D
Em
G
A7
A
D7
Grandpa
The Judds
About the Original
The Judds’ “Grandpa (Tell Me 'Bout the Good Ol’ Days)” is a classic country ballad, originally performed with gentle acoustic guitar and rich vocal harmonies. Its slow tempo and heartfelt lyrics make it ideal for beginner guitarists learning to accompany singing.
Guitar Chords and Transitions
The song uses basic open chords: D, G, Em, A, A7, and D7. These are all beginner-friendly shapes. Pay attention to the transition between D and G, as well as from Em to D or G. Practice these switches slowly at first to build muscle memory.
Strumming Pattern Tips
The feel is gentle and slow. Try a simple down-down-up-up-down-up (DDUUDU) strumming pattern or just steady downstrokes to start. Focus on keeping your strumming relaxed and even. If you prefer fingerpicking, a light alternating bass and treble fingerstyle also fits well.
Techniques and Advice
When you see A7, you can leave your index finger on the D string while moving your other fingers, making the transition smoother from D. For D7, shift from D by lifting your middle finger and moving your ring finger down a string. Let the chords ring out and don’t rush; the song’s pace is slow and reflective.
Practice singing along once you’re comfortable with the chords. Enjoy capturing the song’s nostalgic mood and warmth.
Intro
D Em G
Em Em D
D A7 A D
Verse 1D Grandpa, tell me about theG good ol' days
Sometimes itD feels like, this world's goneA crazy
D Grandpa, take me back toG yesterday
When the line betweenD right and wrong,A7 didn't seem soD hazy
ChorusDid lovers reallyG fall in love to stay, and stand beside eachEm other come whatD may?
Was a promise reallyA7 something peopleA kept, not just something they wouldD say
Did families reallyG bow their heads to pray? Did daddy's reallyEm never go aD way?
But whoa whoaEm grandpa,A tell me bout theG good olD days
InstrumentalD Em G
Em Em D
D A7 A D
Verse 2D Grandpa, everything isG changing fast
We call itD progress, but I just don'tA know
AndD Grandpa, let's wander back inG to the past
Then paint me theD picture,A7 of long aD go
ChorusDid lovers reallyG fall in love to stay, and stand beside eachEm other come whatD may?
Was a promise reallyA7 something peopleA kept, not just something they wouldD say and then forD7 get?
Did families reallyG bow their heads to pray? Did daddy's reallyEm never go aD way?
But whoa whoaEm grandpa,A tell me bout theG good olD days
BridgeWhoa whoaEm grandpa,A tell me bout the good olD days
OutroD Em G
Em Em D
D A7 A D
Hmmmm-G mmmm. Hmmmm-D mmmm
D A7 D
Did families reallyG bow their heads to pray?
Did daddy's reallyEm never go aD way?
Whoa whoaEm grandpa,A tell me bout the good olD days