[Intro]
Bm G A G Bm
[Verse 1]
Bm
Chickens in the backyard
G
Preserves in mason jars
A Bm
Dry county dust has got me feelin' kinda low
Bm
Cat's on the windowsill
G
I'm feeling shaky still
A Bm
Mama's in the kitchen singing sweet by and by
Bm
She can't quite hold the tune
G
She's dancing 'round the room
A Bm
I disappoint her but she'll still carry on
[Chorus]
G Bm
Thank God forgiveness comes in so many shapes
A Bm
I've been traveling in anger tryin' to ditch the shakes
G Bm
If you get high in Texarkana, can you still wake up in grace
A Bm G A Bm
That's Mom in the kitchen singing sweet by and by
[Verse 2]
Bm
A fox got the chickens y'all
G
Was too late I never heard 'em squall
A
There's one goldеn pullet left
Bm
She's thе queen of the roost
Bm
Sittin' on her compost pile
G
Lookin' out her one good eye
A Bm
I'm tryin' to hold her but she won't be held
Bm G
She's my softy girl, too soft in an angry world
A Bm
Oh, fat flesh is slaughtered, and hallow wings will break
[Chorus]
G Bm
Thank God forgiveness comes in so many shapes
A Bm
I've been traveling in anger tryin' to ditch the shakes
G Bm
If you get high in Texarkana, can you still wake up in grace
A Em Bm G A Bm
That's Mom in the kitchen singing sweet by and by
[Verse 3]
Bm
My mother's in the ground
G
All ancient wisdom now
A Bm
Hope she's alright with this ugly brown dress
Bm
We sent the old girl on
G
With guitars and gospel songs
A Bm
But there's things a microphone just can't pick up
G
Something like quiet prayer but it comes from everywhere
D G Em Bm A
Something like a loan you know you never can pay back
[Chorus]
G Bm
Thank God forgiveness comes in so many shapes
A Bm
I've been traveling in anger tryin' to ditch the shakes
G Bm
If you die in Texarkana, you still wake up in grace
G A Bm
That's Mom in the kitchen singing sweet by and by
G A D Bm
That's Mom in the kitchen singing sweet by and by
[Outro]
Bm
Chickens in the backyard
G
Preserves in mason jars
A Bm
Dry county dust has got me feelin' kinda low
Understanding the Chords
First, familiarize yourself with the chords used throughout the song:
Bm: This minor chord sets a somber and introspective tone, reflecting
the song's themes of reflection and melancholy.
G: Offers a brighter, major contrast to Bm, adding a sense of hope or change.
A: Another major chord that, following Bm and G, provides a sense of
resolution or forward motion.
Em: Used less frequently, it deepens the song's emotional palette, adding
a layer of wistfulness.
D: Appears in key moments to lift the melody, often signaling a transition
or an emotional peak.
Practice the Chord Transitions
Practicing the transitions between these chords is crucial. Start slowly,
focusing on smooth movements and clean sound. The progression from
Bm to G to A is the backbone of the song, encapsulating its emotional journey.
Feel the Rhythm and Melody
The strumming pattern and rhythm are just as important as the chords themselves.
They convey the song's heart and pacing. For "Dry County Dust," a steady,
reflective rhythm that mirrors the storytelling will serve you well. Listen to the song
multiple times to internalize its rhythm and how the chords change with the lyrics.
Memorizing the Structure
Divide the song into sections (Intro, Verses, Chorus, Outro) and memorize one
section at a time. Here's a simplified breakdown:
Intro: The gentle introduction sets the emotional tone. Bm, G, A, G, Bm.
Verses: Narrate the story with a focus on the Bm chord, moving through G
and A for narrative emphasis.
Chorus: This is the emotional climax of the song. The progression here (G, Bm, A)
is crucial for conveying the song's message of forgiveness and redemption.
Outro: Often mirrors the intro or a verse, bringing the song to a reflective close.
Playing Without Looking
Once you have the chords, transitions, and structure down, practice playing without
looking at your hands. This will help you internalize the song and focus more on
the emotional expression rather than the technical execution.
Sing Along
If you're comfortable, try singing the lyrics as you play. This can help you remember
the chord changes and solidify the song's structure in your memory. Plus, it deepens
your connection to the song, making your performance more heartfelt.
Daily Practice
Consistency is key. Even just 15-30 minutes a day can significantly improve your
muscle memory and comfort with the song.
Summary
To play "Dry County Dust" by Carlisle Willi without relying on digital aids:
Memorize the chord shapes and practice transitioning smoothly between them.
Listen to the song to understand the strumming pattern and overall rhythm.
Break the song down into manageable sections and memorize each part.
Practice playing without looking at your hands to internalize the song fully.
Sing along while playing to help memorize the lyrics and chord changes.
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