How to Play Worth It All Tutorials & Strumming Patterns

When it comes to worship music, few songs evoke as much heartfelt devotion and commitment as David Crowder Band's "Worth It All." Its powerful message and soaring melody have made it a staple in countless churches and personal devotionals. But if you’re looking to master the chords and strumming patterns to this modern classic, you might have run into some confusion. You're not alone! Many wonder how to play "Worth It All" tutorials & strumming patterns, often navigating similar-sounding titles.
This comprehensive guide cuts through the noise, focusing specifically on David Crowder Band's iconic track. We’ll break down every chord, reveal the rhythmic secrets, and offer practical tips to help you play this song with confidence and expression, whether you’re leading worship or simply enjoying a moment of personal reflection.

At a Glance: Your Roadmap to "Worth It All"

Clarify the Song: We'll focus on David Crowder Band's "Worth It All," distinguishing it from other similarly titled worship songs.
Essential Chords: Learn all the chords needed, from standard shapes to a few unique voicings.
Strumming Dynamics: Discover adaptable strumming patterns that capture the song's reflective verses and powerful choruses.
Section-by-Section Breakdown: A detailed guide through the intro, verses, choruses, and bridge.
Beyond the Basics: Tips for adding depth, emotion, and personal flair to your performance.
Practice Smart: Strategies to help you master the song efficiently and effectively.

Unpacking "Worth It All": The David Crowder Band Anthem

Before we dive into the frets and rhythms, let’s ensure we’re all on the same page. The worship landscape features several beautiful songs with similar names. For instance, David Brymer's "Worthy of It All" is another profound piece, declaring "All the saints and angels / They bow before Your throne." While a powerful anthem in its own right, our focus today is on the David Crowder Band's "Worth It All," with its distinct lyrics like "All I am Lord, here before You / Reaching out for more."
This distinction is crucial because the chords, structure, and feel are quite different. "Worth It All" by David Crowder Band (often just called Crowder) is celebrated for its evocative build-ups and a powerful declaration of surrender and finding everything in Jesus. It's a song of profound devotion, asking listeners to consider what they'd let go of to truly have "all of You." Its blend of acoustic drive and anthemic swells makes it a fantastic song to learn for both its musicality and its message.

Gear Up: What You'll Need to Play

You don't need a massive studio setup to play "Worth It All." A good acoustic guitar is often preferred for its warmth and versatility in this style of music, though electric players can certainly adapt it (perhaps with a clean tone and a touch of reverb).
Here’s a quick checklist to get started:

Guitar: An acoustic guitar is ideal. Electric works too, set to a clean or lightly overdriven tone.
Tuner: Essential for ensuring your guitar is perfectly in tune. Standard EADGBe tuning is what we'll be using.
Picks: A medium-gauge pick (0.60mm-0.73mm) offers a good balance for strumming and articulation.
Capo: While not strictly required for the chords we’ll discuss in their original key (A major relative to F#m), capos are fantastic tools for transposing songs or finding a more comfortable vocal range. For this specific arrangement, a capo isn't needed with the chords provided.
Metronome (Optional but Recommended): A valuable tool for developing consistent rhythm and timing.

Mastering the "Worth It All" Chords

"Worth It All" uses a relatively common set of chords, but with a few voicings that add depth and character. Don't be intimidated by the F#m7 or the slash chords; we'll break them down.
Here are the primary chords you’ll encounter:

F#m7
D (often D2, which we'll explain)
A
E
A/C# (A major chord with C# in the bass)
D/F# (D major chord with F# in the bass)
E/G# (E major chord with G# in the bass)
Let's look at how to form these, with a focus on ease and clarity. Remember, these are common voicings, and slight variations can also work!

Chord Breakdown: Finger Placement & Tips

F#m7 (F sharp minor 7)

This is a crucial chord in the song and sets the melancholic, reflective tone for the verses.
Voicing 1 (Barre Chord - Classic):
Index finger barre across all strings at the 2nd fret.
Ring finger on 4th fret of A string.
Pinky finger on 4th fret of D string.
Middle finger on 3rd fret of G string. (This is a full F#m barre, F#m7 often removes the pinky, leaving the G string at 2nd fret, or more commonly is played as shown below)
Voicing 2 (Easier, Common for Worship):
Index finger on 2nd fret of low E string (F#).
Mute A string (or play open A, but muting is cleaner for F#m).
Middle finger on 2nd fret of D string (A).
Ring finger on 2nd fret of G string (F#).
Pinky finger on 2nd fret of B string (E).
High E string open (E).
Resulting sound: F# (E string), muted A, A (D string), F# (G string), E (B string), E (high E string). A beautiful, open sound.
Tip: Experiment with muting the A string with the tip of your index finger from the low E string.

