Song Tabs

 About the Original
This classic country ballad by Hank Williams is known for its slow tempo, emotional delivery, and simple, heartfelt arrangement. The original version highlights expressive singing and gentle accompaniment, making it approachable for beginner guitarists.

How to Play
The entire song uses just three basic chords: G, C, and D. These are among the first chords most beginners learn and can be played using open chord shapes.

Strumming Pattern
Aim for a slow, steady strum to capture the song’s melancholic mood.
A common pattern is down-down-up-up-down-up per measure. For a more authentic country feel, you can use a simple down-down-down-down or alternate bass note strum (striking the root note on the first beat, then the rest of the chord).

Chord Transitions
Practice moving smoothly between G, C, and D.

• The verses often linger on G, with quick changes to D and C.
• Use the instrumental sections to practice chord changes at tempo.
• When you encounter [G][G][D][G], keep your fingers close to the fretboard to minimize movement.

Tips for Beginners

• Keep your strums soft and even.
• Listen to the original recording to match the feel.
• If chord changes are difficult, slow down and focus on accuracy before increasing speed.

Take your time and let the song’s emotion guide your playing.