Bob Seger's "Like A Rock" is a classic rock ballad known for its heartfelt lyrics and steady, anthemic feel. The original version features a full band with electric guitar, but it translates well to acoustic guitar, especially for beginners.
Chords and Progression
The song uses basic open chords: G, C, F, Em, Am, and D. The most challenging chord may be F; try the simplified F (xx3211) if full barre is too hard. All other chords are beginner-friendly.
Strumming Pattern
A steady, medium-tempo strumming pattern works well:
Down – Down – Up – Up – Down – Up
or
Down – Down – Down – Up – Down – Up
Keep your strums even, matching the song's steady, reflective mood. Practice slowly at first, focusing on keeping time.
Chord Transitions
Most chord changes happen at the start of a line. Practice moving between G, C, and F, as these transitions are frequent. For smoother changes, keep your fingers close to the fretboard and look ahead to the next chord.
Tips and Techniques
- Practice the F chord separately if needed.
- Use a capo if you want to better match the original key with your vocal range.
- Let chord transitions ring out for a full, resonant sound, especially at the end of verses and chorus.
With practice, you'll capture the song’s strong, nostalgic feel.
IntroG G G
Verse 1G Stood there boldly, sweatin' in the sun
C Felt like a million, felt like number one
F The height of summer, I'dC never felt that strong, like aG rock
Verse 2G I was eighteen, didn't have a care
C Workin' for peanuts, not a dime to spare
F But I was lean and,C solid everywhere. Like aG rock
Verse 3G My hands were steady, my eyes were clear and bright
C My walk had purpose, my steps were quick and light
F And I held firmly, toC what I felt was right. Like aG rock
ChorusG Like a rock, I was strong as I could be
Like aC rock, nothin' ever got to me
Like aF rock, I wasC something to see. Like aG rock
BridgeAnd I stoodEm arrow-straight, unencumbered by the weight of all theseG hustlers and their schemes
I stoodC proud I stood tall, high above it all
IAm still believed in myD dreams
InstrumentalG G C C F C G G
G G C C F C G G
Verse 4G Twenty years now. Where'd they go?
C Twenty years, I don't know
F I sit and I wonder sometiC mes, where they'veG gone
Verse 5G And sometimes late at night,C ohh when I'm bathed in the firelight
F The moon comes callin' aC ghostly white. And I reG call. I recall
Final ChorusG Like a rock, standin' arrow-straight
Like aC rock, chargin' from the gate
Like aF rock,C carryin' the weight. Like aG rock
G Ohh like a rock, the sun upon my skin
Like aC rock, hard against the wind
Like aF rock, IC see myself again. Like aG rock, ohh like a rock
OutroG G C C F C G G
G G C C F C G G
G G C C F C G