C
D
G
D7
Em
Am
All That Heaven Will Allow
Bruce Springsteen
Bruce Springsteen’s original version of "All That Heaven Will Allow" appears on his 1987 album "Tunnel of Love." The song features a gentle, upbeat feel with a folk-rock flavor, making it approachable for beginner guitarists.
Chords and Capo
The song uses open chords: G, C, D, D7, Em, and Am. These are all standard beginner chords and do not require a capo. Make sure you are comfortable transitioning between these chord shapes before playing.
Strumming Pattern
Keep the strumming light and steady to match the song’s relaxed vibe. A simple pattern like down, down-up, up-down-up works well (D, D-U, U-D-U). Focus on keeping your wrist loose and the rhythm even. Try muting the strings slightly with your palm for a softer sound, especially during verses.
Chord Transitions
Pay attention to the transitions between G and C, and C and D, as these happen frequently. Practice switching between these pairs smoothly. For D7, use your ring finger to pivot from the C chord shape, minimizing finger movement.
Techniques and Tips
Try accenting the first strum of each bar to emphasize the groove. If you struggle with the D7, spend extra time practicing its shape and transitions. Play along with the recording to get a sense of tempo and dynamics. Slow the tempo if needed until you feel confident.
Enjoy playing and focus on steady rhythm rather than speed—Springsteen’s style is all about feel and heart.
Intro
C D G C G D G
Verse 1I got a dollar in myG pocket,C there ain't a cloud up aG bove
D7 I got a picture in aG locket,C that says baby ID love you
Well if you didn't lookC then boys, then fellas don't go lookin'G now
Well here she comes aC walkin'D all that heaven will aG llowD7
Verse 2Say hey there misterG bouncer,C now all I want to do isG dance
D7 But I swear I left myG wallet,C back home in my workin'D pants
C'mon Slim slip meC in man, I'll make it up to you someG how
I can't be late I got aC dateD7 with all that heaven will aG llow
Verse 3Rain and storm andC dark skies, well now they don't mean aEm thing
If youC got a girl thatAm loves youD7 and who wants to wearG your ring
So c'mon misterC trouble, we'll make it through you someEm how
We'll fill this house with all theC loveD7 all that heaven will aG llow
InstrumentalC D G C G D7 G C D C G C D7 G
Verse 4Rain and storm andC dark skies, well now they don't mean aEm thing
If youC got a girl thatAm loves youD7 and who wants to wearG your ring
So c'mon misterC trouble, we'll make it through you someEm how
We'll fill this house with all theC loveD7 all that heaven will aG llow
Verse 5D7 Now some may want to dieG young man,C young and gloriousG ly
D7 Get it straight nowG mister,C hey buddy that ain'tD me
'Cause I got something on myC mind yeah, that sets me straight and walkin'G proud
And I want all theC timeD7 all that heaven will aG llow
OutroAnd I want all theC timeD7 all that heaven will aC llowG Am D G