[Intro]
D
[Verse 1]
D
What was I thinkin'? Sayin' I don't dance, girl
D
Let her walk away, and it coulda been love
D
Bet you right now she'd be lightin' up my world
D
What was I thinkin'? It coulda been love
[Chorus]
G D
Coulda been love, coulda been forever
A D
Guess I'll never know, some fools never
G
Never, ever learn when not to run
D
Dang it, ole son
D
It coulda been love
[Verse 2]
D
When she was walkin' out the door, she was lookin' back my way
D
Threw me a smile and it coulda been love
D
I was sippin' on a beer, she was headed for the highway
D
Now she long gone, it coulda been love
[Chorus]
G D
Coulda been love, coulda been forever
A D
Guess I'll never know, some fools never
G
Never, ever learn when not to run
D
Yeah, she's long gone
D
And it coulda been love
D
Yeah, there she goes
[Fiddle Solo]
G D A G D
[Piano Solo]
G D A G D
[Verse 3]
D
Wish I'da got her name, I could probably find her number
D
Let her get away, and it coulda been love
D
This old heart ain't gettin' any younger
D
What was I thinkin'? It coulda been love
[Chorus]
G D
Coulda been love, coulda been forever
A D
Guess I'll never know, some fools never
G
Never, ever learn when not to run
D
Another chance done gone
G D
It coulda been love, coulda been forever
A D
Guess I'll never know, some fools never
G
Never, ever learn when not to run
D
Another chance done gone, coulda been love
D
Dang it ole son, it coulda been love
D
Now she's long gone, and it coulda been love
[Outro]
D N.C. D
What was I thinkin'? Sayin' I don't dance, girl
Song Structure and Chords
Intro: The song starts with a single D chord, establishing a reflective tone.
Verse 1: The narrative begins, sticking with the D chord, illustrating a moment
of realization about a missed opportunity for love. The simplicity of using D
throughout the verse emphasizes the singular focus of the narrator's regret.
Chorus: The chorus introduces G and A into the progression (G-D-A-D), highlighting
the longing and the "what could have been" sentiment. The lyrics and chords together
underscore the theme of missed connections and the yearning for a lost chance at love.
Verse 2: Mirroring the structure of the first verse, the D chord continues to carry the
story, adding to the song's reflective nature. It paints a vivid picture of a moment
now past, a chance at love walking out the door.
Fiddle and Piano Solos: These solos over G, D, A, and back to D, provide a musical
interlude that reflects the emotional landscape of the song, allowing listeners a moment
to ponder their own "could have been" moments.
Verse 3 and Chorus: Continuing with the established pattern, the third verse deepens
the narrative of regret. The final chorus then reinforces the central theme, with the chord
progression supporting the culmination of the story's emotional journey.
Outro: The song closes on the D chord, coming full circle to the initial moment of
reflection, ending with a poignant silence after a final contemplation.
Playing Tips
Focus on Dynamics: The emotional depth of "Coulda Been Love" is best expressed
through dynamics. Play softly during the verses to highlight the reflective nature of
the lyrics and build intensity during the choruses to underscore the sense of longing
and regret.
Smooth Transitions: Practice transitioning smoothly between the D, G, and A chords
to maintain the song's flow and emotional continuity.
Emotional Expression in Solos: Use the fiddle and piano solos to explore the song's
themes musically. Even if translating these solos to guitar, aim to convey the same
sense of reflection and yearning.
Vocal Emphasis: If singing, emphasize the emotional weight of the lyrics. Let your
voice carry the regret, the wondering, and the wistful nature of the narrative.
Embodying the Song
Playing "Coulda Been Love" effectively means tapping into its emotional core. It's
a song about reflection, about the moments we let slip through our fingers, and the
longing for what might have been. As you play, let each chord resonate with the
weight of missed opportunities and the hope that lingers in memories of what could
have been love. This song isn't just a story told through music; it's a shared human
experience, a universal reflection on love, loss, and the paths not taken.
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