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Key
G Major
Difficulty
Beginner
Tuning
G-D-A-E
Chords
G · D · Am · C
One of the most covered songs in music history, and a perfect first song for any guitarist. Four chords, a gentle strum, and a melody that everyone knows.
Strumming Pattern (4/4 Time)
↓↓↑↑↓↑
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Tip: Keep the strumming hand moving in a steady down-up motion, even when you skip a strum. This keeps your rhythm locked.
How to play
Step-by-Step Guide
1
Learn the four chords
You need G, D, Am, and C. These are the four most common open chords in guitar — master these and hundreds of songs open up.
2
Get the rhythm
This song has a slow, steady 4/4 feel. Strum down on beats 1 and 2, then down-up-down-up on beats 3 and 4. Keep it relaxed and gentle.
3
Learn the two-bar pattern
The verse repeats: G, D, Am then G, D, C. Two bars each. Play through this progression until it feels automatic.
4
Sing along
The melody is simple and stays within a narrow range. Start by humming, then add the words once your strumming is steady.
Lyrics & Chords
Full Song — Mandolin Version
Verse 1
G D Am
Mama, take this badge off of me
G D C
I can’t use it anymore
G D Am
It’s gettin’ dark, too dark to see
G D C
I feel I’m knockin’ on heaven’s door
Chorus
G D Am
Knock, knock, knockin’ on heaven’s door
G D C
Knock, knock, knockin’ on heaven’s door
G D Am
Knock, knock, knockin’ on heaven’s door
G D C
Knock, knock, knockin’ on heaven’s door
Verse 2
G D Am
Mama, put my guns in the ground
G D C
I can’t shoot them anymore
G D Am
That long black cloud is comin’ down
G D C
I feel I’m knockin’ on heaven’s door
Practice tip: Focus on making clean chord changes. The G to D switch is smooth if you keep your ring finger as an anchor. Practice the two-bar progression at half speed until it clicks.