[Intro]
C F C F C G
C F C F C G C
[Verse 1]
C
From both sides of the track
F C
Out here in Nashville, Tennessee
F C
They ain't rolling out red carpets
G
For a sinning man like me
C
But if they did I'd probably walk 'em
F C
Through them pearly gates of Hell
F C
I'd meet the devil at the crossroads
G C
Shake his hand and wish him well
[Chorus]
F G
And there's smoke on the water
F G
Yeah, there's fire on the sun
F G
If this river ain't made of whiskey
C
Then there ain't no bullets in this smokin' gun
[Post-Chorus]
C
Load it up
[Instrumental Break]
C F C F C G C
[Verse 2]
C
I've always been a prayin' man
F C
And I'll be one 'til I'm gone
F C
But there ain't a prayer that strong enough
G
To right me from my wrongs
C F C
So I'll just sit here and I'll raise a glass to the men I could have been
F C G C
And thank the good Lord up above ah that I ain't none of them
[Chorus]
F G
And there's smoke on the water
F G
Yeah, there's fire on the sun
F G
If this river ain't made of whiskey
C
Then there ain't no bullets in this smokin' gun
[Fiddle & Guitar Solos]
C F C F C G
C F C F C G C
[Chorus]
F G
And there's smoke on the water
F G
Yeah, there's fire on the sun
F G
If this river ain't made of whiskey
G
Then there ain't no bullets in this smokin'
G
Call my bluff and I'm still hoping
C
Ain't no bullets in this smokin' gun
[Outro]
C F C F C G
C F C F C G
C F C F C G
C F C F C G
C F C F C G
C F C F C G C
How to play "Smokin' Gun" by Ernest on guitar
This song features a classic country rock progression that revolves around
the chords C, F, and G. The structure and rhythm are reminiscent of
traditional outlaw country music, evoking a gritty, raw feel.
Chords used: C, F, G
Playing Style:
- Begin with a firm strumming pattern in the intro, alternating between C
and F, and ending with G. This establishes the song's bold and assertive
tone.
- The verses should maintain a steady rhythm, with emphasis on the downbeat
to drive the narrative forward. Strumming should be strong but not
overpowering, allowing the lyrics to stand out.
Common Mistakes:
- Not cleanly switching between the F and C chords, which can disrupt the
song's rhythmic flow. Practice these transitions to ensure they are smooth
and seamless.
- Overstrumming during the G chord, which can overshadow the vocals. Keep
the strumming balanced to support rather than dominate the song.
Transitions:
- The chorus shifts to a more dynamic strumming pattern as it builds on
the imagery of "smoke on the water" and "fire on the sun." This part of
the song should feel more intense and climactic.
Lyrics meaning:
"Smokin' Gun" uses vivid imagery to convey themes of fate, personal
struggle, and inevitability. The metaphor of a smoking gun that may or
may not have bullets symbolizes the unpredictability and often harsh
realities of life, especially for those living on the edge.
Remember:
- Make sure your guitar's tuning is accurate, particularly when playing
the F chord, as it can easily sound off if not properly tuned.
- Emphasize the storytelling aspect of the song through dynamic playing,
adjusting your strumming intensity to match the narrative peaks and
valleys, enhancing the overall emotional impact of the performance.
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