Song Tabs

 About the Original

"Running Scared" by Roy Orbison is known for its dramatic build and emotional delivery. The original recording features lush orchestration and a slow, haunting tempo, which is reflected in the chord choices and progression. Playing it on guitar captures the song’s tension and release, making it a rewarding piece for beginners to learn.

Strumming Pattern

Begin with a slow, steady downstroke pattern. For each chord, use a simple down-down-down-down rhythm. As you grow comfortable, add gentle upstrokes between the downs for a fuller sound. In the bridge and towards the end, you can gradually strum a bit harder to mirror the song’s emotional climax.

Chord Transitions

The song uses common open chords: G, Am, Bm, D7, C, D, and Em. The trickiest is Bm, which is typically played as a barre chord. Beginners struggling with Bm can use a simplified version: play the Bm7 (x20202) or use just the top three strings (xx4432). Practice switching between G and Am, and Am to Bm slowly at first.

Techniques and Tips

Keep your strumming soft for the verses to match the song’s mood. Focus on smooth, clean chord changes, especially in the bridge where the tempo can feel like it’s accelerating. Pay attention to dynamics—play more quietly at the start, increasing intensity for the dramatic ending.