The original by The Supremes is a classic Motown hit with a steady, danceable groove. For guitarists, it translates well to a simple, soulful strumming style that captures the song's longing and rhythmic feel.
Chords and Transitions
The song uses easy open chords: C, G, Dm, Am, and F. If the F barre chord is tricky, try the simplified F (xx3211). Practice moving from Dm to Am and G, as these transitions are common throughout the song.
Strumming Pattern
A gentle, steady down-up strumming pattern works well. Try: Down–Down-Up–Up-Down-Up (D–D-U–U-D-U) for each measure. Keep your wrist loose and emphasize the beat to match the song's groove.
Tips for Beginners
1. Practice the chord changes slowly, especially between Dm, Am, and G.
2. For smoother transitions, keep your fingers close to the strings and anticipate the next shape.
3. If you struggle with F, play only the top four strings for a lighter sound.
Feel and Dynamics
Add dynamic variation by softening your strum during the verses and playing a bit louder in the chorus. This helps mirror the song's emotional build-up.
Keep practicing and focus on keeping your rhythm steady—this is key to capturing the Motown feel!
IntroC Baby baby. Baby don'tG leave me.
Oooh please don'tDm leave me, allAm by myG self.F
I've got thisC burnin' burnin' yearnin', feeling inG side me.
Oooh deep inDm side me, andAm it hurts soG bad.
Verse 1You came into myC heart. So tenderG ly.
With a burnin'Dm love, thatF stings like aG bee.F
Now that I surC render, so helplessG ly.
You now wannaDm leave.Am Oooh you wanna leaveG me.
ChorusF Ooh-oohC baby baby. Where did ourG love go?
Ooh don't youDm want me?Am Don't you want me noG more?F Oooh baby.
InstrumentalC C G G Dm Dm G F
Verse 2C Baby baby. Where did ourG love go?
And all yourDm promises,Am of a love foreverG more?
I've got thisC burnin' burnin' yearnin', feeling inG side me.
Oooh deep inDm side me,Am and it hurts soG bad.
BridgeBefore you won myC heart, you were a perfectG guy.
But now that youDm got me,Am you wanna leave me beG hind.
OutroOoohC baby baby. Baby don'tG leave me.
Ooh please don'tDm leave me,Am all by myG self.
F Ooh-ooh,C baby baby. Where did ourG love go?
Oooh don't youDm want me,Am don't you want me noG more.F Oooh baby.
EndingC C G G Dm Dm G C