Song Tabs
Song Index Songs by Chords Guide to Guitar Chords About
EADGBE G
EADGBEXX D7
EADGBE C
EADGBE G7
Other songs by Jim Reeves
He'll Have To Go Jim Reeves

 About the Original

"He'll Have To Go" is a classic country ballad made famous by Jim Reeves in 1959. Known for its slow tempo and smooth crooning style, the song features simple chords and a relaxed rhythm, making it accessible for beginner guitarists.**

Playing Tips

Chords:
The song uses basic open chords: G, C, D7, and G7. These are all beginner-friendly. Practice switching between them, especially from G to D7 and G to G7, as these are common transitions throughout the song.

Strumming Pattern:
A gentle down-down-up-up-down-up pattern works well, but you can simplify to downstrokes only or a soft down-down-up-down if you’re just starting. Focus on keeping the rhythm smooth and relaxed to match the ballad feel.

Chord Transitions:

  • Practice moving from G to D7 as this happens at the end of almost every line.
  • The G to G7 to C sequence in the verse and bridge is a bit trickier. Keep your first finger anchored when moving between these chords to ease the transition.
  • For D7, use a light touch to avoid muting strings unintentionally.

General Tips:

  • Play slowly at first, singing or humming along to keep track of chord changes.
  • Listen to the original recording to get a feel for tempo and mood.
  • Use a capo if needed to match your vocal range, though the original key is G.

With practice, this song is a great introduction to classic country strumming and chord changes.

EADGBE G
EADGBEXX D7
EADGBE C
EADGBE G7
Intro
G D7 G D7
Verse 1
Put yourG sweet lips, a littleC closer, to theG phone
Let's pretend, that we're together, all aD7 lone
I'll tell theG man, to turn theG7 juke-box, way downC low
And you canG tell, your friend thereD7 with you, he'll have toG goD7
Verse 2
WhisperG to me, tell meC do, you love meG true
Or is he, holding you, the way ID7 do
Though love isG blind, make up yourG7 mind, I've got toC know
Should IG hang up, or will youD7 tell him, he'll have toG goG7
Bridge
You can'tC say the words I want to hear, while you'reG with, anotherG7 man
Do youC want me answer yes or no, darlingG I, will underD7 stand
 Verse 3
Put yourG sweet lips, a littleC closer, to theG phone
Let's pretend, that we're together, all aD7 lone
I'll tell theG man, to turn theG7 juke-box, way downC low
And you canG tell, your friend thereD7 with you, he'll have toG go
Other songs by Jim Reeves