"Squeeze Box," originally by The Who, is a lively, country-tinged rock song built around simple chords and a catchy rhythm. The original version features acoustic guitar and accordion, giving it a lighthearted, bouncy feel.
Chords
The song uses only G, D, and C major chords, making it accessible for beginners. Practice switching smoothly between these chords.
Strumming Pattern
A good pattern is: Down-Down-Up-Up-Down-Up (D-D-U-U-D-U). Keep it steady and bouncy to match the playful energy of the song. Try muting the strings lightly with your palm for a percussive feel.
Chord Transitions
Most verses stay on G, with quick transitions to D and C in the chorus and bridge. Practice moving from G to D and then C. Use your ring finger as a pivot from G to C for smoother changes.
Tips
- Play all open chords for a bright sound.
- Keep your wrist relaxed for easier strumming.
- Repeat the chord progression during instrumental sections.
- Don’t rush; focus on timing and clean chord changes.
- Sing along to help keep track of changes.
With practice, you’ll capture the fun, rhythmic feel of the original.
IntroG D G D G D G D
G G G G G G
Verse 1G Mama's got a squeeze box she wears on herG chest
And whenG Daddy comesG home he neverG gets noG rest
'Cause she'sD playin' all night, and theC music's all right
D Mama's got a squeeze boxC Daddy never sleeps atG night
G G G G
Verse 2Well theG kids don't eat, and theG dog can'tG sleep
There's no esG cape from the music in theG whole damn street
'Cause she'sD playin' all night, and theC music's all right
D Mama's got a squeeze boxC Daddy never sleeps atG night
G G G G
BridgeShe goes in and out and in and out and in and out and in and out
She'sD playin' all night, and theC music's all right
D Mama's got a squeeze boxC Daddy never sleeps atG night
G G G G
Verse 3She goesG squeeze me, come on andG squeeze me
Come on andD tease me like you do, I'mC so in love with you
D Mama's got a squeeze boxC Daddy never sleeps atG night
InstrumentalG G G G D D C C D C G G
OutroShe goes in and out and in and out and in and out and in and out
'Cause she'sD playing all night, and theC music's all right
D Mama's got a squeeze boxC Daddy never sleeps atG night
C G C G C G