"Earth Angel" is a classic doo-wop ballad from the 1950s, famously recorded by The Penguins. It is known for its gentle rhythm and romantic melody, making it a favorite for beginner guitarists.
The song uses basic open chords: G, Em, C, D, D7, Am, A, and G7. These are all fundamental chords and a great opportunity to practice smooth transitions.
A simple and effective strumming pattern is: Down, Down-Up, Up-Down-Up. This fits the slow, swaying rhythm of the original. For a softer feel, try just strumming the lower strings lightly and muting with your palm for a doo-wop vibe.
Practice switching between G, Em, and C repeatedly, as these transitions occur often. The movement between D/D7 and G is also frequent, so focus on getting these changes smooth and in time.
For the D7 and G7 chords, make sure each string rings clearly, as these add color to the progression.
During the intro and between verses, you can play single down strums for each chord for a dramatic effect.
Take it slow at first and sing along if possible to help with timing. Use a capo on the first or second fret if the key feels too low. Most importantly, keep your strumming hand relaxed for the classic doo-wop groove.