{"currentUser":null,"song":{"data":{"id":"852","type":"song","attributes":{"appearsInProducts":[null],"artistImageUid":"2026/03/13/15/46/55/a7266dca-9e66-424c-ba26-9ce596e9bd74/guitar.jpeg","discourseTopicId":null,"faqContent":null,"featured":null,"gettingTheSound":null,"gradeId":1,"hasMaxResImage":true,"id":852,"notes":"

In this lesson, we'll learn how to play Tennessee Whiskey, a beautiful song with a great feel.

Surprisingly, it only uses two chords all the way through. That makes it a fantastic option for beginners, but there’s plenty here for more advanced players as well. We start with a simplified version using a capo on the 2nd fret and easy open chords. From there, we move to the full version without a capo using A and B minor barre chords. We also break down the 12/8 feel and work on getting the strumming hand to move consistently, which is key to making this song feel relaxed and natural.

Chords

Capo 2 (Beginner Version):

G
A minor

The progression is:
G → A minor → A minor → G
That four-bar sequence repeats for the whole song.

No Capo (Original Key):

A
B minor

Same progression pattern: A → B minor → B minor → A

The goal is to keep the strumming hand moving steadily because once the groove is automated, everything becomes much easier, especially if we’re singing at the same time.

Rhythm & Feel (12/8 Groove)

This song has a strong 12/8 feel—count it as:

1 2 3 4 5 6
1 2 3 4 5 6

Or feel it as 12 if that works better.

The important thing is the groove: big–small–small, big–small–small

Start with all downstrokes to lock in the motion, then build up to the full strumming pattern with ups on the “ands.” The key idea is that the hand keeps moving consistently—that’s what keeps everything in time.

A Chord Fill

Every second time, return to A, then add a small hammer-on fill. It’s subtle, but it adds a lot of character and helps outline the chord beautifully. Learn how that fits into the groove and how to place it correctly within the 12/8 feel.

Lead Lines & Solo

After locking in the rhythm, more advanced players can explore the lead parts. The intro and solo are great examples of playing chord tones rather than just running scales:

C# clearly outlines the A chord
Notes from the B minor chord are targeted during that section
Slides, bends, and subtle phrasing create a very tasteful sound

It’s not a technically difficult solo, but it’s a masterclass in restraint and outlining the harmony.

Checklist

Automating the 12/8 strumming motion
Relaxed right-hand technique
Smooth chord transitions
Using chord tones in lead playing
Adding tasteful fills without overplaying

This is a brilliant song to sink into, with simple chords, a beautiful feel, and lots of room to develop groove and musicality.

👉 Ready for more? Search over hundreds of song tutorials here!

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00:00 Demonstration

02:29 Introduction

04:00 Easy Chords With Capo

06:22 Playing Tips

07:48 Chord Progression

09:44 Rhythm & Strumming Pattern

11:50 Play Through

12:45 Chord Embellishment

15:40 Intro Solo

19:31 Verse Embellishments

22:03 Guitar Solo

27:52 Solo Play Through

30:17 Conclusion

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