Song Index Songs by Chords Guide to Guitar Chords About
Hold My Hand Hootie And The Blowfish

 The original version of "Hold My Hand" is a mid-tempo, feel-good rock song with a jangly, open-chord acoustic guitar sound. It’s accessible for beginners and great for practicing basic chord changes.


Chords Used

A major, D major, and E major
All are open chords, making this song especially approachable for newer players.


Strumming Pattern

A simple down-down-up-up-down-up pattern (D-D-U-U-D-U) works well throughout. For absolute beginners, a steady downstroke pattern is also effective.
Focus on keeping a relaxed wrist and consistent rhythm.


Chord Transitions

  • Most transitions are between A and D, with E coming in for the pre-chorus and chorus.
  • Practice switching between A and D slowly at first, keeping fingers close to the fretboard.
  • For the E chord, ensure you use all six strings, giving a fuller sound in the chorus.

Tips for Beginners

  • Count the beats: Most lines get one bar per chord, so switch every four counts.
  • Mute the strings slightly with your palm for a percussive effect if desired.
  • Maintain a steady tempo – the song’s energy comes from its consistency.

With just three chords and a straightforward structure, this song is ideal for building confidence and playing along with the original recording.

EADGBEX A
EADGBEXX D
EADGBE E
Intro
A A A D D A A D
D A A D D A A D
Verse 1
With a littleA loveD , and someA tendernessD
We'llA walk upon theD water, we'llA rise above theD mist
With a littleA peaceD , and someA harmonyD
We'llA take the world toD gether, we'llA take 'em by theD hand
Pre-Chorus 1
'CauseE I've got aD hand forA you
E I wannaD run withA you
Verse 2
D YesterA dayD , I saw youA standing thereD
YourA head was down yourD eyes were red, noA comb had touched yourD hair
I said getA upD , and let meA see you smileD
We'llA take a walk toD gether,A walk the road aD while
Pre-Chorus 2
'CauseE I've got aD hand forA you
'CauseE I wannaD run withA you
Chorus
HoldD myE hand
A HoldD myE hand
A HoldD myE handD
I wanna love you the best that, the best that IA canA D A A D
A A D A A D
Verse 3
See I wasA wastedD , and I was aA wasting timeD
'Til IA thought about yourD problems, IA thought about yourD crimes
Then I stoodA upD , and then IA screamed aloudD
I don't wannaA be part of yourD problems, don't wannaA be part of yourD crowd
Pre-Chorus 3
'CauseE I've got aD hand forA you
'CauseE I wannaD run withA you
Chorus
HoldD myE hand
A HoldD myE hand
A HoldD myE handD
I wanna love you the best that, the best that IA canD
Bridge
A D A D A D A D E D A A E D A A
Final Chorus
HoldD myE hand
A HoldD myE hand
A HoldD myE handD
A HoldD myE hand
A HoldD myE hand
A HoldD myE handD
I wanna love you the best that, the best that IA can
Outro
The best that IA canA D
The best that IA canA D
A A D