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Key
Am Major
Difficulty
Beginner
Capo
None
Chords
Am · C · G
Dolly Parton’s desperate plea is one of the greatest country songs ever written. The driving rhythm and emotional intensity make it unforgettable on acoustic guitar.
Strumming Pattern (4/4 Time)
↓↓↑↑↓↑
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Tip: The intro uses a fingerpicking pattern on Am. Alternate between the bass note (A string) and the top three strings for that classic country sound.
How to play
Step-by-Step Guide
1
Learn the three chords
You need Am, C, and G. The whole song uses just these three in a minor key.
2
Get the fingerpicking intro
The iconic intro alternates bass notes and treble strings on the Am chord. Start slow — this riff is the song’s identity.
3
Learn the progression
Chorus: Am-C-G-Am-G-Am. Verse: Am-C-G-Am. The changes flow naturally once you get the feel.
4
Build the intensity
Each chorus should be slightly more desperate than the last. Use dynamics to tell the story — soft plea to urgent begging.
Lyrics & Chords
Full Song — Guitar Version
Chorus
Am C G Am
Jolene, Jolene, Jolene, Jolene
G Am
I’m begging of you, please don’t take my man
Am C G Am
Jolene, Jolene, Jolene, Jolene
G Am
Please don’t take him just because you can
Verse 1
Am C
Your beauty is beyond compare
G Am
With flaming locks of auburn hair
G Am
With ivory skin and eyes of emerald green
Am C
Your smile is like a breath of spring
G Am
Your voice is soft like summer rain
G Am
And I cannot compete with you, Jolene
Practice tip: The emotional intensity of this song comes from the lyrics, not from playing louder. Practice singing it with conviction while keeping your guitar part steady and controlled.