The original version of "Stand By Your Man" by Tammy Wynette is a classic country ballad with a moderate tempo and a strong, steady rhythm. Its emotional delivery is supported by simple, memorable chord progressions, making it accessible for beginner guitarists.
Chords and Transitions
The song primarily uses open chords:
G, C, D, D7, Am, G7, A7, B7, E7
Most of these are beginner-friendly. If B7 and E7 are new, practice their finger placement separately, as they appear in quick succession during the chorus.
Tip:
Practice switching between D and D7, and between G and G7, as the song alternates these frequently. Use minimal finger movement to keep transitions smooth.
Strumming Pattern
A simple down-down-up-up-down-up (D-D-U-U-D-U) strumming pattern fits the country feel.
Alternatively, use a basic downstroke on each beat for a slower, ballad-like effect. Listen to the original to match the tempo and feel.
Techniques
- Keep your strumming hand relaxed for a consistent rhythm.
- Let chords ring out fully, especially at the ends of lines.
- For chord transitions, practice changing chords slowly, then gradually increase speed as you get comfortable.
- If a chord change feels rushed, simplify by holding the previous chord a beat longer until transitions improve.
Enjoy the song and let the lyrics guide your playing!
IntroG C G D
Verse 1G Sometimes it's hard to be aD womanD7
Am Giving all yourD7 love to justG one manG7
C You'll have bad timesG and he'll have good timesA7
Doin' things that you don't underD7 standG
Verse 2But if youG love him you'll forD7 give him
Am Even though he'sD7 hard to underG standG7
C And if you love himG oh be proudC of him
G Cause afterD7 all he's justG a manC G D G
ChorusStand by yourB7 manC Give him two arms to cling to
G And somethingE7 warm to come toA7 when nights areD cold and lonely
G Stand by yourB7 manC And show the world you loveG him
Keep givingD7 all the love youB7 canE7
C StandD7 by yourG manC G D G
OutroStand by yourB7 manC And show the world you loveG him
Keep givingD all theD7 love youB7 canE7 C
StandD7 by yourG manC G D G