Song Index Songs by Chords Guide to Guitar Chords About
Tennessee Waltz Patsy Cline

 "Tennessee Waltz" is a classic country waltz originally released in the late 1940s and famously covered by Patsy Cline. The song is known for its gentle, flowing style, making it ideal for beginner guitarists learning to accompany a waltz rhythm.

Chords and Progression

The song uses basic open chords: C, G, G7, F, Am, D7, C7, and E7. Practice switching smoothly between C, F, and G/G7, as these are the most frequent transitions. For F, use the simplified barre (mini-barre) shape if full barre is difficult.

Strumming Pattern

"Tennessee Waltz" is in 3/4 time (a waltz). Use a simple strumming pattern such as:

Down (bass note), Down-Up, Down-Up

Count: 1 (down) - 2 (down-up) - 3 (down-up). Focus on accenting the first beat. For example, on C: strum the root note (C) then the rest of the chord.

Tips for Beginners

**- Practice chord changes slowly, especially between C, F, and G7.

  • Keep your right hand moving gently for a flowing waltz feel.
  • If the F chord is challenging, use just the top four strings.
  • Try humming or singing softly while playing to help with timing.
  • Play along with a recording to get used to the song's pace and phrasing.**

With practice, you'll capture the song's gentle, nostalgic mood.

EADGBE C
EADGBE G
EADGBE C7
EADGBE F
EADGBEX Am
EADGBEXX D7
EADGBE G7
EADGBE E7
Intro
C G C
Verse 1
I wasC dancin', with my darlin', to theC7 TennesseeF Waltz
When anC old friend IAm happened toD7 seeG
IntroC duced him, to my darlin', andC7 while they wereF dancin'
MyC friend stole my sweetG7 heart, fromC me
Chorus
I remember theE7 night and theF TennesseeC Waltz
Now I know just how much, I haveD7 lostG
Yes IC lost my, little darlin', theC7 night they wereF playin'
TheC beautifulG7 TennesseeC Waltz
Instrumental
C C7 F C Am D7 G C C7 F C G7 C
Chorus
I remember thatE7 night and theF TennesseeC Waltz
Now I know, just how much, I haveD7 lostG
Yes IC lost my, little darlin', theC7 night they wereF playin'
TheC beautifulG7 TennesseeC Waltz
Instrumental
C C7 F C Am D7 G
Outro
Yes IC lost my little darlin' theC7 night they wereF playin'
TheC beautiful, theG wonderful, theC marvelous, theF glorious
TheC beautifulG7 TennesseeC Waltz