If you want to impress your friends with a soulful country song, learning how to play Tennessee Whiskey by Chris Stapleton is a great choice.
This beautiful song features just a few chords, making it perfect for guitar players at any skill level. With the right guidance, you can easily master the chords and strumming patterns to capture the song’s smooth vibe.
Gearing up to play involves knowing the right chords and progressions that bring out the heart of the song.
By following simple steps, you can break down the lesson into manageable parts.
Playing this classic tune will not only enhance your guitar skills but also leave a lasting impact on your audience.
Key Takeaways
- You can learn to play Tennessee Whiskey with just a few simple chords.
- Knowing the right gear will make your playing experience better.
- Master the solo section to add flair to your performance.
Getting to Know Tennessee Whiskey
Tennessee Whiskey is more than just a song; it’s a cultural touchstone that resonates with feelings of love and longing.
Understanding its background and lyrics can deepen your appreciation for this classic tune.
History and Influence
Tennessee Whiskey has roots that go back to the early country music scene.
David Allen Coe originally wrote it in the 1980s, and Chris Stapleton later popularized it with his soulful rendition.
His version brings a smooth, rich quality that blends blues and country, highlighting the song’s themes of heartache and redemption.
The song compares love to whiskey, suggesting that true love is just as smooth and intoxicating.
This makes it a favorite in barrooms across the country.
Tennessee whiskey, the drink itself, is known for its quality and distinct flavor.
The love for the drink mirrors its love in the lyrics, making it a perfect pairing for good times and heartfelt moments.
Understanding the Lyrics
The lyrics of Tennessee Whiskey paint a vivid picture of love and longing.
The song describes a love that is intoxicating, likening it to the warmth of whiskey.
You’ll notice phrases that evoke a feeling of being rescued from a lonely place.
The imagery of being “stoned” suggests that love can uplift you, providing a high that nothing else can.
Words like “smooth” and “heart” tie into the idea that a good relationship eases life’s troubles.
It’s a reminder that just like a fine whiskey, true love gets better with time.
As you listen, think about how the lyrics resonate with your own experiences in love.
Gearing Up For Play
Before you start playing “Tennessee Whiskey,” it’s important to be prepared.
Getting the right gear and ensuring your guitar is ready can make a big difference in your playing experience.
Choosing the Right Guitar
For beginners, an acoustic guitar is a great option for “Tennessee Whiskey.” Acoustic guitars create a warm, rich sound that fits the song’s vibe perfectly.
If you don’t have an acoustic guitar, you can use an electric guitar too.
Just remember that you’ll likely need a good amplifier to get the right tone. Consider trying different guitars at a local music store to see which one feels best in your hands.
Also, using a capo can help you play the song in different keys, matching your vocal range.
A standard capo will work just fine for this song, allowing you to switch positions easily.
Essentials of Guitar Tuning
Before diving into playing, you must tune your guitar.
Playing in tune keeps everything sounding great.
You can use a clip-on tuner, or a tuning app on your mobile device, making this task super easy.
To achieve the correct tuning, make sure each string matches standard tuning: E A D G B e (from lowest to highest).
If you need help tuning, start with the lowest string, E. Pluck it and adjust until it matches the tuner.
Repeat this process for all strings.
Take some time to check your tuning regularly, as it can slip, especially with changes in temperature or humidity.
Keeping your guitar in tune is key to sounding good while playing.
Mastering the Chords and Progressions
To play “Tennessee Whiskey,” you need to get comfortable with certain chords and progressions.
This song features some key chords and techniques that make it sound great.
Let’s break this down.
Basic Chords Overview
You’ll want to focus on a few essential chords, like G, A, and E.
The G chord is a favorite for this song, giving it that rich, full sound.
To play it, place your fingers as follows:
- Index finger on the second fret of the A string.
- Middle finger on the third fret of the low E string.
- Ring finger on the third fret of the high E string.
Next is the A chord.
It involves pressing down the second fret on the D, G, and B strings.
You’ll also need the E chord, which is played by placing your fingers on the first fret of the G string, second fret of the A string, and second fret of the D string.
Practicing these will prepare you for the song!
Chord Transitions and Techniques
Getting smooth transitions between chords is essential.
For beginners, practice moving from G to A and then to E.
Try to keep your fingers close to the strings to minimize movement.
You can also add some flair with techniques like hammer-ons and slides.
For a hammer-on, strike the string and then quickly press down another finger to create a note.
Vibrato adds a nice touch too; gently wiggle your finger on a fretted note.
A good strumming pattern to start with is down, down, up, down, up.
This gives a steady rhythm that matches the song’s feel.
Mixing in some barre chords can also give a fuller sound as you progress.
Keep practicing these elements, and you’ll be playing along in no time!
Playing the Solo and Instrumental Sections
To play the solo in “Tennessee Whiskey,” you’ll need to focus on the specific chords and notes.
The solo uses a combination of bends and slides to create that smooth sound.
Start with the chords: the main progression is A, Bm, and then back to A. You can find the solo tab here.
Your strumming pattern should be light and rhythmic.
Use a down-up, down-up motion to match the feel of the song.
Here’s a quick list of the main parts to focus on:
- Intro Riff: Start simple, then build into the solo.
- Chords: Familiarize yourself with A and Bm.
- Solo Tab: Check the tab for specific notes and techniques.
Practice the instrumental sections by playing along with the song.
This helps with timing and getting the feel right.
Make sure to take your time with the solo.
It’s about feeling the music, not just hitting the right notes.
With practice, you’ll get the hang of it! Enjoy playing and let the music flow.
Frequently Asked Questions
If you’re diving into playing “Tennessee Whiskey” on guitar, you might have some common questions.
Let’s get straight to the details you’re looking for.
What chords do I use for the Tennessee Whiskey intro on guitar?
For the intro, you mainly use the chords G and A. These two chords set up the smooth vibe of the song.
Can you show me how to play Tennessee Whiskey solo on guitar?
The solo features a mix of bends and slides.
Start by learning the notes in the key of A major.
There are plenty of tutorials online that break it down step by step.
What’s the best way to learn Tennessee Whiskey on electric guitar?
Using a combination of video tutorials and chord charts can be really helpful.
Focus on your tone and try to match Chris Stapleton’s soulful sound.
Don’t forget to practice regularly!
Are there any beginner-friendly tabs for Tennessee Whiskey on guitar?
Yes, there are plenty of beginner tabs available online.
Look for tabs that highlight the basic chords and easy finger positions.
This will help you play the song without feeling overwhelmed.
How can I get Tennessee Whiskey guitar chords and tabs in PDF format?
You can find PDF versions of the chords and tabs on various guitar websites.
Some sites offer free downloads, while others may require a small fee.
Just search for “Tennessee Whiskey guitar tabs PDF.”
What are the main techniques needed for playing Tennessee Whiskey on guitar?
You’ll want to focus on techniques like fingerpicking and smooth strumming.
Also, mastering bends and slides will add to your sound.
Practice these techniques to capture the essence of the song.