The Judds' "Love Can Build A Bridge" is a heartfelt country ballad, known for its uplifting message and smooth, flowing melody. The original version features gentle acoustic guitar, making it accessible for beginners.
Chords and Progression
This song uses basic open chords:
G, C, D, D7, Em, Am, F
If F is difficult, you can substitute Fmaj7 (xx3210) for an easier shape. Practice switching between C and F/Fmaj7, as this transition occurs often.
Strumming Pattern
Aim for a slow, steady 4/4 rhythm:
Down, down, up, up, down, up
Keep the strumming gentle; focus on consistency and even dynamics.
During the chorus, you can strum slightly louder for emphasis.
Chord Transitions & Techniques
- Practice moving between G, C, and D/D7 smoothly.
- For Em and Am, keep your fingers close to the fretboard to minimize movement.
- The F chord may require extra practice; use your index finger to press down two strings if playing the full barre is too hard.
Tips For Beginners
- Start slow; play along with a metronome or the original track.
- Use simple downstrokes if the full pattern is too tricky.
- Sing along to help memorize chord changes.
- Rehearse the intro and outro chord sequences separately, as they move quickly.
With practice, this song provides a great foundation for playing other country ballads.
IntroG F C G D
Verse 1I'd gladlyG walk across the desert, with noC shoes upon my feet
ToD share with you the last bite, ofC bread I had toG eatD
I wouldG swim out to save you, in yourEm sea of broken dreams
WhenC all your hopes areG sinking,D let me show you what love means
ChorusG Love can buildC aD bridge, beD7 tween your heart andG mineC D7
G Love can build aC bridge. Don't you think it'sG time?
D Don't you think it'sG time?F C G F
Verse 2I wouldG whisper love so loudly, everyC heart could understand
ThatD love and only love, canC join the tribes ofG manD
I wouldG give my heart's desire, soEm that you might see
TheC first step is toG realize, that itD all begins with you and me
ChorusG Love can buildC aD bridge, beD7 tween your heart andG mineC D7
G Love can build aC bridge. Don't you think it'sG time?
D Don't you think it'sG time?
BridgeEm When we stand together,D it's our finestG hour
We can doAm anything,G anything
C Keep believin'D in the power
Final ChorusG Love can buildC aD bridge, beD7 tween your heart andG mineC D
G Love can build aC bridge. Don't you think it'sG time?
D Don't you think it'sG time, yeahC yes ID do
G Love can buildC aD bridge, beD7 tween your heart andG mine
G Love can build aC bridge. Don't you think it'sG time?
OhD don't you think it'sG time?F C G F
Don't you think it'sG time?