"I Got You Babe" is a classic pop duet released in 1965 by Sonny & Cher, known for its simple, catchy melody and feel-good lyrics. The original features gentle acoustic guitar strumming, making it approachable for beginners.
Chords and Transitions
The song primarily uses open chords: D, G, C, A, Asus4, Em, and a single Bb.
- Practice switching between D and G, as these transitions occur frequently.
- The Asus4 is a quick embellishment—play A major, then briefly add your pinky to the B string, 3rd fret for Asus4, then return to A.
- The Bb in the bridge is the only barre chord; if difficult, you can skip or replace it with an easier chord (like Bm or D).
Strumming Pattern
A simple down-down-up-up-down-up (D-D-U-U-D-U) pattern fits well, but even just steady downstrums work for a beginner.
- Stay relaxed and keep the strumming even, matching the song’s gentle, lilting feel.
- Use lighter dynamics for verses and slightly louder for choruses.
General Tips
Count the beats—most chords last one or two measures.
Practice looping the intro (D–G) to get comfortable.
Take your time on the bridge, as it introduces Em and A without G/C.
Sing along if possible; it helps with timing and memorization.
Enjoy playing this timeless, easygoing song!
IntroD G D G
Verse 1TheyD say we're young andG we don't know,D won't find out unG til weC growA Asus4 A
WellD I don't know, ifG all that's true, 'causeD you got me andG babyC I gotA youAsus4 A
ChorusD Babe,G
I gotD you babe,G I gotD you babeG
Verse 2TheyD say our love won'tG pay the rent. BeD fore it's earned ourG money'sC all beenA spentAsus4 A
ID guess that's so we don'tG have a pot, but atD least I'm sure ofG all theC things weA gotAsus4 A
ChorusD Babe,G
I gotD you babe,G I got youD babeD
BridgeI gotEm flowers in theA spring. IEm got you to wear myA ring
And when I'mD sad, you're aG clown, and if I getD scared, you're always aA roundBb
Verse 3SoD let them say yourG hair's too long, causeD I don't care, withG you IC can't goA wrongAsus4 A
ThenD put your littleG hand in mine.D There ain't no hill orG mountainC we can'tA climbAsus4 A
ChorusD Babe,G I gotD you babe,G I gotD you babeG D A
OutroD I got you, toG hold my hand,D I got you toA understand
D I got you, toG walk with me,D I got you toA talk with me
D I got you, toG kiss goodnight,D I got you toA hold me tight
D I got you,G I won't let go,D I got you toA love me so
D G D A I got youG babeD G
I got youD babeA I got youD babeG
I got youD babeA I got youD babeG
I got youD babeA I got youD babeG D A
I got youD babe