The Rolling Stones’ “Honky Tonk Women” is a classic rock song with a bluesy, country feel, built around a strong rhythm and simple but catchy chord progressions. The original version is famous for its groove and open G tuning, but this ChordPro arrangement uses standard tuning and open chords, making it accessible for beginners.
How to Play
Chords Used:
G, C, D, D7, F, A
Strumming Pattern:
For beginners, a steady down-down-up-up-down-up pattern works well (D D U U D U). You can simplify further to downstrokes for the verses to focus on chord changes. Try accenting beats 2 and 4 to capture the song’s groove.
Chord Transitions:
- Practice moving between G and C smoothly, as these are frequent transitions.
- D and D7 appear in the chorus and outro. D7 is similar to D, just move your finger from the high E string to the B string, fret 1.
- F can be tough for beginners. Use the “easy F” (xx3211) or even just play the top four strings if needed.
- In the solo, A appears briefly. Use the standard A major shape (x02220).
Techniques:
Keep your strumming hand relaxed for a loose, swinging feel. Muting the strings slightly with the palm (palm muting) adds to the groove, especially during verses.
Tips:
- Play slowly at first, focusing on clean chord changes.
- Listen to the original for rhythm cues.
- Have fun with the chorus—let your strumming open up!
IntroG G G C D G G
Verse 1G I met a gin-soaked bar room queen inC MemphisF C
SheG tried to take me upstairs for aD ride
SheG had to heave me right across herC shoulderF C
'Cause IG just can't seem toD7 drink you offD myG mind
ChorusIt's the hon-D ky tonkG woman
Gimme gimmeD7 gimme theD honky tonkG blues
Verse 2IG played a divorcee in New YorkC CityF C
IG had to put up some kind of aD fight
TheG lady then she covered me withC rosesF C
SheG blew my nose andD7 then she blewD myG mind
ChorusIt's the hon-D ky tonkG woman
Gimme gimmeD7 gimme theD honky tonkG blues
SoloG C F F F C
G A A A
G C F F F C
G D7 D G
ChorusIt's the hon-D ky tonkG woman
Gimme gimmeD7 gimme theD honky tonkG blues
It's the hon-D ky tonkG woman
Gimme gimmeD7 gimme theD honky tonkG blues
OutroG C D7 G