"Peggy Sue" by Buddy Holly is a classic rock and roll song from the late 1950s. Its energetic, upbeat feel and simple chord structure make it a great choice for beginner guitarists.
Chords
The main chords used are A, D, and E, with a brief appearance of F in verses 3 and 5. These are open chords, except for F, which is a barre chord and may require practice for beginners.
Strumming Pattern
A common pattern is a steady down-up, down-up rhythm (1-2-3-4), matching the song's lively tempo. For a more authentic sound, use a straight eighth-note strum:
Down Down Up Down Up Down Up
Keep your strumming hand relaxed for the song's driving rhythm.
Chord Transitions
Most transitions are between A and D, which are close in position. Practice moving between these two smoothly. E appears at the end of each verse; prepare for this by pivoting your fingers from the A chord.
The F chord can be challenging. If the full barre chord is difficult, try playing a simplified version using just the top four strings.
Tips
**- Practice chord changes slowly, especially A to D and E.
- Stay light with your strumming hand for the bouncy feel.
- Count out loud to keep a consistent rhythm.
- For the instrumental section, continue the same strumming and chord patterns.**
With practice, you'll capture the joyful spirit of this rock and roll classic!
IntroA D A E
A D A E
Verse 1A If you knew,D Peggy Sue,A then you'dD know whyA I feel blue withoutD Peggy
My PeggyA SueD A
Oh well IE love you gal yes ID love you PeggyA SueD A E
Verse 2A Peggy Sue,D Peggy SueA Oh howD my heartA yearns for you ohD Peggy
My Pe-heggyA SueD A
Oh well IE love you gal yes ID love you PeggyA SueD A E
Verse 3A Peggy Sue, Peggy SueF Pretty pretty pretty prettyA Peggy Sue oh oh-hoD Peggy
My PeggyA SueD A
Oh well IE love you gal yes ID love you PeggyA SueD A E
Verse 4A I love you,D Peggy Sue,A with aD love soA rare and true oh-ohD Peggy
My PeggyA Sue ooh-ooh,D ooh-oohA hoo hoo-hoo
Well IE love you gal, ID want you PeggyA SueD A E
InstrumentalA D A D A D A
D D D A D A E E D D
A D A E
Verse 5A Peggy Sue, Peggy SueF Pretty pretty pretty prettyA Peggy Sue oh oh-hoD Peggy
My PeggyA SueD A
Oh well IE love you gal yes ID love you PeggyA SueD A E
OutroA I love you,D Peggy Sue,A with aD love soA rare and true oh-ohD Peggy
My PeggyA Sue ooh-oohD hu ha-A hu
Oh well IE love you gal, ID want you PeggyA SueD A
Oh well IE love you gal and ID want you PeggyA SueD A