The original Nazareth version of "Love Hurts" is a soft rock ballad known for its emotive vocals and simple, poignant instrumentation. The guitar arrangement is straightforward, making it accessible for beginners.
Chords and Progression
This song uses basic open chords: G, Em, C, D, D7, F, B7, and A/A7. B7 may be new to some beginners, but with practice it becomes manageable. The transition between G, Em, and C is frequent, so focus on keeping your fingers close to the fretboard to ease these changes. For F, try the easier "mini F" shape (xx3211) if the barre chord is too difficult.
Strumming Pattern
A gentle strumming pattern suits the ballad style. Try Down-Down-Up-Up-Down-Up (D-D-U-U-D-U) for each bar, or simply Downstrokes for a more dramatic, slower feel in the verses. Listen to the original to match the song's emotional dynamics—softer during verses, fuller in the chorus ("Love hurts, ooh ooh...").
Tips for Beginners
- Practice the chord changes slowly, especially moving to and from B7 and F.
- Keep your strumming hand relaxed for a smooth rhythm.
- Mute unused strings with your palm or unused fingers to avoid unwanted noise.
- For extra feeling, let some chords ring longer, especially at the end of lines.
With practice, you'll capture the heartfelt mood of the original.