[Intro]
D Em7 C G
D Em7 C G
[Verse 1]
D Em7
I was born up on a mountain
C G
While the snow was coming in
D Em7
But I woke up in this valley
C G
Pulled my collar to the wind
D Em7
I saw the chance to catch a ride
C G
With a fair-weather friend
D Em7
But I never met a shortcut
C G D Em7 C
Wasn’t longer in the end
[Chorus]
G D Em7
Take the high road
C G
Over the mountain pass
D Em7
Take the high road
C G
Going slow while everybody’s going fast
D Em7
It won’t be the easy way
C G
Saying what you want to say
D Em7 C G D
Take the high road, baby
[Interlude]
Em7 C G
[Verse 2]
D Em7
Lately I’ve been keeping
C G
Two feet down on the ground
D Em7
Not causing a commotion
C G
Trying not to make a sound
D Em7
I wouldn’t want somebody
C G
To get the wrong idea
D Em7
But I’m tired of being quiet
C
Time to face up to the fear
[Chorus]
G D Em7
Take the high road
C G
Over the mountain pass
D Em7
Take the high road
C G
Going slow while everybody’s going fast
D Em7
It won’t be the easy way
C G
Saying what you want to say
D Em7 C G
Take the high road, baby
[Guitar Solo]
Am Em D Am C
[Chorus]
G D Em7
Take the high road
C G
Over the mountain pass
D Em7
Take the high road
C G
Going slow while everybody’s going fast
D Em7
It won’t be the easy way
C G
Saying what you want to say
D Em7 C G
Take the high road, baby
[Outro]
D Em C G D Em C G
D Em C G D Em C G
D G D G D G D
C G D C G D
X
"Take The High Road" combines a folk-inspired melody with poignant
lyrics, creating an anthem for perseverance and integrity. The song's
chord progression is straightforward, making it accessible for guitarists
of all skill levels, while its message adds depth to the playing experience.
Introduction & Verse Chord Progressions
The song opens with a warm, inviting intro, cycling through D, Em7, C, and G
chords. This progression sets the stage for the narrative to unfold, with each
chord change mirroring the steps of a journey—both literal and metaphorical.
For the verses, the same chord progression continues, supporting the storytelling
nature of the lyrics. The transition between chords should be smooth,
allowing the narrative and melody to flow seamlessly together.
The choice of chords, including the Em7, adds a touch of complexity and depth,
reflecting the song's themes of resilience and determination.
Chorus Harmony and Dynamics
The chorus introduces a powerful message, underscored by the continuation
of the chord progression, with a slight variation in the strumming pattern to
emphasize the lyrics' resolve. Here, the message to "take the high road" is both a
literal and figurative call to action, suggesting a path of integrity and strength.
In this section, pay attention to the dynamics of your strumming. A more forceful
approach can highlight the chorus's uplifting message, while still maintaining the
song's overall contemplative mood.
Bridge and Guitar Solo
Following the second chorus, a guitar solo provides a moment of musical reflection,
using the chords Am, Em, D, and C to explore the song's themes instrumentally.
This solo is a chance to express the song's emotional depth through melody,
providing a bridge between the lyrics' guidance and the listener's personal interpretation.
Outro and Final Reflection
The song concludes with a repeating outro that mirrors the intro, gradually
winding down to a reflective close. This repetition serves as a reminder of
the song's message, inviting listeners to ponder the path they choose in life.
Playing Tips
- Let the chords ring out during the intro, verses, and outro to emphasize
the song's reflective nature.
- Experiment with different strumming patterns in the chorus to bring out the song's
uplifting message. A mix of downstrokes and upstrokes can add texture and depth.
- The guitar solo is an opportunity to explore the song's themes on a deeper level.
Focus on melody and expression, even if simplifying the solo to match your skill level.
- Pay close attention to the lyrics and their message as you play. The emotion and
intent behind the words can guide your dynamics and expression, adding a layer
of authenticity to your performance.
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