Song Index Songs by Chords Guide to Guitar Chords About
Goodnight, Sweetheart The Spaniels

 About the Original
"Goodnight, Sweetheart" by The Spaniels is a classic doo-wop ballad from the 1950s, characterized by smooth vocal harmonies and a gentle, swaying rhythm. The song’s simple, sentimental mood is reflected in its chord progression, making it approachable for beginner guitarists."

Chord Progression and Transitions
The song is in G major and uses common open chords: G, Em, Am, D, D7, G7, Cm, C, E7, E, Cmaj7.
Beginners should familiarize themselves with each chord, especially the less common ones like Cm and Cmaj7. Practice moving between G, Em, Am, and D, as these transitions occur frequently.

Tips for Playing

  • Strumming Pattern: Use a gentle, slow swing rhythm. Try a simple down-down-up-up-down-up pattern, or just slow downstrokes to match the song’s laid-back feel.
  • Chord Changes: Watch out for quick changes between G, G7, and the Am–Cm sequence in the chorus. Pause and practice these spots if they feel awkward.
  • Barre Chords: Cm and E7 may require partial barre shapes; if full barre is difficult, use simplified versions or partial fingerings.
  • Dynamics: Play softly and focus on smooth, even strums to capture the doo-wop vibe. Let the chords ring out naturally.

Summary
Take it slow, listen to recordings for feel, and keep your strumming relaxed. With a bit of practice, you’ll be able to play along with this timeless classic!

EADGBE G
EADGBE Em
EADGBEX Am
EADGBEXX D
EADGBE G7
EADGBEX Cm
EADGBEXX D7
EADGBE C
EADGBE E7
EADGBE E
EADGBEX Cmaj7
Intro
G
Verse 1
G Goodnight sweetEm heart wellll it'sAm time toD go
G Goodnight sweetEm heart wellll it'sAm time toD go
G I hate toG7 leave you but IAm really mustCm say, oh goodG night sweetEm heart,D7 goodniG ight
Verse 2
G Goodnight sweetEm heart wellll it'sAm time toD go
G Goodnight sweetEm heart wellll it'sAm time toD go
G I hate toG7 leave you, IAm really mustCm say, oh goodG night sweetEm heart,D7 goodniG ight
Bridge 1
G7 WellllAm it's three o'clock, in theG morning
Am Baby, I just can'tD7 getG riG7 ight
Wellll, IC hate to leave youAm baby,G don't meanE7 mayE be, beCmaj7 cause IAm loveC youD so
Verse 3
G Goodnight sweetEm heart wellll it'sAm time toD go
G Goodnight sweetEm heart wellll it'sAm time toD go
G I hate toG7 leave you, IAm really mustCm say, oh goodG night sweetEm heart,D7 goodniG ight
Bridge 2
Am Mother, oh and yourG father,Am won't like it if ID7 stay here tooG longG7
OneC kiss and we'llAm part, andG I'll beE7 goE ing
YouCmaj7 know IAm hateC toD go
Verse 4
G Goodnight sweetEm heart wellll it'sAm time toD go
G Goodnight sweetEm heart wellll it'sAm time toD go
G I hate toG7 leave you, IAm really mustCm say, oh goodG night sweetEm heart,D7 goodniG ight