Song Index Songs by Chords Guide to Guitar Chords About
I Can't Help Myself (Sugar Pie, Honey Bunch) The Four Tops

 The Four Tops' original "I Can't Help Myself" is a classic Motown hit known for its infectious groove and energetic delivery. While the original features a full band and vibrant production, this ChordPro arrangement makes it accessible for solo performance on guitar.


Chords and Progression

The song uses only five chords: C, G, Dm, F, and G.
All are common open chords, making this song beginner-friendly. Practice switching smoothly between C, G, Dm, and F—especially F, which can be tricky for beginners. Consider using the Fmaj7 shape if full F is challenging.


Strumming Pattern

A steady, upbeat Motown feel works best.
Try a simple down-up strum: D DU UDU (Down, Down-Up, Up-Down-Up) for each measure.
Emphasize the backbeat (2 and 4) to capture the song's groove. For extra authenticity, mute the strings slightly with your palm for a percussive effect.


Transitions and Tips

Many lines end on G before returning to C—practice this transition.
For the instrumental and outro, you can add dynamics by strumming softer or louder, or using single downstrokes.

Keep your fretting hand relaxed, and focus on clean chord changes. Singing along helps with timing and memorization.


Enjoy this upbeat classic—perfect for singalongs and developing your rhythm skills!

EADGBE C
EADGBE G
EADGBEXX Dm
EADGBE F
Intro
C C C C C C
Verse 1
C Ooooh Sugar Pie Honey Bunch, you know thatG I love you
I can'tDm help myself, I love you andF nobody elseG
Verse 2
C In and out my life, you come and youG go
Leaving just yourDm picture behind, and I kissed it aF thousand timesG
C When you snap your finger, or wink your eye I come aG running to you
I'm tied to yourDm apron strings, and there's nothing thatF I can doG
Instrumental
C C G G
Can'tDm help myself, noooo I can'tF help myselfG
Verse 3
C Sugar Pie Honey Bunch, I'm weaker than aG man should be
I can'tDm help myself, I'm a fool inF love you seeG
WannaC tell you I don't love, you tell you that we're through,G and I've tried
But every time IDm see your face, I get all chokedF up insideG
Verse 4
C When I call your name, girl it starts the flame, burning in my heart
Tearin' it all apart, no matter how I try, my love I cannot hide 'cause
Sugar Pie Honey Bunch, you know that I'mG weak for you
Can'tDm help myself, I love you andF nobody elseG
Outro
C Sugar Pie Honey Bunch, do anything youG ask me to
Can'tDm help myself, I want you andF nobody elseG
C Sugar Pie Honey Bunch, you know thatG I love you
Can'tDm help myself, no I can'tF help myselfG
C Sugar Pie Honey Bunch, you know that I'mG weak for you
Can'tDm help myself, I love you andF nobody elseG C