Runaway Train chords
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[Intro]
D A G D A G D A G D A G
[Verse 1]
A G
No lazy river, no Sunday drive
A G
No wading in a Blanco stream
A D
Bullets shootin', lightning strikin'
A D
No common sense of timin'
G
Ever since you saw me, you've been pickin' up speed
[Chorus]
D A G
You've got a heart like a runaway train
D A G
Screamin' down the mountainside
D A G
Burnin' like a fever that you can't contain
D A G
Hummin' like the 405
A D
Headed off the rails, and you're comin' in fast
G A
You're 'bout to hit me like a heart attack
D A G D A G D A G
Boy, you've got a heart like a runaway train
[Verse 2]
A G
No drug-store roses, no cheap champagne
A G
Stuff I'd only throw away
A D
Comets sailing, arrows flying
A D
We're roller coaster ridin'
G
Sayin' all the things that we shouldn't say
G
But I gotta say
[Chorus]
D A G
Boy, you've got a heart like a runaway train
D A G
Screamin' down the mountainside
D A G
Burnin' like a fever that you can't contain
D A G
Hummin' like the 405
A D
Headed off the rails, and you're comin' in fast
G A
You're 'bout to hit me like a heart attack
D A G D A G D A G
Boy, you've got a heart like a runaway train, mm
[Bridge]
G
Runaway
G
Runaway
G
Runaway
G
Runaway
[Out-Chorus]
D A G
Boy, you've got a heart like a runaway train
D A G
Screamin' down the mountainside
D A G
Burnin' like a fever that you can't contain
D A G
Hummin' like the 405
A D
Headed off the rails, and you're comin' in fast
G A
You're 'bout to hit me like a heart attack
D A G D A
Boy, you've got a heart like a runaway train
G D A
Like a runaway train
G D A G D
Like a runaway train
"Runaway Train" by Sarah Jarosz is a vivid narrative song that uses its
chord progression and lyrical imagery to convey motion and emotion.
It's structured around a catchy and driving chord progression that perfectly
complements the song's theme. Here's how to bring this song to life on your guitar:
Intro
Start with the D, A, G progression, played in a sequence that immediately
sets the song's pace. This progression is repeated, establishing a sense of
urgency and movement, akin to a train gaining momentum.
D A G D A G D A G D A G
Verse 1
The verses play with the A and G chords, creating a narrative backdrop
before moving into the D chord, which punctuates the storytelling. The lyrics
paint vivid scenes, with the chords providing a steady, rhythmic foundation.
A G
No lazy river, no Sunday drive
A G
No wading in a Blanco stream
...
Ever since you saw me, you've been pickin' up speed
Chorus
The chorus introduces a powerful, emotive declaration with the D, A,
and G chords. This section captures the essence of the song, with the
chord progression mirroring the intensity of the runaway train metaphor.
D A G
You've got a heart like a runaway train
...
Boy, you've got a heart like a runaway train
Verse 2
Follows the same chordal pattern as Verse 1, further developing the song's
narrative. The chords continue to drive the story forward, with the lyrics
delving deeper into the emotional landscape of the song.
Bridge
The bridge simplifies to a series of G chords, providing a moment of
reflection and emphasis on the word "Runaway." This part acts as a
pivotal moment in the song, highlighting the central theme.
G
Runaway
G
Runaway
...
Out-Chorus
Reiterates the chorus's chord progression and lyrical theme but concludes
with a series of D, A, and G chords that gradually bring the song to a close,
mimicking the slowing of a train coming to a stop.
Tips for Playing
Emphasize the rhythm in your strumming pattern to mimic the locomotive's chug.
The song thrives on its momentum, so keeping a steady and dynamic rhythm is key.
Pay attention to the lyrical imagery and let it guide your emotional expression
through the chords. Each chord transition can reflect the shifting scenes and
emotions described in the song.
Use dynamics to enhance the storytelling. Play softer during reflective
moments and build intensity during the chorus to mimic the runaway train's
power and speed.