A
D
Em
G
Steel Rails
Alison Krauss
The original version of "Steel Rails" by Alison Krauss features a gentle, flowing country-folk feel, driven by clear acoustic guitar and a relaxed rhythm that matches the song’s train-travel theme.
Chords:
The song uses common open chords: D, Em, G, and A. These are beginner-friendly and don’t require barre chords.
Strumming Pattern:
For a classic country feel, try a simple down-down-up-up-down-up (D-D-U-U-D-U) pattern in 4/4 time. Keep your strumming hand moving in a gentle, steady motion to imitate the rolling rhythm of a train.
Chord Transitions:
Practice moving between D, Em, G, and A smoothly. The most frequent transitions are between G and A, and G and D. Pay special attention to switching from Em to G, as this may involve more finger movement. Use anchor fingers where possible, especially pivoting your ring finger on the B string for G and D.
Techniques:
Let chords ring out cleanly and avoid muting strings unintentionally. For added authenticity, lightly accent the first beat of each measure to echo the “chug” of a train.
Tips for Beginners:
Play slowly at first, focusing on clean chord changes. Hum or sing along to help memorize the chord order. The intro and instrumental sections follow the same chord progressions as the verses and chorus, making it easier to learn.
Enjoy capturing the gentle, rolling feel of this classic song!
Intro
A D D Em G A G D
Verse 1Steel rails, chasingEm sunshine round the bend
G Winding through theA trees like aG ribbon in theD wind
I don't mind, not knowingEm what lies down the track
Cause I'mG looking out aA head to keep myG mind from turningD back
Verse 2It's not the first time, I've found myEm self alone at dawn
If IG really had youA once then I'dG have you when I'mD gone
Whistle blowin', blowin'Em lonesome in my mind
G Calling me aA long that neverG ending metalD line
ChorusSteel rails, chasingEm sunshine round the bend
G Winding through theA trees like aG ribbon in theD wind
I don't mind, not knowingEm what lies down the track
Cause I'mG looking out aA head to keep myG mind from turningD back
InstrumentalD Em G A G D D Em G A G D
Verse 3Sun is shining, through theEm open boxcar door
G Lying in myA mind with theG things I've known beD fore
I've lost count, of theEm hours days and nights
TheG rhythm of theA rails keeps theG motion in myD mind
ChorusSteel rails, chasingEm sunshine round the bend
G Winding through theA trees like aG ribbon in theD wind
I don't mind, not knowingEm what lies down the track
Cause I'mG looking out aA head to keep myG mind from turningD back
OutroCause I'mEm looking out aA heaaaaaaad, to keep myG mind from turningD back