I Was Your Man by multi-talented pop, funk, and R&B artist Bruno Mars. Originally released in 2012 as part of his critically acclaimed and Grammy-winning album Unorthodox Jukebox, this song has become one of the most recognized and performed love ballads of the decade.
Arranged in the key of C Major / A Minor, the transcription stays true to the harmonic and melodic content of the original piano-driven ballad while being adapted for guitar and bass players in a simplified and accessible way. This version allows beginner and intermediate musicians to experience the heartfelt soul of the original composition with clear, readable tablature (TAB) and well-structured notation for all three instruments.
This arrangement is designed for players who want to engage with the emotional weight and tenderness of Bruno Mars songwriting without the technical challenges of the original keyboard version. The bass line is supportive, melodic, and carefully simplified, providing harmonic grounding without sacrificing the groove. The guitar and acoustic parts have been arranged to capture the essence of the piano chords and melodic movements in a guitar-friendly format, making this perfect for solo or ensemble playing, cover performances, music education, and intimate live sets.
When I Was Your Man is a modern classic that blends soul, pop, R&B, and a touch of vintage Motown ballad style, delivering a raw, vulnerable vocal paired with delicate harmony. This simplified arrangement honors that emotional intensity while making the song playable for musicians at various levels. It is ideal for wedding performances, recitals, acoustic showcases, open mics, classroom settings, or personal enjoyment.
Whether you are a student, music educator, cover artist, or simply a fan of Bruno Mars, this arrangement is a powerful and meaningful addition to your repertoire. It offers a unique way to perform a contemporary love ballad using the expressive voice of guitar and bass, all while staying faithful to the spirit of the original recording.
Bring the emotion of "When I Was Your Man" to life with this high-quality, easy-to-follow transcription for bass, guitar, and acoustic guitar a timeless song, reimagined for stringed instruments.
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This product was created by a member of ArrangeMe, Hal Leonard's global self-publishing community of independent composers, arrangers, and songwriters. ArrangeMe allows for the publication of unique arrangements of both popular titles and original compositions from a wide variety of voices and backgrounds.