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.
IntroA A A D D A A D
D A A D D A A D
Verse 1With 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 2D 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
ChorusHoldD 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 3See 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
ChorusHoldD myE hand
A HoldD myE hand
A HoldD myE handD
I wanna love you the best that, the best that IA canD
BridgeA D A D A D A D E D A A E D A A
Final ChorusHoldD 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
OutroThe best that IA canA D
The best that IA canA D
A A D