D
G
E7
A
A7
My Heroes Have Always Been Cowboys
Willie Nelson
Willie Nelson's "My Heroes Have Always Been Cowboys" is a classic country ballad, originally known for its gentle, lilting rhythm and heartfelt storytelling. The song’s pace and arrangement make it approachable for beginner guitarists.
Chords and Progression
The song uses basic open chords: D, G, A, A7, and E7. Beginners should familiarize themselves with these shapes, focusing especially on smooth transitions between D and G, as these changes occur frequently. The E7 and A7 add a classic country feel and are straightforward to play.
Strumming Pattern
A simple strumming pattern works well here, such as:
Down, down-up, up-down-up
Count "1 2-and and-4-and" for each measure, keeping a relaxed wrist. Focus on a steady tempo, matching the song’s laid-back vibe.
Techniques and Tips
**- For chord transitions, keep your fingers close to the fretboard and practice switching between D and G repeatedly.
- Use light palm muting to add a country feel, especially in verses.
- For the A7 and E7 chords, let the open strings ring for a fuller sound.
- Play the intro and outro with softer dynamics, building slightly in the chorus for emotional effect.**
Practice slowly at first, and sing along as you gain confidence. This song is perfect for building chord transition speed and strumming consistency.
Intro
D D D D
Verse 1D I grew up a-dreamin', of bein' a cowboy, andG lovin' the cowboyD ways
Pursuin' the life, of my high-ridin' heroes, IE7 burned up my childhoodA days
ID learned all the rules, of the modern-day drifter. Don't youG hold on to nothin' tooD long
JustG take what you need, from theD ladies thenG leave them, with theD words, of aA7 sad countryD song
ChorusMyG heroes have always beenD cowboys.E7 And they still are itA7 seems
G Sadly in search of, andD one step inG back of, themD selves, and theirA7 slow-movin'D dreams
Verse 2D Cowboys are special, with their own brand of misery, fromG being alone tooD long
You could die from the cold, in the arms of a nightmare, knowin'E7 well, that your best days areA gone
D Pickin' up hookers, instead of my pen, I let theG words of my youth fade aD way
G Old worn-out saddles, andD old worn-outG memories, withD no one, andA7 no place toD stay
ChorusMyG heroes have always beenD cowboys.E7 And they still are itA7 seems
G Sadly in search of, andD one step inG back of, themD selves, and theirA7 slow-movin'D dreams
OutroG Sadly in search of, andD one step inG back of, themD selves, and theirA7 slow movin'G dreamsD