D Major & D2 (D sus 2)

D Major (Standard):
Index finger on 2nd fret of G string.
Middle finger on 2nd fret of high E string.
Ring finger on 3rd fret of B string.
Play from the D string down (open D).
D2 (D sus 2 - Most common in this song):
This is essentially a D major chord but without the F# (the 3rd) on the high E string, making it an E instead (the 2nd).
Index finger on 2nd fret of G string.
Ring finger on 3rd fret of B string.
High E string open.
Play from the D string down (open D).
Tip: D2 has a slightly more open, less resolved sound, which works perfectly for the atmospheric verses. It’s also often easier for beginners than a full D.

A Major

Standard Voicing:
Middle finger on 2nd fret of D string.
Ring finger on 2nd fret of G string.
Pinky finger on 2nd fret of B string.
Play from the A string down (open A).
Tip: Try playing it with your index, middle, and ring fingers all lined up on the second fret for a compact shape, or using just one finger to barre them if your fingers are strong enough.

E Major

Standard Voicing:
Index finger on 1st fret of G string.
Middle finger on 2nd fret of A string.
Ring finger on 2nd fret of D string.
Play all six strings (open E).
Tip: This is a foundational chord; ensure all notes ring clear.

A/C# (A with C# in the bass)

This is an A major chord, but you're playing a C# as the lowest note. This usually means lifting your middle finger from the A string to allow the A to be played open, and then placing another finger on the 4th fret of the A string.
Voicing:
Mute low E string.
Middle finger on 4th fret of A string (C#).
Index finger on 2nd fret of D string (E).
Ring finger on 2nd fret of G string (C#).
Pinky finger on 2nd fret of B string (E).
Open high E string (E).
Tip: This chord creates a powerful ascending bass line in the bridge. Focus on getting that C# bass note clear.

D/F# (D with F# in the bass)

Similar concept: a D major chord, but with F# as the lowest note.
Voicing:
Index finger on 2nd fret of low E string (F#).
Mute A string (or try to avoid hitting it).
Middle finger on 2nd fret of G string (A).
Ring finger on 3rd fret of B string (D).
Open high E string (E).
Tip: The F# on the low E string is key. Use your thumb to wrap over the neck to hit this note if comfortable, or use your index finger and mute the A string.

E/G# (E with G# in the bass)

An E major chord with G# as the lowest note.
Voicing:
Middle finger on 4th fret of low E string (G#).
Ring finger on 2nd fret of A string (B).
Index finger on 1st fret of G string (G#).
Open D string (E).
Open B string (B).
Open high E string (E).
Tip: This is a stretch for some, but crucial for the bridge's melodic movement. Practice transitioning into it from other chords.
Practicing these chord shapes until they ring clear and you can switch between them smoothly is your first big step. If you're looking for a more in-depth guide to these specific chord shapes and more, you'll find comprehensive diagrams and finger placement tips in our Worth It All Chords tutorial.

Unlocking the Strumming Patterns & Rhythms

"Worth It All" isn't just about hitting the right notes; it’s about feeling the rhythm and dynamics that drive its emotional arc. The song transitions from reflective, building verses to an expansive, anthemic chorus. Your strumming should reflect this journey.

The Basic Foundation: A Versatile Strum

For beginners, a solid foundational strum pattern that you can modify is essential. Try this pattern, which you can speed up or slow down:
Down - Down-Up - Up-Down-Up (counts as 1 & 2 & 3 & 4 &)

1: Downstroke (accented)
&: (Upstroke)
2: Downstroke
&: Upstroke
3: Downstroke
&: Upstroke
4: Downstroke
&: Upstroke
This pattern gives you a consistent eighth-note feel that you can apply loosely. The key is to keep your strumming hand moving constantly, even if you’re not always hitting the strings.

Crafting the "Worth It All" Groove: Dynamics Are Key

The real magic happens when you vary your strumming to match the song's energy.

Verses (F#m7 D2 A): The Reflective Build

Start soft, perhaps with a gentle Down - Down-Up on each chord, focusing on the bass strings for a quieter, more intimate feel.
You can also try Down - Down-Up - (mute) - Up-Down-Up where the "mute" is a light palm mute or just lifting the pick.
As the verse progresses, gradually increase your strumming intensity and volume. You might add more full downstrokes or incorporate the full basic pattern.
Think of a quiet whisper growing into a confident statement.

