A
F
D
E7
E
Eb
Johnny B. Goode
Chuck Berry
Chuck Berry’s original version of "Johnny B. Goode" is famous for its energetic rock and roll style, featuring a driving rhythm and iconic guitar riffs. When playing it on guitar, especially as a beginner, focus on capturing the lively feel and steady tempo.
Chords & Progression
The song uses basic open chords: A, D, E, E7, F, and the occasional Eb. Most of the song follows a 12-bar blues progression in A, so practice switching smoothly between these chords.
The intro and bridge sections add variety with F and Eb chords. If barre chords are challenging, play simplified versions or focus on strumming the root notes.
Strumming Pattern
A straightforward down-up-down-up (D U D U) strumming works well. Try a shuffle rhythm: emphasize the down strums and slightly delay the up strums for a bluesy swing.
Count “1 and 2 and 3 and 4 and,” accenting the ‘1’ and ‘3’ beats. Keep your wrist loose for a relaxed, rhythmic feel.
Chord Transitions & Tips
Practice moving between A–D–E/E7 smoothly, since these are the core changes. For E7, just lift your ring finger off the D string from the E chord.
If F and Eb barre chords are difficult, play the top four strings only, or substitute with easier versions until you’re comfortable.
Start slow, focus on timing, and gradually increase speed as you gain confidence.
Intro
A A A
F F F
F F F
F F F A
D A E7 E A
Verse 1Deep down Louisiana close to New Orleans, way back up in the woods among the evergreens
ThereD stood a log cabin made of earth and wood, whereA lived a country boy named Johnny B. Goode
WhoE never ever learned to read orE7 write so well but he couldA play the guitar just like a ringing a bell
ChorusGo-go,A go Johnny go, goA
Go Johnny goD go, Go Johnny goA go
Go Johnny goE go,E7 Johnny B.A Goode
Verse 2He used to carry his guitar in a gunny sack, go sit beneath the tree by the railroad track
Oh theD engineers would see him sitting in the shade,A strumming with the rhythm that the drivers made
E People passing by they wouldE7 stop and say, "OhA my that little country boy could play"
ChorusGo-go,A go Johnny go, goA
Go Johnny goD go, Go Johnny goA go
Go Johnny goE go,E7 Johnny B.A Goode
BridgeF F F F
D A
E Eb A
F F
D A
E Eb A
Verse 3A His mother told him "Someday you will be a man, and you will be the leader of a big old band
D Many people coming from miles around, toA hear you play your music when the sun go down
E Maybe someday your name willE7 be in lights saying 'A Johnny B. Goode tonight'"
ChorusGo-go, go Johnny goA
Go go go Johnny goA
Go goD go Johnny go, Go goA go Johnny go
E Go,E7 Johnny B.A GoodeA A A E7 A