"Lil Red Riding Hood" by Sam The Sham And The Pharaohs is a classic garage rock song from the 1960s. The original features a playful, slightly spooky vibe with a steady groove, which you can capture on guitar with a simple approach.
Chords and Progression
The chords used are Em, G, A, C, B7, D, and D7. All are open chords, making the song accessible for beginners.
Practice the B7 transition, as it is less common for beginners but essential for the song's feel.
Strumming Pattern
A basic down-down-up-up-down-up (D D U U D U) strumming pattern works well.
Keep your strumming hand relaxed and steady, aiming for a slightly percussive, "chugging" sound to match the original's groove.
For the intro and between verses, you can use simple downstrokes on Em to set the mood.
Tips for Beginners
- Practice changing between Em and B7, as this happens frequently. Try moving your index finger as a pivot between these chords.
- For the bridge, watch the quick changes between G, Em, A, and D/D7. Slow down and work on these transitions until you can do them smoothly.
- Use light palm muting on the verses for a more authentic sound. Rest your palm lightly on the strings near the bridge as you strum.
- Sing along if you can; the melody helps cue chord changes.
With practice, you’ll capture the fun, rhythmic feel of the original.
IntroEm Em Em Em
Verse 1Em Hey there Little RedG Riding Hood,A you sure are lookin' good
C You're everything aB7 big bad wolf couldEm wantB7
Em Little RedG Riding Hood,A I don't think little big girls should
C Go walkin' in theseB7 spooky old woods aEm loneB7
Bridge 1G What big eyes you have,Em the kind of eyes that drive wolves mad
SoA just to see that you don't get chased I think ID ought to walk with you for a ways
G What cool lips you have,Em they're sure to lure someone bad
So unA til you get to Grandma's place I think youD7 ought to walk with me and be safe
Verse 2Em I'm gonna keep myG sheep suit on,A til I'm sure that you've been shown
ThatC I can be trustedB7 walkin' with you aEm loneB7
Em Little RedG Riding Hood,A I'd like to hold you if I could
ButC you might think I'm aB7 big bad wolf so IEm won'tB7
Bridge 2G What a big heart I have,Em all the better to love you with
A Little Red Riding Hood,D even bad wolves can be good
G I'll try to keep satisfied,Em just to walk close by your side
A Maybe you'll see things my way beD7 fore we get to grandma's place
OutroEm Little RedG Riding Hood,A you sure are lookin' good
C You're everything aB7 big bad wolf couldEm wantB7
I meanEm baaaG A C baaaB7 Em