Chorus (D A F#m E): The Anthemic Release

This is where you open up and strum with more conviction. The basic Down - Down-Up - Up-Down-Up pattern, played with fuller, more powerful strokes, works wonderfully.
Emphasize the downbeats. Feel the pulse.
The "You are worth it all" repeated sections (D F#m E D F#m E) demand a strong, consistent strum.
Tip: Don't be afraid to lean into the chord changes here. Your strumming should feel expansive and full.

Bridge (D A/C# E F#m): The Ascending Build-Up

The bridge is a powerful build, often starting with a slightly subdued feel that grows to a crescendo.
Initially, you might use a similar dynamic build as the verses, but with a more driving rhythm.
As the lyrics progress ("All the saints cry holy holy / Angels singing worthy worthy"), you should be at your most powerful strumming. Full, open chords, strong downstrokes, and a sustained energy.
Consider a Down - Down-Down-Up - Up-Down-Up pattern, focusing on driving the rhythm forward.

Advanced Strumming Nuances: Adding Polish

Palm Muting: Lightly rest the edge of your strumming hand near the bridge of the guitar to create a percussive, muffled sound. This is excellent for keeping the verses intimate or creating rhythmic drive without too much sustain.
Dynamics: This is paramount. Practice going from whisper-soft to full-on powerful. It’s not just about volume, but also attack, the number of strings you hit, and how much force you use.
Accents: Emphasize certain beats in your strumming. Usually, this means making your main downstrokes a bit stronger.
The key to strumming "Worth It All" is to listen to the original recording. Notice how the guitar ebbs and flows with the vocals and the emotional journey of the song. Try to mimic that feel.

Section-by-Section Breakdown: Playing "Worth It All"

Now, let's put it all together. We’ll walk through each part of the song, providing chord progressions and strumming suggestions.

Intro: Setting the Scene

The intro is often played with a gentle, almost arpeggiated feel on acoustic guitar, setting a reflective tone.
Chords: F#m7 D A (repeated)

Strumming Suggestion: Start very softly. You could use single downstrokes on each chord, or a slow, delicate Down - Down-Up pattern. Fingerpicking the individual notes of the chords can also create a beautiful, ethereal intro. Think about the high notes of the F#m7 and A chords ringing out.
Progression:
F#m7 D A
F#m7 D A (repeat once or twice)

Verse 1 & 2: The Heart's Longing

The verses carry the core narrative of surrender and seeking God's presence. Keep them intimate, building subtly.
Chords: F#m7 D2 A (repeated for each line)

Lyrics & Chords:
F#m7 D2 A
All I am Lord, here before You
F#m7 D2 A
Reaching out for more
F#m7 D2 A
You're the promise never failing
F#m7 D2 A
You are my reward, Jesus, You are my reward
Strumming Suggestion: Start with a gentle, sparse strum – perhaps Down - Down-Up on each chord. Focus on clarity and the emotion of the lyrics. As the verse progresses, you can gradually increase the strumming intensity, adding more downstrokes or moving towards the basic full pattern. The "You are my reward" lines can have a slight increase in emphasis.

Chorus: The Declaration

This is the central declaration of the song, a powerful moment of surrender. Open up your strumming here.
Chords: D A F#m E (for the main lines) followed by D F#m E (repeated for "You are worth it all")

Lyrics & Chords:
D A F#m E
I'll let go of all I have just to have all of You
D A F#m E
And no matter what the cost, I will follow You
D A F#m E
Jesus ev'rything I've lost I have found in You
D A E
When I fin'lly reach the end I'll say
F#m7 D A
You are worth it all
D F#m E D F#m E
You are worth it all, You are worth it all
D F#m E D F#m E
You are worth it all, You are worth it all
Strumming Suggestion: Full, confident strums with the basic Down - Down-Up - Up-Down-Up pattern. Emphasize the downbeats. The repeated "You are worth it all" sections should be sung and played with full heart and power.
Tip: Listen to how Crowder builds energy into this section. Your strumming should match that drive.

Bridge: The Heavenly Vision

The bridge offers a picture of heavenly worship and provides a significant build-up to the final choruses. The chord voicings here are crucial for its ascending feel.
Chords: D A/C# E F#m (for the initial lines), then D A/C# E F#m, and finally D D/F# A/C# E A/C# E/G# D F#m E for the "All the saints cry holy" section.

Lyrics & Chords:
D A/C#
When I'm there in Your glorious presence
E F#m
Ev'ry knee is bowed before You
D A/C#
Hear the sound of heaven singing
E F#m
You are worth it all
D A/C#
All the saints cry holy holy
E F#m
Angels singing worthy worthy
D D/F# A/C#
Forever I will shout Your praises
E A/C#
You are worth it all
E/G# D F#m E
You are worth it all
D F#m E
You are worth it all
Strumming Suggestion: Start with a building intensity. The first few lines can be slightly more subdued than the chorus but with a clear, driving rhythm. As you move into "All the saints cry holy holy," unleash your most powerful strumming. These lines often feature a slight rhythm change or increase in speed, matching the lyrical imagery of heavenly praise. The D/F# and A/C# and E/G# create powerful bass runs; let them ring out.

