The original "When You're Next To Me" by Mitch & Mickey (from "A Mighty Wind") is a gentle folk-style duet with simple, heartfelt strumming and an emphasis on melody and lyrics. The song's gentle pace and open chords make it approachable for beginners.
## Chords and Transitions
The song uses basic open chords: G, C, D, F, and Em. Spend time getting comfortable moving between G, C, and D, as these chords form the backbone throughout. The F chord appears briefly; beginners may substitute Fmaj7 for an easier grip if needed.
## Strumming Pattern
Start with a simple down-down-up-up-down-up pattern (D-D-U-U-D-U) for each measure. On slower sections, use soft, even downstrokes for a gentler feel. Focus on keeping your rhythm steady and relaxed.
## Tips for Beginners
Practice chord changes slowly, especially between C and G, and G to D. For smoother transitions, watch for common finger positions between chords. In the bridge, moving from C to Em, try pivoting your index finger to minimize hand movement.
If the tempo is challenging, slow down and gradually increase speed as you gain confidence. For the instrumental section, continue the same strumming pattern to maintain consistency.
## Final Advice
Listen to the original track for reference. Let the lyrics guide your dynamics—play softer during verses and build slightly in the bridge. Enjoy the song’s warmth and simplicity as you play!
IntroG C G D G C G
C G C F C G C G D
Verse 1When I'mG sta-C a-G andingD next toG youC G
D There's aC song toG sing, I knowC everyG thing's feelingD right
When I'mG sta-C a-G andingD next toG youC G
D SteepleC bellsG ring, onlyC goodG things do ID see
When you're next toG meC G
Verse 2D When IG hol-C ol-G old yourD hand inG mineC G
D DifferentC worldG wakes, a newC morningG breaks with theD sun
When IG hol-C ol-G old yourD hand inG mineC G
D Children'sC dreams takeG flight, through aC star-litG night
That's what ID see, when you're next toG meC G
BridgeThisC love for you I'm feeling, has aEm power that isG healing
It canD mend the darkest hour, withG glor-or-Em iousD light
Verse 3When IG ta-C a-G aste yourD lips soG sweetC G
D I seeC beggarsG dine, and theC sands ofG time up andD stop
When IG ta-C a-G aste yourD lips soG sweetC G
D Black andC whiteG bend, everyC doveG lands at yourD feet
When you're next toG meC G
InstrumentalG C G C G C G D G
BridgeThisC love for you I'm feeling, has aEm power that isG healing
It canD mend the darkest hour, withG glor-or-Em iousD light
Verse 4When I'mG ly-C y-G yingD next toG youC G
D I feelC moonbeamsG burn I seeC rainbowsG turning toD gold
When I'mG ly-C y-G yingD next toG youC G
D I hearC angelsG play, I seeC sweeterG days, I seeC riversG wind through theC end ofG time
I seeC hatredG fall, from theC highestG hill, I seeC God's goodG grace
ShiningC in yourG eyes, that's what ID see
When you're next toG meC G D G