“Let Her Go” by Passenger is a globally loved song, known for its heartfelt lyrics and simple yet captivating melody. Perfect for beginner guitarists, this track uses a set of easy chords that make it incredibly accessible to learn and play. If you’re looking to expand your guitar repertoire with a song that’s both beautiful and straightforward, “Let Her Go” is an excellent choice. Below, you’ll find the lyrics and chords to get you started, allowing you to play this popular song on your acoustic guitar in no time.
**Verse:**
**Em C**
Staring at the bottom of your glass
**D Bm**
Hoping one day you'll make a dream last
**Em C D D**
But dreams come slow and they go so fast
**Em C**
You see her when you close your eyes
**D Bm**
Maybe one day you'll understand why
**Em C D D**
Everything you touch, surely dies
**Verse:**
**Em C**
Staring at the ceiling in the dark
**D Bm**
Same old empty feeling in your heart
**Em C D D**
'Cause love comes slow and it goes so fast
**Em C**
Well you see her when you fall asleep
**D Bm**
But never to touch and never to keep
**Em C D D**
'Cause you loved her too much and you dive too deep
**Verse:**
**C G**
Well you only need the light when it’s burning low.
**D Em**
Only miss the sun when it starts to snow.
**C G D D**
Only know you love her when you let her go.
**C G**
Only know you’re high when you’re feelin’ low.
**D Em**
Only hate the road when you’re missin’ home.
**C G D D(hold)**
Only know you love her when you let her go. And you let her go.
**Bridge: Em C D D**
Oh oh oh no
And you let her go
**Em C D D**
Oh oh oh no
Well you let her go
**Em C D Bm Em C D Bm**
**Verse:**
**C G**
Well you only need the light when it’s burning low.
**D Em**
Only miss the sun when it starts to snow.
**C G D D**
Only know you love her when you let her go.
**C G**
Only know you’re high when you’re feelin’ low.
**D Em**
Only hate the road when you’re missin’ home.
**C G D D(hold)**
Only know you love her when you let her go. And you let her go.
**Repeat Chorus (one strum per chord first half, a capella second half)**
And you let her go
**End on Em**Simple Strumming Pattern:
For beginners, a simple strumming pattern that works well with “Let Her Go” is Down, Down-Up, Up-Down-Up. You can count this as 1 & 2 & 3 &, where “Down” strums are on beats 1 and 2, and “Up” strums are on the “&” counts. Feel free to adapt this as you get more comfortable. Experiment with a steady down-strum on each beat to start, and then incorporate upstrokes to match the rhythm of the song.
Chord Progression and Song Structure:
The song primarily revolves around a repeating chord progression in the verses and chorus, making it easy to memorize. Notice how the verses build emotional intensity, leading into the reflective chorus. The bridge provides a slight variation before returning to the familiar chorus.
- Verses: Em – C – D – Bm (repeated)
- Chorus: C – G – D – Em (repeated)
- Bridge: Em – C – D – D (repeated)
Understanding this structure will not only help you play the song but also appreciate its musical arrangement.
Tips for Playing ‘Let Her Go’ on Guitar:
- Start Slow: When learning, begin by playing the chords slowly and focus on smooth transitions between them. Speed will come with practice.
- Listen to the Song: Regularly listen to “Let Her Go” to internalize the rhythm and feel of the song. This will help you strum and sing along more naturally.
- Practice Chord Changes: The key to playing this song smoothly is mastering the changes between Em, C, D, Bm, and G chords. Practice these transitions repeatedly.
- Use a Capo (Optional): While the chords provided are in the original key, you can experiment with a capo to change the key and find a comfortable singing range for your voice.
“Let Her Go” is a fantastic song to add to your guitar repertoire. Its accessible chords and poignant lyrics make it a rewarding piece to learn, whether you’re just starting out or looking for a song to play and sing. Grab your guitar, learn these chords, and enjoy playing this timeless hit!
