Let’s learn how to play a simplified version of Cocaine by Eric Clapton on the guitar. This easy tutorial is perfect for beginners practicing their Power Chords!
💡 Cocaine was written by JJ Cale and covered by Eric Clapton - Clapton's version is probably the one you recognize.
The chord progression is more or less authentic, but this song has many other, excellent guitar layers, including a few incredible solos. We're talking about Eric Clapton, right? He's one of the greatest Rock and Blues guitarists ever. :) I’ll need to do another lesson with all the details!
Our goal is to learn the power chords in Cocaine and practice sliding them up and down the guitar neck. We’ll also check out the lick that lands between the power chords and adds a little something to the sound. ;)
Let’s get stuck in.
For the main riff, we only need two power chords: D5 and E5! The root notes are on the fifth string - how about you figure out how to play it? ;) As for the riff between those chords, it’s pretty simple.
Check out the video lesson for a slow demo with the count, or head to JustinGuitarTABS for full TAB. :)
🚨 Need a power-chord refresher? Check out my Ultimate Guide to Power Chords for Beginners!
In the chorus, we’ll need a couple of other chords: C5 and B5. The progression is E5, D5, C5, and B5. We use the same chord shape for the four chords and slide it up and down the guitar - no need to jump strings here.
The first three chords are all pushed, and we strum the B5 once before muting the strings for the rest of the bar.
🎸 JJ Cale Version: The original version is in a different key from Clapton's cover. Harmonically, the chords in JJ Cale's Cocaine are C#5, B5, A5, G#5, but I think he tuned his guitar down one semitone and is using D5, C5, B♭5, and A5 grips.
Since we officially only strum once on the D5 in the main riff, it can sound a little sparse. So it’s a good idea to add some extra strums on the D. Even adding one downstrum on beat 4 can make a difference.
If you’re just starting with power chords, it’s key you maintain the chord shape as you slide it. When you want to change, relax the fingers, lift them slightly, then move it.
Don’t keep pushing down as you slide! This will hurt your fingers and sound strange. Relaxing the fingers lets you move the chord anywhere on the neck really easily. :)
Have loads of fun with this simplified version of Cocaine! If you want to take it further, try figuring out some of the other guitar parts using this as a framework. Laters! :)
Check out the original
