[Intro]
Bbm F Ab A
[Verse 1]
Bbm A Ab
America, how are ya?
A
I hope you're doin' fine
Bbm A
America, I love ya
Ab A
And I fear you sometimes
Cdim F7
America, you know I
Bbm Eb
Can be hard to understand
Cdim F7
America, please forgive me
Bbm Bb Ab F
I'm only a man
[Verse 2]
Bbm A
America, have I told ya
Ab F
How I labor in your fields?
Bbm A
America, I just keep workin'
Ab A
Doesn't matter how I feel
Cdim F7
America, it's been said that
Bbm Eb
My whole life is in your hands
Cdim F7
So, America, if you see me cryin'
Bbm Ab
Know I'm only a man
[Trumpet Solo]
F Bbm A Ab F/A
[Verse 3]
Bbm A
America, I wonder
Ab A
If you remember me
Bbm A
America, you promised
Ab A
And I've been waitin' patiently
Cdim F7
America, it's easy
Bbm Eb
To get lost in this land
Cdim F7
America, can you see me
Bbm F Ab
Cause I'm only a man
[Outro]
F Bbm A Ab
F Bbm A Ab
F Bbm A Ab
X
How to play "America" by Charley Crockett on guitar
[Intro] and [Outro] Chords
- Bbm F Ab A
- Strumming: Use a smooth and controlled strumming pattern, focusing
on the downstroke for each beat. Let each chord resonate before
moving to the next.
[Verse 1] & [Verse 2] Chords
- Progression: Bbm A Ab A Bbm A Ab A Cdim F7 Bbm Eb Cdim F7
- Strumming: Maintain a steady rhythm. Strum primarily on downstrokes
but incorporate light upstrokes on offbeats for texture.
- Common Mistakes: Avoid rushing the transitions between chords,
especially the shift from Ab to A. Take time to ensure each chord
is clear and not muddled.
[Trumpet Solo] Accompaniment Chords
- Chords: F Bbm A Ab F/A
- Playing Tip: Even though it's a trumpet solo, you can strum these
chords to maintain the rhythm and harmony of the song.
- Emphasize the change from Ab to F/A, creating a melodic base for
the solo.
[Verse 3] Chords
- Similar to previous verses. Pay close attention to emotional
delivery here, as the lyrics are reflective and poignant.
- Focus on dynamic control, playing softly where the lyrics
speak of introspection and louder during expressions of emotion.
General Tips:
- Tuning: Standard tuning should be used (EADGBE).
- Tone: Opt for a clean or slightly overdriven tone to match the
Americana style of the song.
- Practice slowly at first to ensure accuracy in chord changes and
strumming, then gradually increase to the actual tempo.
Lyrics Theme Summary:
"America" by Charley Crockett explores themes of love, hope,
labor, and the complexities of American identity. The lyrics convey
a narrative of personal reflection and a desire for understanding
and recognition within the broader American landscape.