Play With Fire - The Rolling Stones | Song Tabs - Guitar Chord Sheets

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Play With Fire The Rolling Stones

The original version of "Play With Fire" by The Rolling Stones is a haunting, minimalist track from their early catalog. Its subdued mood comes from simple instrumentation and a repetitive, hypnotic chord progression, making it approachable for beginner guitarists.

## Chord Progression and Transitions

The song primarily uses open chords: Em, G, D, and C, which are staple beginner shapes. Most of the verses repeat Em, so keep your fingers in position and focus on making clean, even strums.

For the chorus line ("But don't play with me..."), the chords move from G to D to G to C to Em. Practice switching between these chords smoothly, especially from C back to Em, which can be tricky for beginners. Take it slow, making sure each note rings clearly.

## Strumming Pattern

The recording is gentle and laid-back. Use a simple downstroke pattern or down-down-up-up-down-up for a natural flow. Keep your wrist loose, and emphasize the first beat of each measure for that classic, steady feel.

## Additional Tips

Mute unused strings with your fretting hand to avoid unwanted noise. If you struggle with barre chords, you’re in luck—these are all open shapes.

Listen to the original track to match the song’s tempo and dynamics. Focus on keeping transitions smooth and the rhythm steady. With practice, you’ll capture the song’s moody vibe while improving your chord changes and timing.

G

D

C

Em

Intro

G D G C Em Em

Verse 1

Em Well you've got yourEm diamonds and you've got your prettyEm clothes

And the chauffeur drives yourEm car, you let everybodyEm know

But don'tG playD withG me cause you'reC playing withEm fire

Verse 2

Em Your mother she's anEm heiress, owns a block in Saint JohnsEm Wood

And your father'd be thereEm with her, if he onlyEm could

But don'tG playD withG me cause you'reC playing withEm fire

Instrumental

G D G C Em Em

Verse 3

Em Your old man took herEm diamonds, and tiaras by theEm score

Now she gets her kicks inEm Stepney, not in Knightsbridge anyEm more

So don'tG playD withG me cause you'reC playing withEm fire

Verse 4

Em Now you've got someEm diamonds, and you will add someEm others

But you'd better watch yourEm step girl, or start living with yourEm mother

So don'tG playD withG me cause you'reC playing withEm fire

So don'tG playD withG me cause you'reC playing withEm fire