Song Index Songs by Chords Guide to Guitar Chords About
Medicine Jar Paul McCartney & Wings

 The original version of "Medicine Jar" by Wings features a straightforward rock arrangement with a strong rhythmic feel. This makes it accessible for beginner guitarists to learn and play along.


Chord Progression and Structure

The song primarily uses the chords Am, A7, C, Dm, G, E, and E7. All these are open chords and suitable for beginners.

The intro and verses repeat the Am chord with occasional transitions to A7 and C, creating a hypnotic and moody effect. The chorus introduces Dm and E/E7 for contrast.


Strumming Pattern

A simple down-down-up-up-down-up (D-D-U-U-D-U) strumming pattern works well.
Try to keep the strumming relaxed, especially during the repeated Am sections. For the chorus, you may strum slightly harder to emphasize the change.


Chord Transitions and Techniques

  • Practice switching between Am and A7 without lifting your index and middle fingers.
  • For Am to C, just move your ring finger from the 2nd to the 3rd fret on the 5th string.
  • E and E7 are similar; add your pinky or lift a finger as needed.
  • When moving to Dm, make sure your fingers arch so all strings ring clearly.

Tips for Beginners

  • Play slowly at first, focusing on smooth transitions between chords.
  • Mute the strings slightly for a percussive effect during repeated Am sections if you wish.
  • Use a metronome to keep steady timing.

With practice, "Medicine Jar" can be a great song to develop your chord changes and rhythm skills.

EADGBEX Am
EADGBEX A7
EADGBE C
EADGBEXX Dm
EADGBE G
EADGBE E
EADGBE E7
Intro
Am Am Am A7 Am
Am Am Am C Am
Am Am Am A7 Am
Am Am Am C Am
Verse 1
What's wrong withAm you? I wish I knew
You sayDm time will tell, I hope that'sAm true
Am Am Am A7 Am
Am Am Am C Am
There's more to life thanDm blues and reds
I say IG know how you feel now yourE friendsE7 areAm dead
Am Am Am A7 Am
Am Am Am C Am
Chorus
Dm Dead on your feet you won't get far if youE7 keep on sticking yourE hand in theE7 medicineAm jar
Am Am Am A7 Am
Am Am Am C Am
Verse 2
Well now don't giveAm up, whatever you do
You sayDm time will tell, I hope that'sAm true
Am Am Am A7 Am
Am Am Am C Am
If you go down andDm lose your head I say IG know how you feel now yourE friendsE7 areAm dead
Am Am Am A7 Am
Am Am Am C Am
Chorus
Dm Dead on your feet you won't get far if youE7 keep on sticking yourE hand in theE7 medicineAm jar
Am Am Am A7 Am
Am Am Am C Am
Verse 3
What can IAm do? I can't let go
You sayDm time will heal, but veryAm slow
Am Am Am A7 Am
Am Am Am C Am
So don't forget theDm things you said
I say IG know how you feel now yourE friendsE7 areAm dead
Am Am Am A7 Am
Am Am Am C Am
Outro
Dm Dead on your feet you won't get far if youE7 keep on sticking yourE hand in theE7 medicineAm jar
The medicineDm jar, the medicineAm jar
MedicineDm jar, the medicineAm jar
The medicineDm jar, the medicineAm jar
The medicineDm jar, get your hands out
Am Dm Am Dm Am Dm Am