Hesitation Blues guitar chords
A 1915 ragtime blues with a chord cycle that teaches you the circle of fifths by ear.
At a glance
- Key G
- Time 4/4
- Level Improver
- Chords G, C, D, E7, A7
Why this song is worth learning
A jazz-age blues with a relaxed swing feel and several dominant chords. The groove depends on the space between strums, so it is a good rhythm step up.
The chords, as shapes
| Chord | Frets (low E to high e) |
|---|---|
| G | 3 2 0 0 0 3 |
| C | x 3 2 0 1 0 |
| D | x x 0 2 3 2 |
| E7 | 0 2 0 1 0 0 |
| A7 | x 0 2 0 2 0 |
x means do not play that string, 0 means play it open. Tap any shape on the page to hear it.
Play along
Press play. The track counts you in, clicks the beat and lights up the chord you should be holding. Drop the tempo while you are learning and raise it once you can get through without stopping.
Chord order
| Verse | G | G | C | C | G | G | D | D |
|---|---|
| Chorus | G | E7 | A7 | D | G | C | G | D |
Each group is one bar. Count 4 beats per bar.
Strumming pattern
D - DU - D - DU (swing)
D is a down-strum and U is an up-strum. If the pattern feels like too much at first, play one down-strum per bar until the chord changes are comfortable, then add the rest.
How to learn it
- Learn G, C and D, then E7 and A7.
- Play the swing pattern D - DU - D - DU on G.
- Practise the change from D back to G, which closes many phrases.
- Play at 100 beats per minute, and aim for a relaxed swing.
Tips that matter
- Leave space. The gaps in the pattern are part of the swing, so keep them open.
- Stay loose. A relaxed hand makes the swing feel natural.
Questions about Hesitation Blues
What chords are in Hesitation Blues?
G, C, D, E7 and A7, all in the key of G major.
What time signature is Hesitation Blues in?
4/4, with four beats per bar. It is rated Improver.
How fast should I practise it?
The play-along is set to 100 beats per minute. Start slower while you learn the changes, then raise the tempo in small steps once you can play through without stopping.
Is Hesitation Blues free to learn and share?
Yes. Published in 1915 and in the public domain. The arrangement on this page is Fretwork's own.