The Ring of Fire, a classic song written by June Carter Cash and Merle Kilgore, was made famous by Johnny Cash in 1963. The song's distinctive melody and lyrics have captivated audiences for decades, and its chord progression is a key element of its enduring appeal. To play the Ring of Fire chords, you'll need to know the following chords: G, C, D, Em, and Am.
Chord Progression
The chord progression for the Ring of Fire is relatively simple, making it accessible to guitarists of all skill levels. The verse progression is: G - G7 - C - C7, while the chorus progression is: G - D - Em - C - G. The use of the seventh chords (G7 and C7) adds a touch of melancholy to the song, fitting for its themes of love and heartache.
Verse Chords
The verse chords are played in a slow, arpeggiated pattern, with each chord being played for two measures. The G and G7 chords are played with a strong emphasis on the downbeat, while the C and C7 chords are played with a slightly more subdued tone. The use of the barre chord shape for the G and C chords allows for a smooth transition between the chords.
| Chord | Fingering |
|---|---|
| G | 320003 |
| G7 | 320001 |
| C | 032010 |
| C7 | 032013 |
Chorus Chords
The chorus chords are played in a more driving rhythm, with each chord being played for one measure. The G and D chords are played with a strong emphasis on the downbeat, while the Em and C chords are played with a slightly more subdued tone. The use of the D major chord adds a sense of tension to the chorus, which is later resolved with the return to the G chord.
| Chord | Fingering |
|---|---|
| G | 320003 |
| D | 000232 |
| Em | 022030 |
| C | 032010 |
Performance Tips
To play the Ring of Fire like a pro, focus on developing a strong, consistent strumming pattern. Use a down-up-down-up pattern for the verse, and a down-down-up-down-up pattern for the chorus. Experiment with different strumming dynamics to add expression and feeling to your performance.
Strumming Patterns
The strumming pattern for the Ring of Fire is a key element of its distinctive sound. Try using a combination of downstrokes and upstrokes to create a sense of forward motion. For the verse, use a slow, arpeggiated pattern that emphasizes the downbeat. For the chorus, use a more driving rhythm that emphasizes the downbeat and the “and” of beat 2.
- Down-up-down-up (verse)
- Down-down-up-down-up (chorus)
What’s the best way to play the G7 chord?
+To play the G7 chord, try using a barre chord shape. Place your index finger across the third fret, and your middle finger on the third fret of the fifth string. This will give you a clean, crisp sound that’s perfect for the Ring of Fire.
How can I add more expression to my performance?
+To add more expression to your performance, try experimenting with different strumming dynamics. Use a combination of downstrokes and upstrokes to create a sense of forward motion, and emphasize the downbeat to give your chords a sense of pulse.
