Your Cheatin' Heart - Hank Williams | Song Tabs - Guitar Chord Sheets

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Your Cheatin' Heart Hank Williams

Hank Williams' "Your Cheatin' Heart" is a classic example of early country music, characterized by its simple but expressive chord progressions and heartfelt lyrics. The original recording features a relaxed, swinging rhythm that is ideal for beginner guitarists to emulate.

Chords and Progression

The song uses basic open chords: C, F, G7, C7, D7, and Fm. Practice transitioning between C and F, as well as G7 and C, as these are frequent changes. The Fm chord can be played as a simplified barre chord (Fm: 133111) or as xx1111 for beginners.

Strumming Pattern

A gentle country swing strum works well: try a pattern of down, down-up, up-down-up for each measure. Focus on keeping a steady rhythm, accenting the first down strum of each bar. For a more authentic sound, palm mute lightly with your picking hand to soften the strums.

Chord Transitions and Tips

The song moves at a moderate pace. Practice the "C–C7–F–Fm–G7–C" sequence, as it repeats in the verses. Use your ring finger as an anchor point when moving between C, C7, and F. For G7, keep your transitions smooth by preparing your finger placement early.

Take your time with the F and Fm chords; if barre chords are difficult, substitute with easier versions as needed. Listen to the original recording for timing and phrasing.

Enjoy playing and let the relaxed country feel guide your tempo!

C

G7

F

C7

Fm

D7

Intro

C C C G⁷

G⁷ C

Verse 1

Your cheatin'C heart, will make youF weep.

You'll cry andG⁷ cry, and try toC sleep.

But sleep won't come, theC⁷ whole nightF through.Fm

Your cheatin'G⁷ heart, will tell onC you.C C⁷

Verse 2

When tears comeF down, like fallin'C rain.

You'll toss aD⁷ round, and call myG⁷ name.

You'll walk theC floorC⁷ , the way IF do.Fm

Your cheatin'G⁷ heart, will tell onC you.

Instrumental

C F F C

C D⁷ D⁷ G⁷

G⁷ C C F

F G⁷ G⁷ C

Verse 3

Your cheatin'C heart, will pine someF day.

And crave theG⁷ love, you threw aC way.

The time will come, whenC⁷ you'll beF blue.Fm

Your cheatin'G⁷ heart, will tell onC you.C C⁷

Verse 4

When tears comeF down, like fallingC rain.

You'll toss aD⁷ round, and call myG⁷ name.

You'll walk theC floorC⁷ , the way IF do.Fm

Your cheatin'G⁷ heart, will tell onC you.C C