[Intro]
C G F
[Verse 1]
C
Strong, trying to make 'em all think I’m strong
G F
Yeah, the face I keep putting on says I ain't tired
F
But these tear-stained eyes ain't lying
C
’Cause hard, nobody told me life could be so hard
G F
A weary soul with a worn out heart that's barely beating
Dm7
But every time I get that feeling
[Chorus]
C
I hit my knees with my hands held high
G F
Saying, "Dear Lord, Jesus, you know I can't do this on my own
F
I can't do this on my own"
C
Lord knows I've tried but I'm good at falling down
G
Thank God you're good at picking me up off the ground
F
The world's gonna try to break me
Dm7
But I know the one who makes me
C F
Strong
[Verse 2]
C
Strong, like my daddy always told me so
G F
There’s a place you can always go when you got nothing
F
And then he handed me the one thing
C
That’s strong, doesn't matter how old it gets
G F
There’s power in the words in red in this old Bible
Dm7
And when I'm desperate for revival
[Chorus]
C
I hit my knees with my hands held high
G F
Saying, "Dear Lord, Jesus, you know I can't do this on my own
F
I can't do this on my own"
C
Lord knows I’ve tried but I'm good at falling down
C G
Thank God you're good at picking me up off the ground
F
The world's gonna try to break me
Dm
But I know the one who makes me
C
Strong
G F
Oh-oh, strong
[Bridge]
Am
I'm strong when I got nothing
G
I'm strong even when I'm weak
C
'Cause the strong arms of my Savior
F
Are holding on to me
[Chorus]
C
I hit my knees with my hands held high
G F
Saying, "Dear Lord, Jesus, you know I can't do this on my own
F
I can't do this on my own"
C
Lord knows I've tried but I'm good at falling down
G
Thank God you're good at picking me up off the ground
F
The world's gonna try to break me
Dm7
But I know the one who makes me
C
Strong
G F
But You make me strong
[Outro]
Dm7
Oh, this world ain't gonna break me
F
'Cause I know the one who makes me
C
Strong
How to play "Strong" on guitar
Playing Style: This song features a moving and emotional melody using chords
C, G, F, and Dm7. The key to this song is the emotional delivery through both
strumming and vocal expression.
Intro:
- Start with a soft strumming pattern in C, transitioning to G and F. This sets
the tone of the song. Use a pattern like down-down-up-up-down-up to bring
out the melody.
Verse:
- Maintain a gentle strumming pattern. When moving from C to G and then F,
ensure the transitions are smooth to reflect the song's emotional tone.
- In the verses, pay attention to the lyrical delivery. Strum lightly to
allow the vocals to stand out, especially during the more poignant lines.
Chorus:
- The chorus raises the emotional impact. Increase the intensity of your
strumming to match the lyrics' escalating emotional plea.
- Use the full strumming pattern here to bring a sense of urgency and
emphasis to the lyrics, especially on lines like "Dear Lord, Jesus, you
know I can't do this on my own."
Bridge:
- For the bridge, switch to Am and emphasize the emotional depth with a
more pronounced strumming pattern. This section reflects internal strength
and should be played with a sense of resolve and power.
Common Mistakes:
- Not varying the strumming dynamics between the verses and chorus can make
the song feel flat. Adjust your strumming intensity to match the emotional
flow of the lyrics.
- Rushing the tempo, especially in the emotionally charged parts. Keep your
rhythm steady and aligned with the lyrical delivery.
General Tips:
- Regularly check your tuning, especially when playing in a live setting or
during lengthy practice sessions.
- Practice the chord transitions, particularly from C to F and including Dm7,
to ensure they are fluid and do not interrupt the song's emotional impact.
- Listen to the original track to understand the dynamics and phrasing, helping
you better express the song's emotional content.
Lyrics Meaning:
"Strong" explores themes of resilience and reliance on faith during challenging
times. It speaks to the struggle of appearing strong on the outside while
dealing with internal battles. The lyrics emphasize turning to spiritual strength
when personal strength falters, reflecting a journey of spiritual and emotional
growth through hardships.
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