Swallow My Tears chords
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How to play "Swallow My Tears" by Gwen Stefani [Chords|Guitar]
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Song Overview:
- Key: Bb major
- Capo: 1st fret
- Difficulty: Intermediate
- Tempo: Slow and reflective
Chords Used:
- A (x02220)
- A/C# (x42220)
- Dmaj7 (xx0222)
- A/G# (4x2220)
- E (022100)
- F#7 (242322)
- E/G# (4x2400)
- F#m7 (242222)
Strumming Pattern:
- No set pattern provided, but try:
Down-down-up, up-down-up
- Keep a slow, even pace for a reflective mood.
Sections Breakdown:
[Intro]
- Chord Progression: A - A/C# - Dmaj7 (x2)
- Let each chord ring out; play gently to set the tone.
[Verse 1]
- Chord Progression: A - A/C# - Dmaj7 (x2), A - A/G# - E - F#7
- Soft strumming; focus on clean transitions, especially between
A/C# and Dmaj7.
[Chorus]
- Chord Progression: Dmaj7 - E - A - E/G# - F#m7
- Dmaj7 - E - A - E/G# - F#m7
- Keep strums consistent but with a bit more emphasis on each
chord change.
[Instrumental]
- Chord Progression: A - A/C# - Dmaj7 (x2)
- Same as the intro; let chords ring for an emotional effect.
[Verse 2]
- Chord Progression: A - A/C# - Dmaj7 (x2), A - A/G# - E - F#7
- Maintain the gentle strumming but with a bit more energy as
the song builds.
[Chorus]
- Repeat the same progression as the first chorus.
- This time, add a slight pause before each E chord to enhance
the emotion.
[Bridge]
- Chord Progression: Dmaj7 - E - A - E/G# - F#m7
- Softly strum each chord, focusing on clarity and flow.
[Outro]
- Chord Progression: Dmaj7 - E - A - E/G# - F#m7
- Repeat with a fading strum; end softly to let the song close.
Common Mistakes:
- Rushing through transitions; this song needs a slow, steady pace.
- Missing the subtle transitions from E/G# to F#m7.
- Overplaying the F#7 chord; keep it gentle to match the song’s tone.
General Tips:
- Use standard tuning with a capo on the 1st fret.
- Pay close attention to the dynamics, increasing volume during the
chorus for added emotion.
- Practice the transitions from A to A/C# and from Dmaj7 to E for
smooth playing.
Song Facts:
- "Swallow My Tears" is an emotional song that showcases Gwen Stefani's
more introspective side.
- Released as part of a single, it highlights themes of vulnerability,
self-reflection, and the process of moving past pain.
- Known for its heartfelt lyrics, it was well-received for the raw
emotion and honesty Stefani brings to the performance.
Song Meaning:
- The lyrics reflect a struggle with past pain, the feeling of being
haunted by memories, and the resilience needed to move forward in
relationships.
- It’s a testament to the emotional journey of healing and staying open
to love despite past hurts.
Comparisons to Previous Works:
- This song’s intimate, confessional tone is similar to other Gwen Stefani
ballads, like "4 In The Morning." It’s a departure from her upbeat,
pop anthems, showcasing her range and vulnerability as an artist.
```
[Intro]
| A A/C# | Dmaj7 | 2x
[Verse 1]
A A/C# Dmaj7
The past keeps chasin' me around
A A/C# Dmaj7 A
I thought I lost it, but then it found me
A/C# Dmaj7
Like it always does
A A/C# Dmaj7
Dragging me back to who I was
A A/G#
And I'm runnin', I'm runnin'
E F#7
But not from you
[Chorus]
Dmaj7 E
I stay one step ahead of the pain
A E/G# F#m7
I keep an umbrella when there's no rain
Dmaj7 E
I got my guard up when there's no war
A E/G# F#m7
Don't know what I'm fighting for
Dmaj7 E
Give me a second, I need to swallow my tears
A E/G# F#m7 Dmaj7
I promise, I promise, I promise I want you here
E A E/G#
I want you here
N.C.
But first let me swallow my tears
[Instrumental]
| A A/C# | Dmaj7 | 2x
[Verse 2]
A A/C# Dmaj7 A
Lookin' for God, I'm prayin', kneelin'
A/C# Dmaj7 A
Had to go and do some healin'
A/C# Dmaj7 A
Sorry I was ghostin' you (Ghostin' you)
A/C# Dmaj7
But what was I supposed to do?
A A/G#
I'm runnin', I'm runnin'
E F#7
But not from you
[Chorus]
Dmaj7 E
I stay one step ahead of the pain
A E/G# F#m7
I keep an umbrella when there's no rain
Dmaj7 E
I got my guard up when there's no war
A E/G# F#m7
Don't know what I'm fighting for
Dmaj7 E
Give me a second, I need to swallow my tears
A E/G# F#m7 Dmaj7
I promise, I promise, I promise I want you here
E A E/G# F#m7
I want you here
[Instrumental]
| Dmaj7 | E | A E/G# | F#m7 |
[Outro]
Dmaj7 E
Give me a second, I need to swallow my tears
A E/G# F#m7 Dmaj7
I promise, I promise, I promise I want you here (I want you here)
E A E/G#
I want you here (I need you here)
F#m7 Dmaj7
I want you here (I want you here)
E A E/G#
I want you here (I need you here)
Dmaj7 E
I promise, I promise, I promise
A E/G# F#m7
I promise, I promise, I promise
[Ending]
| Dmaj7 | E | A E/G# | F#m7 | 2x