How to Play "If I Fell" by The Beatles on Guitar
"If I Fell" is a gentle ballad from The Beatles' early period, known for its rich harmonies and delicate feel. The original features acoustic guitar accompaniment, making it approachable for beginners.
Chord Shapes and Transitions
The song uses mostly open and barre chords:
C, C#m, Dm, Dm7, Em, F, Fm, G, G7, Gm, B, G#m
Take extra time practicing transitions, especially between C#m and C, and moving to Fm and Gm, which may be challenging for beginners.
Strumming Pattern
Keep the strumming light and relaxed.
A basic pattern for verses is
Down – down-up – up-down-up
This gives a gentle, flowing rhythm fitting the ballad style.
Try muting the strings slightly with your palm for a softer sound, especially during the intro and verses.
Tips for Beginners
- Practice switching between Dm, Dm7, and Em slowly until you're comfortable.
- The barre chords (C#m, Fm, Gm, G#m, B) may be tough; practice them separately if needed.
- Listen to the original recording to match the tempo and feel.
- Use a capo if needed to make barre chords easier, but it may change the key.
With patience and steady practice, you'll capture the gentle mood of the song.
IntroIf IC#m fell in love with you, would youC promise to be true
AndB help meG#m understand
'Cause I'veC#m been in love before, and IC found that love was more
ThanDm just holdingG hands
Verse 1If IC giveDm myEm heart toDm7 you
I mustG beDm7 sure from theC veryDm start thatEm youDm7
Would loveG meF more thanC herFm G7
Verse 2If IC trustDm inEm you ohDm7 please
Don't runG andDm7 hide if IC loveDm youEm too ohDm7 please
Don't hurtG myF pride likeGm her
'Cause I couldn't stand theF pain
AndFm I would be sad if our newC love was inG7 vain
Verse 3So IC hopeDm youEm see thatDm7 I
Would loveG toDm7 love youC andDm thatEm she willDm7 cry
When sheG learnsF we areGm two
'Cause I couldn't stand theF pain
AndFm I would be sad if our newC love was inG7 vain
OutroSo IC hopeDm youEm see thatDm7 I
Would loveG toDm7 love youC andDm thatEm she willDm7 cry
WhenG sheF learns we areC two
If IFm fell in love withC you