D
G
A7
A
The Midnight Special
Creedence Clearwater Revival
Creedence Clearwater Revival’s version of “The Midnight Special” is an upbeat roots-rock adaptation of a traditional folk song. Their arrangement is lively and rhythmic, making it accessible and fun for guitarists of all levels.
## Chords
The song uses three open chords: D, G, and A7. These are among the easiest for beginners. Practice switching between them smoothly, especially D to G and D to A7, as these transitions happen frequently.
## Strumming Pattern
A simple and effective strumming pattern is: down-down-up-up-down-up (D-D-U-U-D-U). This gives a bouncy, folk-rock feel that fits the song. Beginners can start with steady downstrokes to get comfortable, then add the upstrokes as confidence grows.
## Tips for Playing
- Keep your strumming hand relaxed to maintain the groove.
- Count out loud if you struggle with rhythm: “1-2-and-and-4-and.”
- For the D to G transition, pivot your ring finger if possible to speed up movement.
- A7 is played with just two fingers, making it quick to move to and from D.
- Try palm muting (lightly resting the edge of your hand near the bridge) for a percussive sound, especially during verses.
Play along with the original recording to match tempo and feel. Take it slow at first, and enjoy the classic singalong chorus!
Intro
D
Wellllll you wake up in the mornin',G you hear the work bell ring.D
And they march you to the table,A7 you see the same old thang.D
Ain't no food upon the table,G and no fork up in the pan.D
But you'd better not complain boy,A7 you'll get in trouble with the ma-D an.D D
ChorusLet the midnightG special, shine the light onD me.
Let the midnightA7 special, shine the light onD me.
Let the midnightG special, shine the light onD me.
Let the midnightA7 special, shine the ever-lovin' light onD me.
Verse 1Yonder come MissG Rosie, how in the world did youD know?
By the way she wears herA7 apron, and the clothes sheD wore.
Umbrella on herG shoulder, piece of paper in herD hand.
She come to see theA7 gov'nor. She want to free herD man.
ChorusLet the midnightG special, shine the light onD me.
Let the midnightA7 special, shine the light onD me.
Let the midnightG special, shine the light onD me.
Let the midnightA7 special, shine the ever-lovin' light onD me.
Verse 2If you're ever inG Houston, oh you'd better doD right.
You'd better notA7 gamble, and you'd better notD fight.
Or the sheriff willG grab ya, and the boys'll bring youD down.
The next thing you knowA7 boy, oh you're prisonD bound.
ChorusWell let the midnightG special, shine the light onD me.
Let the midnightA7 special, shine the light onD me.
Let the midnightG special, shine the light onD me.
Let the midnightA7 special, shine the ever-lovin' light onD me.
OutroLet the midnightG special, shine the light onD me.
Let the midnightA7 special, shine the light onD me.
Let the midnightG special, shine the light onD me.
Let the midnightA7 special, shine the ever-lovin'A liii-iight,A7 on,G meee-D e.