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About the Original Song
“Sneaky Snake” is a playful, country-folk song by Tom T. Hall, known for its simple melody and humorous lyrics. The original version has a bouncy, light-hearted feel, making it accessible and enjoyable for beginners to play and sing along with.
Chord Progression & Transitions
The song uses basic open chords: G, G7, C, A, D, and D7. If you are new to guitar, take a moment to practice switching between G and G7, as these transitions appear frequently (especially in the intro and verses). The chord changes are straightforward and follow a repetitive pattern, which helps with memorization and getting comfortable with chord shapes.
Strumming Pattern
A simple country strum works well: try a pattern like “down, down-up, up, down-up” (D, D-U, U, D-U). Alternatively, you can use a basic “down, up, down, up” pattern to maintain a steady rhythm. Keep your strumming relaxed for a fun feel. Accent the first beat of each measure to match the song’s playful bounce.
Tips for Beginners
— Practice G to G7 by only moving your index finger.
— When moving to A or D, lift and place fingers simultaneously.
— For D7, make sure to arch your fingers to let every string ring clearly.
— Sing along to help with timing and to make transitions smoother.
Final Advice
Take it slow at first, and focus on clean chord changes. As you get comfortable, add a slight swing to your strumming to capture the song’s cheerful style.