Queen's "Crazy Little Thing Called Love" is a rockabilly-inspired song, with a rhythm and style reminiscent of early Elvis Presley tunes. The original recording is driven by a light, percussive acoustic guitar rhythm, making it approachable and fun for beginners.
Chord Progression
The main chords used are D, G, C, Bb, E, A, and F. Most are open chords except Bb and F, which are barre chords. Beginners may find these two more challenging; practice forming the full barre or try simplified versions if needed.
Strumming Pattern
Aim for a swung, percussive strum — try a pattern like:
Down Down-Up-Up Down-Up
Keep it bouncy and loose, muting lightly with your palm after each strum for that classic rockabilly feel. Listen to the original to match the groove.
Chord Transitions
Focus on smooth transitions between D, G, and C, which occur frequently. For Bb, barre your first finger across the first fret, and for F, barre the first fret and form an E major shape underneath. Move efficiently by preparing your fingers early.
Tips
Count in 4/4 time. Practice the intro with repeated D chords to get the tempo. For the bridge, take it slow at first — the chords change more quickly, especially between Bb, E, and A. Use downstrokes for emphasis on the beat.
Enjoy playing and keep the strumming light and rhythmic for the best sound!
IntroD D D D
Verse 1ThisD thing, called love, IG just, can'tC handleG it.
ThisD thing, called love, IG must, getC round toG it I ain'tD ready.
Bb Crazy littleC thing calledD love.
Verse 2ThisD thing, called love, itG cries, in aC cradle allG night.
ItD swings, it jives,G shakes all over like aC jellyG fish I kindaD like it.
Bb Crazy littleC thing calledD love.
BridgeThere goes myG baby. SheC knows how to rock n'G roll. She drives meBb crazy.
She gives meE hot and cold fever then sheA leaves me in a cool cool sweat.
InstrumentalC G D G D A E E E E E E A
Verse 3I gotta beD cool, relax, getG hip, get onC myG tracks. Take aD back seat, hitchhike.
G Take a long ride on myC motorG bike until I'mD ready.Bb Crazy littleC thing calledD love.
Bridge 2D Bb D G D Bb Bb E A A F E A
C G D G D A E E E E E E A
Verse 4I gotta beD cool, relax, getG hip, get onC myG tracks.
Take aD back seat, hitch-hike. AndG take a long ride on myC motorG bike.
Until I'mD ready.Bb Crazy littleC thing calledD love.
Verse 5ThisD thing, called love, IG just, can'tC handleG it.
ThisD thing, called love, IG must, getC round toG it.
I ain'tD ready.Bb Crazy littleC thing calledD love.
OutroBb Crazy littleC thing calledD love.Bb Crazy littleC thing calledD love.
Crazy littleBb thing calledD love. Crazy littleBb thing calledD love.
Bb Crazy littleC thing calledD love. Crazy littleBb thing calledD love.