"Ruby Tuesday" by The Rolling Stones is a classic ballad from the 1960s, characterized by its gentle folk-pop sound. The original version features acoustic guitar, piano, and melodic bass, creating a soft and reflective mood.
The main chords used are Am, G, F, C, D7, and G7. All are open chords, making this suitable for beginners.
Tip: Practice switching between Am–G–F–G–C and G–F–C–G progressions, since these repeat frequently.
Keep the strumming gentle and even. For beginners, try a simple down-down-up-up-down-up (DDUUDU) pattern, which fits the song’s flowing feel. Alternatively, use downstrokes on each beat for a simpler approach.
The song moves quickly between chords, especially in the verses (e.g., Am–G–F–G–C). Practice these transitions slowly, ensuring each note rings clearly.
Tip: Keep your fingers close to the fretboard and look for anchor fingers (for example, your first finger can often stay near the same fret between Am and F).
Let chords ring and avoid muting strings unnecessarily. For F major, use the easy version (small F) if the barre chord is too difficult.
Listen to the original to match the song’s tempo and dynamics. Focus on smooth transitions and a consistent rhythm for the best results.