Song Tabs

 "San Antonio Rose" is a classic Western swing tune by Bob Wills, featuring a gentle, lilting melody that has made it a favorite for generations. The original version is often performed with a swing rhythm and rich instrumentation, but it translates well to solo acoustic guitar.

Chords & Transitions

The song uses basic open chords: D, G, A, A7, E7, and E. These are beginner-friendly shapes, and practicing smooth transitions between them is key. The only unusual move is the intro’s chromatic [G] to [G#] to [A], which you can play as simple barre chords or slide the G major shape up one fret at a time.

Strumming Pattern

Aim for a relaxed, swinging strum such as: down, down-up, up-down-up (D, D-U, U-D-U). Keep your wrist loose to mimic the song’s danceable feel. Accentuate beats two and four for a "boom-chick" swing touch.

Tips for Beginners

Practice switching between D-G-A and G-E7-A slowly at first. For the E7, use your index and middle finger for a quick change from E. In the bridge, move smoothly between A, E7, and E by keeping your index finger anchored on the first fret of the G string.

Listen to recordings to match the easygoing swing rhythm, and don’t rush – the song shines when played smoothly and steadily.