Can't Keep It In - Cat Stevens | Song Tabs - Guitar Chord Sheets

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Can't Keep It In Cat Stevens

The original version of "Can't Keep It In" by Cat Stevens is upbeat and rhythmic, featuring bright acoustic guitar work that drives the song’s energetic feel. This arrangement captures that spirit, making it approachable for beginner guitarists.

Chords and Transitions

The main chords used are A, E, D, F#m, G#m, F#, F, G, and C. Most of these are open chords, except F#m, G#m, and F#, which are barre chords. Beginners may find F#m and G#m challenging; take time to practice switching in and out of these shapes smoothly.

Verses focus on A, E, and D, forming a simple progression. The chorus introduces F#m and G#m—try to anchor your index finger firmly when forming barre chords, and keep your thumb low on the neck for better reach and pressure.

Strumming Pattern

Aim for a steady, upbeat strumming pattern. A good starting point is:

Down-Down-Up-Up-Down-Up

Keep your wrist relaxed and accentuate the first down strum of each measure for a lively feel. Listen to the original track to match the energy and dynamics.

Tips for Beginners

Practice the chord sequence slowly, paying attention to clean transitions, especially into and out of barre chords. Use simple downstrums at first, then add upstrokes as you gain confidence. If barre chords are too difficult, play only the top three strings as partial chords to start.

Enjoy playing and let your enthusiasm for the song shine through!

A

E

D

F#m

G#m

F#

F

G

C

Intro

A E D E

Verse 1

Oh IA can't keep it in, I can't keep it and I'veE gotta let it out

I'veD got to show the world, world's got to see,E see all the love, love that's in me I said

A Why walk alone, why worry when it'sE warm over here

You've gotD so much to say, say what you mean,E mean what you're thinking and think anything ohA why

Chorus 1

Why must youF#m waste your life away? You've got toA live forE today, then let itG#m goF#

A Lover, I want to spend thisF#m time with you

There's nothingA I wouldn'tE do, if you let meG#m knowF# E

Verse 2

And IA can't keep it in, I can't hide it and IE can't lock it away

I'mD up for your love, love heats my blood,E blood spins my head and my head falls in love oh

Bridge

A E D E F G

Verse 3

No IC can't keep it in, I can't keep it and I'veG gotta let it out

I'veF gotta show the world, world's got to know,G know of the love, love that lies low so

C Why can't you say? If you know thenG why can't you say?

You've gotF too much deceit, deceit kills the light,G light needs to shine I saidD shine lightE shine lightA love

Chorus 2

That's no way toF#m live your life, You allow tooA much toE go by, and that won'tG#m doF#

A Lover, I want to have youF#m here by my side

Now don't youA run don'tE you hide, while I'm withG#m youF# E

Outro

And IA can't keep it in, I can't keep it and I'veE gotta let it out

I'veD got to show the world, world's got to see,E see all the love, love that's in me I saidA why walk alone

Now why worry when it'sE warm over here?

You've gotD so much to say, say what you mean,E mean what you're thinking and think anything why not?

A NowE why why not?D C E