Ending: Final Declaration

The song often fades or resolves powerfully, reiterating the core message.
Chords: F#m7 D A (repeated)

Strumming Suggestion: You can either fade out softly with gentle strums on these chords, returning to the intro's intimacy, or end with a final, strong resolve on the last A major chord.

Adding Layers: Beyond Basic Strumming

Once you're comfortable with the chords and basic strumming, consider these elements to elevate your performance:

Fingerstyle Intro/Verses: Instead of strumming, try fingerpicking the arpeggios of the F#m7, D2, and A chords in the intro and verses. This creates an even more intimate and delicate feel, often preferred for quieter moments in worship. For F#m7, pick the low E, D, G, and B strings. For D2, pick D, G, B, and high E strings.
Lead Lines & Fills: If you're playing with other musicians, a second guitar could add simple, melodic lead lines or fills, especially during the intro or between vocal phrases in the verses. These should complement, not distract from, the main melody.
Vocal Dynamics: Your playing should support the vocals. When you sing softly, your guitar should follow. When you belt out the chorus, your strumming should empower that. Practice singing and playing together, paying attention to this interplay.
Tempo Variation: While keeping a consistent tempo is important, slight, intentional tempo shifts can add drama. A very subtle slowing before a big chorus, or a slight push during an intense bridge, can be impactful. Use a metronome in practice, but don't be afraid to let the song breathe in performance.

Common Pitfalls & How to Overcome Them

Learning any new song comes with its challenges. "Worth It All" is no exception, but recognizing common hurdles can help you overcome them faster.

Chord Switching Speed:

Pitfall: You can play the chords individually, but transitioning quickly between F#m7, D2, and A feels clunky.
Solution: Practice switching just two chords back and forth slowly (e.g., F#m7 to D2, then D2 to F#m7). Don't strum; just focus on clean finger placement. Gradually increase speed. Only add strumming once the transitions are smooth.

Maintaining Consistent Rhythm:

Pitfall: Your strumming speeds up or slows down unintentionally, especially during chord changes.
Solution: Use a metronome. Start at a slow tempo (e.g., 60-70 BPM) and play the entire song through. Gradually increase the BPM as you become more comfortable. This builds a strong internal rhythm.

Flat Dynamics:

Pitfall: The entire song sounds the same volume and intensity, lacking emotional depth.
Solution: Actively practice the dynamic shifts. Play the verses as quietly as possible, then explode into the chorus. Record yourself and listen back critically. Where can you pull back? Where can you push forward? Exaggerate the dynamics in practice to make them natural in performance.

Open Chords vs. Barre Chords:

Pitfall: Struggling with the F#m7 barre chord or the slash chords like A/C#.
Solution: For F#m7, consider the open voicing option if a full barre chord is too challenging initially. For slash chords, focus on getting the bass note clear first, then add the rest of the chord. Patience and consistent practice are key to building finger strength for barre chords.

Practice Smart, Play Better

Effective practice isn't just about repetition; it's about focused effort.

Break it Down: Don't try to play the whole song perfectly from day one. Master individual chords, then chord transitions, then sections (intro, verse, chorus).
Slow and Steady: Always start practicing new sections or transitions at a slower tempo than you think you need. Speed will come naturally as accuracy improves.
Listen Actively: Play along with the original David Crowder Band recording. Pay attention to the nuances: where the guitar is louder or softer, how the rhythm changes, and any subtle fills.
Record Yourself: It might feel awkward, but recording your practice sessions is incredibly insightful. You’ll hear things you miss while playing, allowing you to identify areas for improvement in rhythm, clarity, and dynamics.
Consistency Over Duration: 20-30 minutes of focused practice daily is far more effective than one long, infrequent session.
Warm-Up: Before diving into complex chord changes, do some finger stretches and play a few simple scales or chord progressions to warm up your hands.

Your Journey to Worth It All

Learning "Worth It All" is a rewarding experience, offering both musical skill development and a profound connection to its message. It's a song that calls for authenticity and feeling, so let your playing reflect the heart of the lyrics.
Remember, every great performance starts with consistent, mindful practice. Take your time, celebrate small victories, and don't be afraid to experiment with the dynamics and feel. Before you know it, you'll be leading others in this powerful declaration, or simply enjoying the rich satisfaction of playing such a meaningful song. Keep strumming, keep worshiping, and may your playing be truly "Worth It All."