Carl Perkins' "Blue Suede Shoes" is a classic rock and roll song with a strong rhythm and simple, catchy progression. The original version is driven by energetic guitar playing, making it ideal for beginners to practice basic chord changes and rhythm.
## Chords
The song uses the chords A, A7, D7, D, and E. These are basic open chords, perfect for beginners. Practice switching smoothly between A and A7, as well as between D7 and E, as these transitions happen quickly throughout the verses.
## Strumming Pattern
For an authentic feel, use a steady, driving downstroke strumming pattern with a bit of swing. Try:
Down, Down-Up, Down, Down-Up
Keep your strumming hand moving in a relaxed, consistent motion. Emphasize the first beat of each measure for a strong rockabilly groove.
## Techniques and Tips
- Start slowly and focus on clean chord changes. If you're struggling with D7 or A7, practice those shapes separately.
- Listen to the song to match the energetic rhythm.
- During the instrumental sections, stick to the chord progression and maintain the same strumming.
- For the outro, switch to D when indicated, then return to A and E, following the same pattern.
With practice, you'll capture the lively spirit of "Blue Suede Shoes" and improve your confidence in basic guitar techniques.
Verse 1Well it'sA one for the money,A two for the show
A Three to get ready nowA7 go cat go butD7 don't you
Step on my blue suedeA shoes. You canE do anything but layD7 off of my blue suedeA shoes
Verse 2Well you canA knock me down,A step in my face
A Slander my name allA over the place
A Do anything that youA want to do, butA uh uh honey layA7 off of my shoes andD7 don't you
Step on my blue suedeA shoes. You canE do anything but layD7 off of my blue suedeA shoes
InstrumentalA A D7 A E D7 A
Verse 3Well you canA burn my house,A steal my car
A Drink my liquor from anA old fruit jar
A Do anything that youA want to do. ButA uh uh honey layA7 off of my shoes andD7 don't you
Step on my blue suedeA shoes. You canE do anything but layD7 off of my blue suedeA shoes
InstrumentalA A D7 A E D7 A
Verse 4Well it'sA one for the money,A two for the show
A Three to get ready nowA7 go cat go butD7 don't you
Step on my blue suedeA shoes. You canE do anything but layD7 off of my blue suedeA shoes
OutroWell it's blue blue, blue suede shoes. Blue blue, blue suede shoes
YeahD blue blue, blue suede shoes baby.A Blue blue, blue suede shoes
You canE do anything but layD7 off of my blue suedeA shoes