G
C
Cmaj7
D
Am
D7
Em
A7
A
Eighteen Wheels And A Dozen Roses
Kathy Mattea
by Kathy Mattea
About the Original Version
The original song is a gentle country ballad known for its warm storytelling and steady mid-tempo rhythm. Kathy Mattea’s version is relaxed, making it approachable for beginner guitarists.
Chord Tips
The song uses basic open chords: G, C, Cmaj7, D, D7, Em, Am, and A7. Practice the transitions between G and C, as well as C to Cmaj7 (simply lift your first finger from C). A7 and D7 are also beginner-friendly, so take time to familiarize your fingers with their shapes.
Strumming Pattern
Try a simple down-down-up-up-down-up (D-D-U-U-D-U) pattern in 4/4 time. This suits the country feel and keeps the rhythm steady. For even more simplicity, use all down strums, especially during verses.
Techniques and Transitions
For smooth chord changes, keep your fingers close to the strings and practice moving between G, C, and D as these are frequent. Watch for the quick switch from Em to A7 in the chorus; practice those two chords back-to-back. In the bridge and outro, follow the chords as written, keeping the tempo relaxed.
General Tips
Sing along or count out loud to maintain timing. Use a capo if needed to suit your vocal range. Play slowly at first, speeding up as you get comfortable. Focus on clean chord sounds and smooth transitions for the best result.
Intro
G G C G
G G C G
Verse 1Charlie's got aG gold watch.Cmaj7 Don't seem like a whole lot,
AfterD thirty years of drivin',C up and down the interG state.
But Charlie's had a good life, andCmaj7 Charlie's got a good wife.
AndAm after tonight she'll noC longer be countin' theD7 days.
ChorusEighteenC wheels, and a dozenG roses.
Ten moreEm miles, on hisA7 four dayD run.
A few moreC songs, from the all nightEm radioC .
Then he'llG spend the rest of hisC life with theD7 one that heG loves.
InterludeG G C G G
Verse 2They'll buy aG Winnebago. SetCmaj7 out to find America.
D Do a lot of catchin',C up, a little at aG time.
With pieces of the old dream, they'reCmaj7 gonna light the old flame.
Am Doin' what they please leavin'C every other reason beD7 hind.
ChorusEighteenC wheels, and a dozenG roses.
Ten moreEm miles, on hisA7 four dayD run.
A few moreC songs, from the all nightEm radioC .
Then he'llG spend the rest of hisC life with theD7 one that heG loves.
BridgeG C C Am C D
ChorusEighteenC wheels, and a dozenG roses.
Ten moreEm miles, on hisA7 four dayD run.
A few moreC songs, from the all nightEm radioC .
Then he'llG spend the rest of hisC life with theD7 one that heG loves.
OutroC G Em A D
C Em C G C D G