Song Index Songs by Chords Guide to Guitar Chords About
Tommy Can You Hear Me The Who

 Original Version Context
This song, from The Who’s rock opera "Tommy," is short and melodic with a bouncy, folk-inspired feel. The original version is gentle and rhythmic, making it approachable for beginners.


Chord Progression and Transitions

Chords Used:
G, C, F, Em, D
These are open-position chords, ideal for beginners. Practice switching smoothly between G and C, as this change repeats often.


Strumming Pattern

A simple down-up strumming pattern works well. Try:

Down, Down-Up, Down, Down-Up

Keep your wrist relaxed and strum lightly to match the song’s gentle mood. Each chord generally gets one or two bars. Listen to the song to feel the timing.


Tips for Beginners

  • Practice the G to C transition slowly; use fingers 2, 3, and 1 for G, then shift to C by moving fingers 1, 2, and 3 accordingly.
  • For F major, try the easy "mini F" (xx3211) if full barre F is difficult.
  • Em and D are straightforward, but ensure clear notes by curving your fingers.
  • Mute unused strings slightly with your palm or spare fingers to avoid buzzing.

Focus on keeping your strumming even and singing along if you can. The song repeats its progression, so once you master a verse, you can play the whole piece.

EADGBE G
EADGBE C
EADGBE F
EADGBE Em
EADGBEXX D
Intro
G C G G C G
Verse 1
Tommy can youC hearG me?C G Can you feel meC nearG you?C G
F Tommy can youF seeF me?Em Can I help toEm cheerEm you
OoohD Tommy, Tommy, Tommy, Tommy
Verse 2
G Tommy can youC hearG me?C G Can you feel meC nearG you?C G
F Tommy can youF seeF me?Em Can I help toEm cheerEm you
OoohD Tommy, Tommy, Tommy, Tommy
Verse 3
G Tommy can youC hearG me?C G Can you feel meC nearG you?C G
F Tommy can youF seeF me?Em Can I help toEm cheerEm you
OoohD Tommy, Tommy, Tommy, Tommy, Tommy, Tommy, Tommy, Tommy
Outro
D Tommy?D Tommy?D Tommy?