The original version of "For Lovin' Me" by Peter, Paul & Mary is an acoustic folk classic, known for its simple melody and gentle, flowing rhythm. The song’s straightforward arrangement makes it accessible for beginners and a great exercise in basic chord transitions.
Chords and Transitions:
The song revolves mainly around D, D7, G, Em, and A chords, with a brief C in the outro. These are all open-position chords, well-suited for beginner guitarists. Transitioning between D and D7 is especially frequent; practice moving from D (xx0232) to D7 (xx0212) by pivoting your index finger, minimizing hand movement.
Strumming Pattern:
A folk-style down-down-up-up-down-up (D-D-U-U-D-U) strumming pattern fits well, but you can also keep it simple with steady downstrokes or a basic down-up pattern. Listen to the original for feel—aim for a relaxed, swinging motion.
Tips:
Keep your wrist loose for smoother strumming. When moving from G to Em, try using your ring finger as an anchor to speed up the transition. The tempo is moderate; don’t rush chord changes, and let each chord ring out clearly. Practice the intro/outro sequence separately, as it includes a quick C-G switch at the end.
With practice, this song is a rewarding addition to any beginner’s repertoire!