About the Song
Originally recorded by Waylon Jennings and Willie Nelson, "Luckenbach Texas" is a classic country song with a laid-back, singalong feel. Its simple chord structure and moderate tempo make it a great choice for beginner guitarists.
Chords and Progression
The primary chords are G, C, D, D7, Am, and occasional G7. These are all open chords, standard for beginners. Practice switching smoothly between G, C, and D first, as these are used most often. D7 and G7 add a country feel—practice their finger positions separately before playing the whole song.
Strumming Pattern
A classic country strumming pattern works well: try D D U U D U (D=down, U=up). Start slowly, keeping a steady rhythm, and focus on even strums. For a more authentic feel, gently accent the second and fourth beats.
Tips for Beginners
- Pause briefly between sections to regroup if needed.
- For chord transitions, keep your fingers close to the strings to switch efficiently.
- Practice the intro and outro (single G and D chords) to get comfortable with starting and ending confidently.
- If you're struggling with G7 or D7, substitute with regular G or D until you're ready.
Enjoy the relaxed groove, and don't rush—it's about feeling the music!
IntroG
Verse 1The only two things inD life that make it worthG livin'
IsC guitars that tune, good andD7 firm, feelin'G women
C I don't need myAm name in the marqueeG lights
IC got my song, and ID7 got you with me toG night
C Maybe it'sG time we gotD back, to theD7 basics ofG love
ChorusLet's go toG Luckenbach Texas, Waylon and Willie and theC boys
This sucD cessful life we're livin's got usD7 feudin' like the Hatfields and McG Coys
Between Hank Williams pain songs,G7 Newberry's train songs andAm Blue Eyes Cryin' in theC Rain
Out inD Luckenbach Texas, ain't nobody feelin' noG pain
Verse 2SoG baby let's sell your diamond ring,Am buy some boots andD7 faded jeans andG go away
ThisG coat and tie is chokin me,C in your high soD7 ciety youG cry all day
G7 We've been so busy keepin' up with the Jones
C Four-car garage and wereAm still buildin' on
C Maybe it'sG time we gotD back, to theD7 basics ofG love
ChorusLet's go to Luckenbach Texas, Waylon and Willie and theC boys
This sucD cessful life we're livin's got usD7 feudin' like the Hatfields and McG Coys
Between Hank Williams pain songs,G7 Newberry's train songs andAm Blue Eyes Cryin' in theC Rain
Out inD Luckenbach Texas, ain't nobody feelin' noG pain
ChorusLet's go to Luckenbach Texas, Willie and Waylon and theC boys
This sucD cessful life we're livin's got usD7 feudin' like the Hatfields and McG Coys
Between Hank Williams pain songs,G7 Jerry Jeff's train songs andAm Blue Eyes Cryin' in theC Rain
Out inD Luckenbach Texas, ain't nobody feelin' noG pain
OutroG G G D D G