by The Rolling Stones
The Original Song
This Rolling Stones classic is known for its anthemic singalong choruses and a laid-back, acoustic-driven feel. The original version uses a mix of acoustic and electric guitars, but it translates very well to simple acoustic strumming, making it accessible for beginners.
Chords and Structure
The song primarily uses G and C chords throughout the verses and chorus, with occasional A and D chords in the bridge. These are all open chords, which are perfect for beginners.
Strumming Pattern
A simple, steady strumming pattern works best. Try Down-Down-Up-Up-Down-Up for each chord. Focus on keeping a relaxed, even rhythm. For the chorus, you can increase the energy by strumming a bit louder.
Chord Transitions
Practice switching smoothly between G and C, as this transition happens frequently. Place your fingers down together for each chord. For G to C, keep your ring finger as an anchor by shifting it from the 3rd fret (G) to the 3rd fret (C) on a different string.
Techniques & Tips
1. Take the instrumental sections as opportunities to practice your chord changes without worrying about lyrics.
2. During the bridge, watch for the quick changes between A, C, and D. Slow it down at first if needed.
3. Sing along to help internalize the rhythm and chord changes.
Summary
Keep it relaxed, focus on clean chord changes, and enjoy playing along to this timeless singalong tune.
Verse 1 (Choir)IG saw her today at the reC ception
AG glass of wine in herC hand
IG knew she would meet her conC nection
At herG feet was a footlooseC man
ChorusNow youG can't always get what youC want
YouG can't always get what youC want
YouG can't always get what youC want
But if youA try sometime,C you'll find, you get what youG need
InstrumentalG C G C G C G C
Verse 2IG saw her today at the reC ception
AG glass of wine in herC hand
IG knew she was gonna meet her conC nection
At herG feet was a footlooseC man
ChorusYouG can't always get what youC want
YouG can't always get what youC want
YouG can't always get what youC want
But if youA try sometimes
Well you mightC find, you get what youG need
Verse 3And IG went down to the demonC stration
ToG get my fair share of aC buse
Singin'G we're gonna vent our frusC tration
If weG don't we're gonna blow a 50-ampC fuse
ChorusYouG can't always get what youC want
YouG can't always get what youC want
YouG can't always get what youC want
But if youA try sometimes
Well youC just might find, you get what youG need
Verse 4IG went down to the ChelseaC drugstore
ToG get your prescriptionC filled
I wasG standing in line with Mr.C Jimmy
AndG man did he look prettyC ill
We deG cided that we would have aC soda
MyG favorite flavor cherryC red
IG sung my song to Mr.C Jimmy
Yeah and heG said one word to me and that wasC dead
ChorusYouG can't always get what youC want
YouG can't always get what youC want
YouG can't always get what youC want
But if youA try sometimes you just mightC find
You get what youG need
BridgeA A C C C D G C G C G C A C
Verse 5IG saw her today at the reC ception
In herG glass was a bleedingC man
She wasG practiced at the art of deC ception
Well I couldG tell by her blood-stainedC hands
Final ChorusYouG can't always get what youC want
YouG can't always get what youC want
YouG can't always get what youC want
But if youA try sometime you just might find
YouC just might find you get what youG need
OutroYouG can't always get what youC want
No no baby youG can't always get what youC want
YouG can't always get what youC want
But if youA try sometime you just might find
YouC just might find that you get what youG need
Outro InstrumentalG C G C G C G C G C G C G C G C G C G C