[Intro]
A D A D
A D A D
[Verse]
A
Go to bed early, wake up at dawn
D A
Swinging from the hip and punching at the clock
Build a hell of a life what more could you want
N.C. (D) (A)
Than a week's paid vacation and a pick up loan
Yeah
A D A D
A D A D
[Verse]
A
I got a little white house with a flag in the front
D A
Way that it is, is the way that it was
Dirt turns to mud here, steel turns to rust
N.C. (D) (A)
The color of my neck's still the same as my blood
[Chorus]
A D A
Daddy spent his whole life working for a dollar
D A
Name on his patch, more like a badge of honor
D A
Sent me off to school, tried to turn me to a scholar
N.C.
Can't unpaint the blue on my collar
A D A D
[Verse]
A
Gas is getting too damn high and land is too
D A
Can't get your hands on an acre, that ain't handed down to you
Towers moving in, sending rent through the roof
D A
But we can't lay down, so we lace up our boots
[Chorus]
A D A
Daddy spent his whole life working for a dollar
D A
Name on his patch, more like a badge of honor
D A
Sent me off to school, tried to turn me to a scholar
N.C.
Can't unpaint the blue on my collar
A A A A A A
A A A A A A
[Break]
A
Here's to their backs giving out and callous cracked hands
D A
The bank pissed away your retirement plans
But I'm still holding that flame
'Cause I still give a damn
D A
About that beaten down forgotten man
[Chorus]
N.C. D A
My daddy spent his whole life working for a dollar
D A
Name on his patch, more like a badge of honor
D A
Sent me off to school, tried to turn me to a scholar
D A
Can't unpaint the blue on my collar
A D A
Daddy spent his whole life working for a dollar
D A
Name on his patch, more like a badge of honor
D A
Sent me off to school, tried to turn me to a scholar
N.C.
Can't unpaint the blue on my collar
[Outro]
A D A D
A D A D
A
How to play "Forgotten Man" by Shane Elvie on guitar
Playing Style: This song is a heartfelt country anthem that employs a straightforward
chord progression predominantly featuring A and D. It carries a narrative that
echoes the life and challenges of the working class, with a strong focus on
storytelling.
Intro and Outro:
- The intro and outro consist of a simple alternating pattern of A and D chords.
This sets a reflective and somber tone, framing the song's thematic content.
Verse Chords:
- The verses continue with the A and D chords. Pay attention to the lyrics as you
play, allowing the chord transitions to punctuate the narrative poignantly.
- In some places marked as N.C. (no chord), let the vocal line carry the moment,
creating a pause in the guitar playing which adds emotional impact.
Chorus Chords:
- The chorus uses the same A and D chords but with a focus on delivering the
lyrics with emphasis. These parts of the song highlight the central message,
so your strumming should support the vocal delivery strongly.
Strumming Pattern:
- A suitable strumming pattern for this song is Down-Down-Up-Up-Down-Up. This
pattern provides both rhythm and drive but also allows for moments of emphasis,
particularly on the lyrically significant lines.
- Keep the rhythm consistent, but feel free to add a slight pause or emphasis
during the N.C. parts to enhance the lyrical impact.
Break:
- The break section dives deeper into the storytelling, so maintain the same
chord pattern but perhaps play with slightly more intensity or focus to
highlight the narrative's peak.
Common Mistakes:
- Over-strumming can drown out the lyrics. Ensure that your guitar playing
complements the storytelling without overpowering it.
- Not paying attention to the emotional delivery. The chords are simple, which
means the way you play them—dynamically and with feeling—makes all the
difference.
Lyrics Meaning:
"Forgotten Man" explores themes of hard work, legacy, and the often overlooked
struggles of the working class. It paints a picture of a life dedicated to labor,
with personal sacrifices and a strong sense of identity tied to work. The song
reflects a deep respect for this way of life, despite its hardships and the
changing world.
This song offers more than just chords to learn; it provides a narrative to
convey with sincerity and respect. Focus on the story you're telling with each
strum, and let the chords carry the weight of the lyrics to your audience.
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