Cmtap to play
Key
Cm Major
Difficulty
Beginner
Harp Key
C Diatonic
Chords
Cm
Aretha Franklin’s Grammy-winning hit rides a single Cm chord with raw vocal power. One of the greatest one-chord songs ever recorded.
Strumming Pattern (4/4 Time)
↓↓↑↓↑
12345
Tip: Use a funk-style rhythm with palm muting. The groove comes from your right hand, not chord changes.
How to play
Step-by-Step Guide
1
Learn the Cm chord
You need Cm — a barre chord at the 3rd fret. Alternatively, use Cm open position or capo 3 with Am shape.
2
Lock into the groove
This is a funk/soul rhythm. Palm mute on beats 1 and 3, open strum on 2 and 4. Keep it tight and punchy.
3
Add vocal attitude
Aretha’s delivery makes this song. Sing with conviction and let the single chord build intensity through dynamics.
Lyrics & Chords
Full Song
Verse 1
Cm
Chain chain chain, chain chain chain,
Cm
Chain chain chain, chain of fools.
Cm
For five long years I thought you were my man,
Cm
But I found out, I’m just a link in your chain.
Verse 2
Cm
You got me where you want me, I ain’t nothing but your fool,
Cm
You treated me mean, oh you treated me cruel.
Cm
Chain chain chain, chain of fools.