The original "Angie" by The Rolling Stones is a gentle acoustic ballad, well known for its expressive guitar work and emotional vocal delivery. The song’s feel is mellow, making it ideal for beginner players to focus on clean chord transitions and expressive strumming.
## Chords and Transitions
The song uses common open chords: Am, Am7, E, E7, G, F, Dm, and C. Practice switching between Am and E/E7, as these transitions occur frequently. The F chord may be the most challenging for beginners. If barre chords are difficult, try the easier F major 4-string version (xx3211).
## Strumming Pattern
A soft, flowing strumming pattern suits the song. Try a basic down-down-up-up-down-up (D-D-U-U-D-U) pattern. Keep your strumming gentle to match the ballad feel. Listen to the original for dynamics—some verses are softer, while the chorus can be slightly stronger.
## Techniques and Tips
Pause slightly before each chord change to ensure accuracy, especially for the F and Dm chords. For the intro, let each chord ring out with a single downstroke to capture the song’s opening mood. For verses, keep strumming steady and relaxed. Use your thumb for bass notes if comfortable, especially on F and G.
Practice slowly, focusing on smooth transitions and even timing. Singing along helps with phrasing and chord placement. With patience, you'll capture the gentle, emotional feel of the original recording.