Song Tabs

 Originally by Creedence Clearwater Revival, "Bad Moon Rising" is a classic rock song known for its upbeat tempo and catchy melody. The song’s straightforward structure and simple chords make it a popular choice for beginner guitarists.

Chords and Structure

The entire song uses just three major chords: D, A, and G. These are among the first chords most beginners learn, and they are played in open position.

• D major
• A major
• G major

The chord progression is consistent throughout verses, chorus, and instrumental breaks, making it easy to memorize.

Strumming Pattern

A common strumming pattern for this song is:

D D U U D U

(Down, Down, Up, Up, Down, Up)

Keep the strumming light and bouncy to match the song’s energetic feel. Practice slowly at first, then increase speed as you get comfortable.

Tips for Beginners

• Practice switching between D, A, and G smoothly. Try pausing between chord changes if needed, then gradually reduce the pauses as you improve.
• For easier transitions from G to D, anchor your ring finger on the B string (third fret) if you use the common G finger placement.
• Mute unnecessary strings for cleaner sound, especially when playing A and D chords.
• Listen to the original recording to match the tempo and feel.

With practice, you'll be able to play along with the whole song confidently!