Song Index Songs by Chords Guide to Guitar Chords About
White Rabbit Jefferson Airplane

 The original "White Rabbit" by Jefferson Airplane is known for its hypnotic, steady build and psychedelic feel. The song’s distinctive sound comes from its driving rhythm and simple, repeating chord structure, perfect for beginners looking to capture that intensity.

Chord Tips

Chords used: F#, G, A, C, D, E
Most chords are basic open or barre shapes. For F# and G, barre chords up the neck work well (F# at the 2nd fret, G at the 3rd), but beginners can use simplified versions or power chords until comfortable.

Strumming Pattern

Keep a steady, even strum throughout.
Try a simple downstroke pattern (all down strums) to mimic the original’s march-like rhythm. Once confident, add some upstrokes for dynamics (down-down-up-down).

Chord Transitions

Practice moving between F# and G repeatedly.
The intro and verses focus on these two, so getting smooth at this change is key. Slow down and use a metronome if needed.

Techniques

Let the chords ring slightly, but keep a tight, rhythmic feel.
Mute the strings lightly with your palm after each strum for a more percussive effect, matching the song’s urgency.
For the bridge, the jump to E and A breaks the pattern—be ready for the change and return.

General Advice

Start slow, focus on clean chord shapes, and build up speed.
Listen to the original for timing, and don’t rush the build-up; the hypnotic quality comes from patience and repetition.

EADGBE F#
EADGBE G
EADGBEX A
EADGBE C
EADGBEXX D
EADGBE E
Intro
F# F# G G F# F# G G F# F# G G
Verse 1
F# One pill makes you larger, andG one pill makes you small
And theF# ones that mother gives you, don'tG do anything at all
Go askA Alice,C when she'sD ten feetA tall
Verse 2
And ifF# you go chasing rabbits, and youG know you're going to fall
Tell 'em aF# hookah smoking caterpillar,G has given you the call
CallA Alice,C whenD she was justA small
Bridge
E When men on the chessboard, get up andA tell you where to go
And you'veE just had some kind of mushroom, and yourA mind is moving slow
Go askF# Alice, I think she'll know
Verse 3
When logic, and proportion, haveG fallen sloppy dead
And theF# White Knight is talking backwards, and theG Red Queen's off with her head
ReA member,C what theD dormouseA said
Outro
E Feed yourA head,E feed yourA head