Highway Boys chords
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INTRO:
F C
F C
F C Am G C
OUTRO:
F C
Highway boys on the road tonight
F C
Got a gig out at the Ryman
F C
Finally learned the hard way
Am G C C
That all good things take time, friend
F C
I heard they'll pay a lost soul
F C
To sing his songs true
F C
That make a southern boy cry or
Am G C
Turn a northeast man confused
VERSE:
F C
And I awoke with a fever
F C
Sweating oceans again
F C
There's mirrors in hotel rooms
Am G C C
But I do not recognize them
F C F C
Maybe it's the feeling that I, get in my sleep
F C
That all the memories in my mind
Am G C C
Are only mine to keep
CHORUS:
F C G Am
I wanna ride that K-10 to way back when
F C G Am
Sleep next to the river, hear it rushing again
F C G Am
Get my no good soul back to wherе it belongs
F C G Am
And do my best to keep truth in songs
F C
Do my best to keep truth in songs
INSTRUMENTAL:
F C
F C
F C Am G C
VERSE:
F C F C
And all of my old friеnds miss having me around
F C
But, highways work both ways
Am G C C
And I can't stand the liars in town
F C
If you need me you can find me
F C
Slightly out of control
F C
'Cause Highway boys don't rest
Am G C C
And don't hang hats 'til their home
VERSE:
F C
Highway boys on the road tonight
F C
Got a gig out at the Ryman
F C
They finally found out the hard way
Am G C
That this sound I got is mine man
BREAK:
F C
So, if you need me call
F C
If you're in love, fall
F C Am G C
Just know that highway boys don't stick around at all
CHORUS:
F C G Am
I wanna ride that K-10 to way back when
F C G Am
Sleep next to the river, hear it rushing again
F C G Am
Get my no good soul back to wherе it belongs
F C G Am
And do my best to keep truth in songs
F C
And do my best to keep truth in songs
INSTRUMENTAL:
F C
F C
F C Am G C
OUTRO:
F C
Highway boys on the road tonight
F C
Got a gig out at the Ryman
F C
They finally found out the hard way
Am G C
That this sound I got is mine man
Intro, Verse, and Outro Progressions:
The song starts and often returns to a foundational progression of F and C, creating
a warm and inviting atmosphere that immediately sets the tone for the story about
to unfold. In the intro and between verses, this progression establishes a sense
of anticipation and forward movement, much like the highway travels the song depicts.
During the verses, the progression extends to include Am and G, adding depth
and a slight tension that reflects the lyrical themes of introspection and the complexities
of the traveler's life. Pay special attention to the transition from F to C and then
to the Am and G. This movement should feel like a journey in itself, mirroring
the "Highway boys on the road tonight" narrative.
Chorus Dynamics:
The chorus introduces a new progression: F, C, G, Am. This sequence elevates
the song's energy, reflecting the yearning for a return to simpler times and the desire
to "ride that K-10 to way back when." The inclusion of the G chord here opens up
the song, providing a musical lift that contrasts with the more grounded verses.
It's crucial to let each chord resonate, allowing the emotional
weight of the lyrics to be felt fully.
Instrumental Sections:
Instrumental sections follow the same chord progressions as the intro and verses,
serving as reflective pauses where the instrumental melody can echo the song's
themes without words. These moments should be played thoughtfully,
with attention to the dynamics and the story you're helping
to tell through the guitar.
Expressive Techniques:
- Strumming should be varied throughout the song to match the emotional intensity
of each section. The verses might call for a softer, more introspective strumming
pattern, while the chorus and instrumental sections can be more robust and open.
- Pay attention to the lyrical content as you play, especially in the verses and chorus.
Your playing should support and enhance the storytelling. For instance, the line
"Highway boys don't rest" might be accompanied by a slight increase in strumming
intensity, suggesting the relentless nature of the road.
- The transition between chords, especially where the progression changes,
should be smooth and seamless, avoiding any disruption in the song's narrative flow.