Play "While My Guitar Gently Weeps" by The Beatles On Acoustic Guitar!

In this lesson, we'll learn how to play While My Guitar Gently Weeps by The Beatles. George Harrison really outdid himself with this one! It’s one of my favorite songs and, in my opinion, one of the greatest ever written.

We look at an acoustic demo version in the key of Dm (by chords) or Gm (harmonically). This is different from The Beatles version. To play this one, you need to tune to standard tuning and put your capo on the fifth fret. We'll explore a few different versions and fingerings to make things a bit easier. If you like, you can check out the lesson on The Beatles While Album version, which is a good option for jamming. :)

🤔Did you know? Eric Clapton plays lead in the original White Album recording!

While My Guitar Gently Weeps by The Beatles: Chord Progressions

The chord progressions don’t change too much throughout While My Guitar Gently Weeps, but there are a few unavoidable barre chords. While some fingerings may feel a bit awkward at first, it's easier in this context to use the alternative fingerings than the traditional ones.

You start with a Dm variation. To play it, make sure your finger 3 is on string 2 and get your little finger involved! This fingering makes the chord changes easier. The second chord is still a Dm, but you play it over a C bass.

You'll come across a Bb barre chord played with the A Major shape. There's no way of getting around it, so practice it alone if necessary. The main chord sequence isn't particularly difficult - it's the other techniques and embellishments that make the tune so special! Once you get the chords and fingerings all down, start incorporating strumming patterns.

Strumming Pattern

The easiest strumming pattern that works is the Old Faithful strumming pattern with accents on beats 1 and 4. Once you're comfortable with that, you can pick out individual notes during your up strums.

At some point, you might have to break your strumming pattern to incorporate some fingerpicking. When you do, keep your strumming hand moving consistently - this is one of the tricks that'll help you pick out notes consistently and fluidly as you strum.

Don't be in a hurry to fancy it up! Keep things simple and slowly introduce ornaments and variations as you gain confidence. Be patient - you get a beautiful acoustic version when it all comes together. :)

🎶 Want chords, tabs, and lyrics to follow along with this beautiful song? Check out JustinGuitar Tabs!